Having a place where you can store your vehicles is always a nice addition to any house. However, if adding a garage is beyond your budget, the next best option is to put up a car port.
A carport, although daunting, is actually a fairly straightforward DIY woodworking project. You can have one set up in weeks provided that you have the right tools, materials, and a decent woodworking plan.
Materials, Tools, and Other Considerations
First of all, you have to understand that a carport is considered as a separate structure. As such, you may have to secure a building permit from your local government first before taking on this project. To get one, you must meet all of the state’s requirements which includes submitting a copy of your woodworking plan.
If a permit is no longer a problem, you can start on purchasing materials. Use pressure-treated lumber for the frame as it is more durable than other types of wood and is highly customizable in the long run.
For tools, you will need a table saw, a hand saw, hammers, metal plates for the joints, and a drill. As for the roof, you have the option to install sheet metal or shingles as both are viable options.
Preparation and Cutting Guide
Assuming that you have cleared an area for your carport, you can then start cutting your materials. Start with six heavy duty timber posts that will stand 9 feet high from the ground. If your design is meant for two vehicles, increase the number of posts up to nine.
You will also need to cut beams to turn 3 of your posts into a wall. They should be long enough to connect the posts to one another at the top. You will then cut 2 more of these posts (or 4 for double carports) to complete the frame.
As for the roof, you will need to cut several 2x4x10 beams for the rafters and as well as no less than 10 4×8 plywood sheets. For the roof’s frame, you will need 4 short beams with a 45-degree angle cut on one side and a long beam to connect them at the top.
Building and Finishing
Lay all the posts on the ground and secure them using quick-drying cement. Once positioned, you will then connect the posts with the beams.
After building the port’s basic frame, you can then start installing the rafters and then the attaching the plywood boards on top of them. It is important that, as you lay the plywood, you seal any seam that will form between the boards to make your frame waterproof.
After completing the rafters, you can then start assembling the roof frame. Start with the 4 short beams to form a triangular shape before attaching the topmost beam. Once done, you can then attach the roofing materials on the frame.
You can enforce the joints with metal plates to make your carport sturdier. If you are satisfied with your work, you can then paint or stain the frame to give some color to the structure.
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