Carport or Garage: What Should You Add to Your New Build?
So you’re building a new house. Congratulations! Now comes the fun part where you get to decide how you want everything laid out. One of the big choices people face is whether to add a garage or a carport. Both have their perks and drawbacks, and the right one for you depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how you want to use the space.
Let’s break it down so you can make the best decision for your future home.
Garage: The Classic Choice
A garage gives you full coverage. It protects your car from sun, rain, snow, and even sticky pollen season. If you’re someone who loves extra storage, a garage also doubles as a space for tools, sports gear, and those bins you keep meaning to sort through.
Pros of a garage:
- Total weather protection
- Extra security for your vehicle
- Great for storage or a workshop
- Can increase home value
Cons of a garage:
- More expensive to build
- May require more permits or inspections
- Takes up more space on your lot
- Can become a clutter zone if you’re not careful
Carport: Simple and Versatile
Carports may not be fully enclosed, but they still offer a ton of benefits. They’re much easier on the wallet and can be surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re parking a car, sheltering a motorcycle, or using the space to hang out, a carport is more flexible than most people think.
Pros of a carport:
- Cheaper to build
- Faster to install
- Keeps your car out of the direct sun and rain
- Can double as an outdoor covered patio
Cons of a carport:
- Less protection from wind or snow
- Lower security than a garage
- May not increase resale value as much
- Can leave belongings more exposed
A Peek at My Tiny House Carport Life
When I first bought my tiny house, it was far from move-in ready. I’m talking full gut job. Everything had to be redone, from the floor joists all the way up to the roof. It was a big project, but one that let me customize every inch to fit my life and needs perfectly.
One of the first decisions I made was whether to add a garage or a carport. That choice was easy for me. Not only was a carport more affordable, but it just made more sense for the way I live. I could use it for parking, outdoor projects, or even just enjoying the breeze on a nice day. It offered flexibility that a garage just couldn’t match.
Since I live with a disability, I had a solid ramp added that connects my carport to the side door of my home. It’s been a total game changer, especially on rainy days or when my hands are full of groceries and packages. I can pull in, stay dry, load everything into my trusty little wagon, and head inside with ease.
And it turns out, I’m not the only one who loves the carport. A few dozen neighborhood stray cats have claimed it as their hangout spot. I’ve made them cozy with soft beds, fresh water, and a feeding station, and in return, they’ve become sweet little porch companions who now think they live here—and honestly, I’m perfectly fine with that. If you’d like to help keep their tummies full and tails wagging, you’ll find a donation button on my sidebar for cat food contributions. Every little bit makes a big difference for these furry freeloaders I adore.
To make the carport even more functional, I added a small enclosed room at the back for extra storage. It’s perfect for tucking away tools, garden supplies, and all those seasonal decorations I insist on keeping. It might not be a garage, but it’s everything I need and more, wrapped in charm, convenience, and just the right touch of cat fur.
The Final Word
If you’re stuck choosing between a garage and a carport, think about how you really want to use the space. If you need full protection, storage, or added home value, a garage might be your best bet. But if you’re looking for something budget-friendly, quick to build, and versatile, a carport could be your perfect match.
As someone who has lived both tiny and creatively, I can say firsthand that a well-planned carport can do a whole lot more than just protect your car. It can protect your lifestyle too.
