The Carport vs. Garage Secret They Don't Want You to Know

"The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra."— Jimmy Johnson

You think you need a garage to protect your car and add value to your home. You're bracing for a massive, expensive construction project that will take weeks. But what if I told you that you could get almost all of the benefits for a fraction of the cost and time? The secret that contractors don't always tell you is that a well-built carport can be a much smarter investment.

People get obsessed with the idea of a fully enclosed garage for security and storage. But let's be honest: most garages are so full of junk that you can't even park a car in them. A carport, on the other hand, is designed for one primary purpose: to protect your vehicle from the elements. It shields your car from damaging sun, rain, and hail, preserving its value at a shockingly lower price point—often 75% less than a garage.

But here's the real secret: you can have the best of both worlds. You can build a carport now and easily convert it into a full garage later. The key is to build it with a proper concrete foundation and use sturdy materials like steel. By designing it with future enclosure in mind, you get the protection you need today without the massive upfront cost. Then, when your budget allows, you can simply frame in the walls and add a garage door. It's a phased approach that is both financially savvy and practical.