How to Build a Carport

There are two basic types of carports - free standing and attached to the house. Both types have similar construction methods and can add value and appeal to your home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Post level
• Square
• Post hole digger
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Measuring Tape
• Drill
• Circular Saw
• String line
• Paint brush
• Building materials as per list below.

1. You should first check with any local building codes before you begin this project. It is the responsibility of the builder to ensure compliance and safety in all construction - the author cannot be held responsible due to the variances in the nature of the construction. Then check the site to make sure there are no gas lines, water lines or sewer pipes where you are going to be working. These instructions are for a single carport. Double carports will need additional support. You need some knowledge of construction methods and terms to complete this project.
2. Lay out the carport using the string. Check to ensure it is square by measuring the diagonals. Mark post positions. If attached to the house, lay the positions for the posts along the side facing the wall. If free-standing, lay out the posts on two sides with posts about 9 feet apart.
3. Set the posts. Dig holes for the posts at least 1 foot wide and 1 foot deep - a little larger would be better for free-standing carports. Mix concrete according to manufacturer's instructions and pour into hole. Set a stirrup bracket in center of each concrete pad. Support the bracket with scrap timber laid across the concrete. Check the bracket to ensure it is level. Let concrete set. Cut a 2"x6" notch (rebate) in the top of the posts in which to lay the bearers (the boards which frame out the top). Put the post in the bracket and check to ensure it is vertical using the level. Drill a hole for the carriage bolt and secure the post to the bracket. Using a string line to mark the posts, trim the posts for height. This is when you would allow for pitch for drainage - slope away from the house.
4. Fix bearers and rafters. Measure and cut bearers to length. Drill two holes for bolts to affix to the rebates. Set in rebates and attach with two carriage bolts per post. If attaching to house, affix to the wall at the appropriate height with coach screws or masonary bolts.
   Measure and cut rafters to length. Attach rafters flush with the top of the bearers using joist hangers and galvanized nails. Attach a rafter every 3 feet or so, according to local building code.
5. Attaching the roof. Attach your choice of roofing material to the top of the rafters and bearers using roofing screws fitted with rubber washers. Allow several inches to overhang for rain run-off. Start at the bottom of the slope. Attach on every third "hill" of the corrugation, not the "valley". Be careful not to overtighten. Overlap by at least one corrugation.
6. Finishing off your carport. Fascias give a neat professional appearance. Mitered corners add to the professionalism. Attach fascia boards to the rafters with nails. Paint all wood surfaces of carport. If desired, attach lattice to sides. Also, you may install a gutter and drain for controlled run-off.
7. Materials list:
   * Post Stirrups - _____
   * Posts - _____
   * Bearers - _____
   * Rafters - _____
   * Fascias - _____
   * Concrete Mix - _____
   * Bolts - _____
   * Nails - _____
   * Joist Hangers - _____
   * Sheet Roofing - _____
   * Roofing screws and washers
   * Paint and finish materials