Written by

Tamatha Hazen

October 23, 2023

Edited by

Kristen Cramer

Fact-checked by

Tara Farmer

Metal carport prices & sizes

Metal carport prices are $8 to $20 per square foot installed, depending on the size. Single-car metal carports cost $2,000 to $4,800 and start at around 12'x 20', while a 20'x20' two-car metal carport costs $3,200 to $8,000.

Carports increase in size to cover more vehicles, with higher prices for longer, wider, and taller carports. Extended lengths up to 40' long and heights up to 16' tall are available to accommodate large boats or RVs. Enclosing the sides or ends increases the cost.

Metal carport prices by material

The metal used to build your carport can also affect the price. Steel or aluminum are the most common materials for metal carports. Prices for these materials vary depending on when and where you purchase them. Sometimes steel will be more expensive, and other times, aluminum will cost more.

• Steel carport kits are the most common because of their strength and durability. Steel can handle heavy snow loads and high winds. The posts are heavier and harder to dent and puncture.

• Aluminum carport kits are less common, except in coastal regions where they are seen more often. Aluminum is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion. These carports require less maintenance and are better for places with salt air and high humidity.

Metal carport prices by type

While the size and material greatly affect the carport price, so does the type. Permanent carports require professional installation, while nearly anyone can install a portable temporary carport on their own. Prefabricated carport kits come in standard sizes, while custom carports are designed to your preferences.

Permanent vs. portable carport

Metal carport costs vary depending on whether you install a permanent or portable structure. Permanent metal carports cost $2,000 to $8,000 for more durable materials, such as steel or aluminum. Attaching these carports permanently to the ground provides better stability and strength.

Portable metal carports and cheaper and easier to install than permanent carports. Costing $400 to $1,200, these carports use lightweight materials, such as aluminum with a fabric roof. The temporary structures are less durable and not suitable for extreme climates.

Prefab vs. custom built carport

When you build a metal carport, you choose between a prefabricated kit or a custom build. A prefabricated kit costs $8 to $18 per square foot installed but is only available in standard sizes and materials. The kits include a metal frame, roofing materials, and all the needed hardware for easy assembly.

A custom metal carport is less common and can run $10 to $20+ per square foot with installation, depending on the features. Custom carports take longer to build but you have the final choice on size, materials, and design.

Metal carport cost factors

The cost to build a carport is $2,000 to $12,000 for a one- or two-car carport, depending on whether you use metal or wood. Metal carports fall on the lower end of that range, with several factors influencing the cost, including:

• Size and complexity –Small carports and prefab units are cheaper and easier to install than large or custom carports with added features.

• Design features – Metal carports with closed side walls are more expensive but provide secure storage or workshop space.

• Delivery and installation –Most manufacturers include delivery and installation on level land in their pricing. Extra costs apply for site preparation and long distance deliveries.

• Materials – Steel or aluminum are the most common materials. Different grades of metal and finishes can impact the price of each.

• Gauge of metal – The thickness or gauge of metal used can impact the cost. Thicker gauges are more durable and expensive.

• Location – Labor and permit costs vary depending on your location.

• Permits – Larger, permanent metal carports require a building permit costing $75 to $300. Smaller, temporary metal carports do not require permitting.

• Extras – Extras such as rain gutters, electrical outlets, added storage, colored screws, and extra support braces for larger carports increase the build costs.

  • Gutter installation costs $5 to $15 per foot.

  • Installing an outdoor electrical outlet costs $150 to $350 per outlet.

  • Custom cabinets cost $400 to $1,200 per linear foot installed for closed storage.

  • Built-in shelving costs $300 to $850 per linear foot for open storage.

  • Colored screws add $0.50 to $1.00 per screw to the carport costs.

  • Added brace supports for larger carports cost $50 to $100 per brace.

Roof styles

The style of roof on your metal carport also affects the cost. Kit manufacturers include a regular roof in their standard price but charge extra for boxed eave and vertical roofs.

• A regular roof is the budget-friendly option with horizontal panels that run from front to back. The simple design is best suited for regions with mild weather and limited snowfall or rainfall.

• A boxed eave roof costs about 10% to 20% more than a regular roof. This style has horizontal panels that mimic the appearance of a shingled roof.

• A vertical roof costs 15% to 30% more than a regular roof. The panels run vertically from the peak of the carport down to the eaves. This style allows water, snow, and debris to slide off the roof easily.

Site preparation

Once you've decided on the location for your carport, you may need to spend another $1,000 to $7,000 or more to prepare the site, depending on the site conditions.

A metal carport must sit on a level surface of compacted soil, gravel, or a concrete slab to provide stability and protection for your vehicles. Costs may include:

• A land survey costs $300 to $900 to clearly mark the property boundaries.

• Land clearing for a carport costs $950 for a ¼ acre or $3,800 for a full acre of light brush.

• Land leveling or regrading the site costs $200 to $1,000, depending on the site conditions.

• A gravel carport drive costs $600 to $1,800 for a 2 car driveway.

• Excavating for a carport costs $1,000 to $2,500 if needed.

• A concrete slab for a carport costs $5 to $10 per square foot.

Metal carport FAQs

Do I need a permit for a metal carport?

Most any construction project that alters your property requires a building permit. However, some jurisdictions consider a small, prefab metal carport as temporary and may not require a permit.

Are metal carports considered permanent structures?

A large metal carport, or one that is securely anchored to the ground with a concrete foundation or other permanent footings, is usually considered a permanent structure.

Can you enclose a metal carport?

Yes, most metal carport kit manufacturers have options for enclosing walls and adding doors to create a workshop or storage area.

Can you extend a metal carport?

Yes, you can extend a metal carport, but it is a complex project. A professional contractor can remove the side paneling and roof to make the extension. Then, they must install new struts and anchoring to secure the carport.

It is far more cost-effective to anticipate future needs and build a larger carport to ensure a modification will not be needed later.

Can you move a metal carport?

Yes, you can move a metal carport that is not attached to your home or anchored to a poured foundation. Metal carports are heavy and bulky. They must be taken apart to move to avoid damage.

Can you paint a metal carport?

You can paint a metal carport to protect it from the elements and update its appearance. However, it is important to prepare the metal surface properly before painting.

To paint a metal carport:

1. Clean the metal surface using a mild detergent and water.

2. Sand the metal to create a rough surface.

3. Apply a primer designed for metal surfaces.

4. Apply 2 to 3 thin coats of paint designed for metal surfaces. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.

Getting estimates from metal carport installers

When getting estimates for a metal carport, follow these recommendations to find the best carport installer near you for your project:

• Get at least 3 estimates with the same carport size and materials to compare.

• Check that the carport installers have licenses, insurance, and surety bonds.

• Read company reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

• Ask if the carport kit includes delivery and installation in the price.

• Request a line-item estimate for a custom metal carport.

• Confirm the warranty included with the metal carport installation.

Questions to ask a metal carport installer

Some helpful questions to ask a metal carport installer include:

• How many years of experience do you have installing metal carports?

• Can I see your references list and photos of past installations?

• Do you recommend a steel carport or an aluminum carport in my area?

• How long will the metal carport construction take?

• Which carport designs are strong enough to withstand storms or snow loads in my area?

• How will you anchor my new carport?

• What are the maintenance requirements for metal carports?

• Does your carport estimate include all materials, labor, delivery, and cleanup fees?

• Do you often incur additional costs on a job like mine?

• Are permits required for a metal carport?

• Do you handle the permit process?