Buying Guide

Metal Garages Buying & Installation Guide

Name: Carport1
Address: US
Telephone: (866) 311-0822
Price range: $$

Everything you need to know about choosing, customizing, and installing your metal garage.

(866) 311-0822

In This Guide

Getting Started

What to Consider When Buying a Metal Garage

Protect from Intense Weather

Understand your local climate first. A metal garage protects your vehicles from weather, UV damage, and theft — and is considered the best among all garage types.

Find the Perfect Location

You need an open space that allows our installation crew and equipment easy access. Make sure the area is clear and level.

Check Local Permits

Check with your local authority or municipality to see if you need a building permit. Make sure your local building codes allow the installation.

Customize Your Build

Make it yours. Choose your dimensions, doors, windows, roof style, and colors. Every garage is built to your specifications.

Pick the right garage for your climate. Carport1 can help.

Roof Options

Metal Garage Roof Styles

The right roof depends on your climate and budget. We offer three styles, each with its own strengths.

Good

Regular Roof Style

The most economical choice. Corrugated ridges run end to end. Works great in areas with less heavy wind or rain. Protects from direct sunlight and UV damage.

Better

Boxed Eave Style

An A-frame design with horizontal roof panels. More affordable than vertical and works best in areas with heavy wind. A great balance of value and performance.

Best

Vertical Roof Style

Our premium A-frame design. Vertical panels allow snow and rain to slide off easily, requiring minimal cleaning. Best for heavy snowfall and rain areas.

Dimensions

Choosing the Right Size

The size depends on your available area, the number and size of your vehicles, and how you plan to use the space.

Width

12ft • 18ft • 20ft • 22ft • 24ft • 26ft • 28ft • 30ft • Clear Spans up to 60ft

A 12ft garage fits a single car. 18ft works for two compacts. 22ft+ suits full-sized vehicles or trucks. Commercial garages typically start at 30ft.

Length

20ft • 25ft • 30ft • 35ft • 40ft • 45ft • 50ft • Custom

A 21ft garage stores a compact car. 41ft is perfect for two cars, an RV, or a truck. Your garage can also store bikes, equipment, and general storage.

Side Height

Custom heights available

Height is measured from the sides, not the roof peak. Make sure your tallest vehicle clears the lowest point with room to spare. More height = more protection and stability.

Materials

Steel Gauge Framing

The gauge refers to the thickness of the steel — the lower the number, the thicker and stronger the frame.

Standard

14-Gauge

2 ½" x 2 ½" diameter

Economical choice
Lower tensile strength
Great for mild climates
Works well for standard garages

Premium

12-Gauge

2 ¼" x 2 ¼" diameter

Thicker & stronger
Higher tensile strength
Best for heavy snow & wind
Required for certified builds

Compliance

Certified vs. Non-Certified Buildings

Most states require metal garages to be inspected and certified by local authorities. Certification means the building was designed by an experienced engineer to withstand heavy wind and snow loads.

Certified buildings use stronger 12-gauge galvanized steel framing with a minimum 80 mph wind rating and 20 lbs/sqft snow load — upgradable to 150 mph wind and 60 lbs/sqft snow.

Some areas don't require certification due to mild weather conditions. Our team can help you determine what's needed in your area.

Customization

Additional Options

Customize your garage with add-ons during or after installation.

Windows

Let natural light in and add style. Standard 30" x 30" windows available, with custom sizes.

Walk-in Door

Access your garage without opening the main panels. Great addition during build or when enclosing a carport.

Insulation

Bubble insulation with R-value 4.3. Protects temperature-sensitive vehicles, prevents condensation, and makes a great workspace.

Panels

Flat steel panels for sides and frames. Enclose your garage fully, add structural support, and protect from weather.

J-Trim

Decorative trim covering panel edges for safety and a clean aesthetic. Especially important in homes with children.

Bows & Trusses

Extra roof and side support for heavy snow and wind areas. Garages 24ft+ include bows; wider builds include trusses.

Anchors

Supplementary support inserted into concrete, asphalt, or ground during installation. Included with every build.

Personalize

17 Colors to Choose From

Barn Red, Black, Burgundy, Cardinal Red, Clay, Earth Brown, EverGreen, King Blue, Merlot, Pebble Beige, Pewter Gray, Quaker Gray, Red, SandStone, Slate Blue, Tan, and White.

Delivery

Installation & Site Prep

Have your site prepared before installation day. This includes getting permits, clearing the area, and leveling the ground. Our crew needs a minimum of 3ft of extra space around the perimeter.

Site Preparation Checklist

Ground is leveled (no more than 3" off level in any direction)
Area cleared of debris, machinery, and tools
Concrete pad fully cured and settled (if applicable)
Complies with local authority guidelines
3ft minimum clearance around the perimeter
Required permits obtained

Once your garage is selected, we'll schedule a delivery date. On installation day, our crew arrives with everything needed. If you need your building certified, let us know before installation so we can prepare the blueprint for your inspector.

Need help with concrete prep? We can recommend trusted contractors in your area.

Investment