Metal or Wood Carport? The Advantages and Disadvantages to Both

Carports are an excellent way to keep your vehicles and toys safe from inclement weather without building a garage. They can be constructed out of either metal or wood, depending on the preference of the homeowner. When it comes to comparing the two, however, metal carports offer everything that wood carports do – and a whole lot more. These are the advantages of choosing metal carports Charleston, SC construction over wooden ones.

Durability

The durability of metal carports far exceeds wood. Carports made from metal are constructed with galvanized steel that can stand up under high winds and extreme weather conditions. Wood carports are more likely to collapse when put under extreme stress, and because they are flammable, fire is also a concern of wood versus metal construction. Metal carports are also impervious to pests like termites, which are common in the South Carolina region. And they won’t rot or warp. Although some homeowners worry about rust with a metal carport, the finish on galvanized steel carports resists corrosion and is typically guaranteed for a minimum of 20 or more years.

Cost

The cost of building a metal carport pales in comparison to a wood carport. It is cheaper from the start because there is less waste when building. Metal carports come prefabricated, so there is no waste. And the small amount that is left over after construction can be recycled, which is a win-win situation for everyone.

Maintenance

Wood carports require staining or painting every season to keep the wood from rotting. That is a lot of maintenance when you compare it to metal. Also, over time, wood carport shingles will need to be repaired or replaced. A metal carport does not require maintenance, and it will hardly ever need to be repaired or have any parts replaced.

Time Considerations and Assembly

Metal carports are pre-assembled so they are ready to be put together upon delivery. They are precisely pre-cut, so all you have to do is piece them together. Most metal carports can be put together in just a couple of hours, whereas wood carports can require the labor of many days to cut and piece together. Unlike wood carports, metal carports need nothing more than a few nuts and bolts to construct, and they also don’t require an extensive skill level if you plan on doing it yourself.

When you compare metal carports to wood carports, metal wins as being the less expensive, less labor-intensive product, and it needs less maintenance. The one place where metal carports don’t always win is in aesthetics. However, metal carports are just a better fit to withstand the high winds and tumultuous storms of the South Carolina Coast! If you are interested in a metal carport, Ravenel Buildings has a wide variety of sizes and styles to choose from. We are the leading metal carports Charleston, SC builders in the industry. Contact us today to discuss how we can get your car under wraps in no time.

Unique and Creative Uses for Metal Storage Buildings

When you think of metal storage buildings, you probably think of landscape equipment, bikes, and tools. But today’s metal storage buildings aren’t just for storage anymore. There are many other things that a storage building can house. If you are looking for a little extra space to entertain, spread out, or to call yours, these are some unique and creative uses for metal storage buildings that you might not have thought of.

Tiny Home

The newest rage around the country is tiny homes. Have you always wanted a hunting shed out in the wild? Find a little piece of the wilderness to call yours, and use a metal storage building as your hunting lodge. You and the guys don’t need much but a place to share stories, drink beer and sleep. A metal storage shed is all you need to have a home away from home. It provides just enough room and shelter that it is an upgrade from sleeping under the stars.

Looking for a Workout Space?

If you always wanted a workout room in your home, but can’t find the space, then a metal storage building is ideal. Invest in some weights, an elliptical machine, and a treadmill and you have your own personal gym. The best part is that you can escape the kids and house, but you don’t need to go any further than your backyard. And you also don't have to listen to anyone else’s “club music;” it is a gym all your own!

Crafting or Woodworking Space?

If you have always wanted a separate space for your hobbies or crafts, a metal building is a perfect getaway. Whether it is for business or pleasure, you can design a building with all that you need to make your art come alive. And since they can be both heated and cooled, you don't have to wait for the heat to surpass, or the cold to turn to warm, to get outside and engage in what you love most.

A Tiny Petting Zoo

Some farm pets are okay being outdoors, but eventually, they will need shelter. If you have always wanted a farm, but don’t have the room or a barn to house them, don’t bother building one. A metal building is a perfect place to keep your little fur babies warm and cozy whether it is too cold or too hot for them to be outdoors. Create little pens for different types of animals and enjoy your micro-farm!

Pool Room – Man/Woman Cave

Looking for a way to get away from the kids to entertain, but don’t want to hire a sitter? A metal storage building is a great place to keep a pool table, a large screen television, or a wet bar for entertaining. You won’t have to spend money on a sitter and dinner; have the crew at your house and just be right outside.

When you think of metal storage buildings, what comes to mind is usually tools and equipment housing. But they are an excellent way to find your space outside your house, while close enough to be home. Since they are fully customizable, build one to suit your needs just the way you want.

Contact Ravenel Buildings today to discuss how we can get creative and build exactly what you want, together.