Timber, Metal or Polycarbonate Carport: Which Is Best?

Which Carport Material Is Best?

The best carport material depends on what matters most to you.

If you're looking for the cheapest option, a metal carport might be enough. If you want plenty of natural light underneath, polycarbonate could be worth considering.

But if you want a carport that's built to last, looks great and complements your home, timber is hard to beat.

At a Glance

Timber carports

• Traditional appearance
• Strong and durable
• Wide choice of roof finishes
• Easy to customise
• Available in pressure-treated softwood or oak

Metal carports

• Lower initial cost
• Low maintenance
• Modern, industrial appearance
• Lightweight

Polycarbonate carports

• Lightweight
• Lets natural light through
• Modern appearance
• Less shade and weather protection than a solid roof.

Why Choose a Timber Carport?

Timber carports are a popular choice because they look at home almost anywhere, whether you've got a modern house, a country cottage or a farmhouse.

They're available in pressure-treated softwood or oak and can be built in almost any size or layout. 

You can also add features like:

• A workshop
• A log store
• Secure storage
• Different roof finishes
• Single, double or triple bays.

A solid roof also gives your vehicle proper protection from the weather and keeps it in full shade during the summer.

When Does a Metal Carport Make Sense?

Metal carports are often one of the cheapest options and they're generally quick to install.

They're lightweight, need very little maintenance and usually come with flat, pitched or curved roofs.

They don't offer the same traditional appearance as timber, though, and there are usually fewer options for customisation.

Are Polycarbonate Carports a Good Choice?

Polycarbonate carports are lightweight and let plenty of natural light through the roof.

That can help brighten the area underneath, but it also means your vehicle won't be fully shaded on hot days.

Many homeowners feel timber blends more naturally with their home, especially period properties and rural settings.

Which Carport Material Should You Choose?

The best material depends on what's most important to you.

Choose timber if you want:

• A traditional appearance
• A bespoke design
• A wide choice of roof finishes
• A building that looks like it belongs to your home.

Choose metal if you want:

• A lower initial cost
• A simple, functional structure
• Minimal maintenance.

Choose polycarbonate if you want:

• Plenty of natural light beneath the roof
• A lightweight structure
• A contemporary appearance.

Before you choose a design, it's also worth checking whether you'll need planning permission. Read our guide to planning permission for garages and carports or head to the Planning Portal. If you're building close to a neighbouring property, read our article about building a garage near a boundary.

Design a Timber Carport That Suits Your Home

Every property is different, which is why every Olson Timber Building is made to order.

Whether you're looking for a simple single-bay carport, an oak framed design or a larger design with storage or a workshop, we'll help you create a building that suits your home and the way you use it.

Take a look at our range of timber carports, or get in touch with our team for friendly advice and a bespoke quotation.

Still deciding between a garage and a carport? Compare the pros and cons of a garage and a carport before you choose.