Carport ideas: Stylish spaces for your automobile

Looking for some stylish carport ideas? You've come to the right place. We have the latest design trends to help you decide on an aesthetic that suits your home and budget.

Carport ideas for all UK property types

Carports are a great way to protect your vehicle from the elements. They can also add value to your property. And if you don't have a garage or shed, it makes them perfect as a storage area for all sorts of outdoor equipment, such as gardening tools and patio furniture.

If you're thinking about installing a carport at your home and you're unsure if it will match your property's appearance, then there's no need to worry. Carports can be designed and built in all sorts of materials, such as wood, aluminium, and steel.

They can also be customised to complement both modern and traditional homes.

Benefits of a carport

• Safety from harsh elements such as snow, hail, wind and intense heat

• Cheaper than a garage

• Space effective

• Energy-efficient

• Deterrent from theft or vandalism

• Easy to use

• Extra protection and storage

Now you know the benefits of introducing a carport into your life, let's take a look at some options in our carousel content below.

Wondering how much a carport will set you back? Be sure to check out our carport cost guide for a comprehensive breakdown.

Like what you see? There's more where this came from. Check out Checkatrade's blog for more tips, ideas, how-tos, and inspiration.

1. Carport ideas - tinted polycarbonate roof with metal frame

For a more modern and clean home aesthetic, consider installing a tinted glass design like this one.

We love the curved roof, with the blue-tinted polycarbonate framed between the silver metal latticework both striking and sturdy. This means rainwater runs off easily, and it's protection from any extreme heat. No need to burn yourself on your seatbelt or gear stick!

The metal frame offers extra peace of mind, while the wideset feet leave enough space to manoeuvre in and out of this design.

2. Carport ideas perfect for the UK - a timber carport with a metal roof

This wooden carport boasts a gable roof with a metal finish. The top of the roof extends further out than its structural support, which keeps it protected from the elements and extends the longevity of the design.

The wood is treated with a red stain that matches the hardy red-bricked driveway, and we love the effective simplicity, which looks striking against the modern homes behind it.

3. Carport roof ideas - timber carport with roof shingles

There are various roof options that work well with a carport. The most common options are shed, curved, or gabled.

This roof is a gabled design, with the woodwork fashioned for both structural and aesthetic purposes. The black bitumen roof shingles sit atop the exposed roof battens for a striking design effect, while the flashing and ridges finish off the look.

These homeowners have opted for a wider design that fits two cars and their bins. They've also added two potted plants for extra aesthetic appeal.

4. Carport ideas attached to the house

This sturdy and high-quality carport is secured to its house for a seamless transition from home to vehicle.

This is a particularly good option if you're short on space or lack the right garage layout. The flat roof is finished with durable grey rubber to avoid warping or flooding the structural integrity of the design, while the simple but elegant finish works perfectly with the modern house it's attached to.

Why not hire one of our professionals to help you get the look?

5. Timber frame carport ideas

Timber-framed carports are a popular design trend due to how effortlessly chic they look.

This gorgeous example shows us how easy it is to install a carport in any front garden without limiting the light that enters your home. The hipped roof design uses slate shingles and ridges for a clean finish, while the mosaic tiles tie in the colours and the surrounding landscape nicely.

Shop the look and hire one of our builders to install this design for you today!

6. Carport storage ideas

You don't just need to store your cars in your carport. In fact, their versatility is one of the reasons they're so popular!

These homeowners have opted to keep their firewood clean and dry in their carport. However, you can store various other items that would otherwise clutter your house, such as:

• Car supplies

• Gardening equipment

• Hazardous materials you don't want in the house

• Bikes on a bike rack

• Toys or other only-outdoor items

Just be sure to lock away any valuables in a sturdy storage unit.

7. Practical carport ideas for the front of house

Some of us homeowners don't have a huge amount of space to install a standalone carport, so we have to think about our space and adapt.

That's why this minimal carport is a popular option across the UK.

This freestanding design slots neatly between two buildings. It's practical and it's non-offensive. When people walk up to your house, they won't be seeing an eyesore.

Made of aluminium, which is a very durable metal that's both strong and lightweight, it's also 100% recyclable.

The lean-to roof makes sure rainwater runs off easily, helping to maximise its durability and weatherproofing for up to 25 years. This makes it a very cost-effective construction resistant to corrosion in most environments. Overall, it's a low maintenance option that's easy to install.

If you're tight on space, then it's best you speak to a professional tradesperson - they may be able to come up with a solution to get you your carport!

8. Eco-friendly driveway carport ideas

If you're an eco-friendly homeowner and you've bought an electric car, then one great way to maximise your green credentials is to install a solar-panelled carport roof. This then allows you to charge your electric vehicle while helping the environment.

The good news is solar panels can be installed in any carport roof or canopy, which means it's a no-brainer for those with environmentally friendly cars.

That said, we'd always recommend a shed-roof design that faces west where possible. That way, you maximise the sunlight and ensure you generate enough energy to keep your car moving during cloudier days.

9. Carport flooring ideas

Once you've decided on the perfect carport for your home, it's time to consider the flooring. Starting with a solid concrete base is an excellent option. Remember, your carport floor will need to be strong enough to withstand the weight of your vehicle and the regular wear and tear of moving in and out of the structure.

You may not be able to do anything fancy, but there are ways to jazz up your carport with the floor!

Any driveway material is suitable for a carport. You could opt for a strong concrete surface. Alternatively you could choose tiles, gravel, block paving or even a waterproof resin material.

For more ideas, chat to one of our Checkatrade-approved pros!