Decorating a carport: our advice
Outdoor design is changing fast. Let's explore in detail our top tips for cladding your carport, from material selection to customisation, highlighting the importance of durability, corrosion resistance and ease of maintenance. Find out how to choose the right cladding for your specific needs in terms of protection and practicality. Turn a utility carport into a practical and attractive new space in your home, and make the most of the structure's integration into your outdoor environment.
Aluminium: the leading material for this enclosure
Renowned for its strength and versatility, it is ideal for use as a carport. It combines durability and aesthetics, making it an ideal solution for building a shelter to protect your car. It is highly resistant to corrosion, a major advantage for structures exposed to the elements.
- Modern, sleek design : the modern, sleek look of this metal allows it to blend harmoniously with a variety of exterior design styles, from contemporary to traditional. Its flexibility means you can choose from a wide range of designs and options to personalise your carport to suit your tastes and specific needs.
- Durability and corrosion resistance: when it comes to protection, aluminium doesn't just cover your car. It acts as a durable bulwark against the elements, thanks to its strength and waterproofing properties. This is the preferred option if you're concerned about the longevity of your construction.
- Easy to maintain: unlike wood, this type of shelter requires very little maintenance, simply cleaning with soapy water. This type of shelter retains its shine and finish, so you can be sure that your investment remains attractive and functional.
- Easy installation: an aluminium carport can be installed as part of a renovation or new build. Its light weight makes it easy to handle and assemble, so installation is less laborious.
Its design aspect is not limited to its appearance. In fact, this material allows the integration of additional features to improve the protection and safety of the carport. These include
- LED lighting systems ;
- locking solutions
- cladding;
- special shapes: single carport, double carport, motorhome carport;
- colours that blend in with the decor or stand out completely to create a contrast with your house.
In making this choice, you're opting for a balance between aesthetics, functionality and durability, while offering made-to-measure customisation.
What are the steps involved in cladding a carport?
Building a shelter requires a methodical, multi-stage approach.
Step 1: Preparing the existing structure in your garden
The aim of this phase is to ensure the integrity and watertightness of the roof and its supports. First, carry out a thorough inspection to identify any existing damage or problems. Then carry out any necessary repairs immediately, to ensure a solid base for future modifications.
Step 2: Choosing the type of roofing
For your carport project, start by choosing the roof design and infill, with different options for controlling the light under your shelter.
- Polycarbonate: our carports with fixed or curved roofs are fitted with a polycarbonate infill, offering protection while allowing light to pass through.
- Blackout panels : also used for flat or curved roofs.
- Glass: the glazed roof is available on the lean-to carport model.
Stage 3: Choosing options and equipment for the front of the building
If you want to convert your carport into a semi-enclosed carport to improve its protective effect, or simply add decorative elements to limit the visual impact, you can :
- Choose a carport model that backs onto the front of your house, in which case one side of your carport will already be enclosed;
- Add fixed privacy screens to one or more of the fronts of your carport;
- Add decorative screens;
- You can also incorporate lighting systems to ensure sufficient visibility under your carport.
Stage 4: Manufacture, work and installation
Do you have the specific skills needed to ensure the strength and durability of your structure over time? If you're not sure, or if you'd rather leave the job to us, call on our AKENA advisers. Our qualified professionals are at your disposal, particularly for more complex materials such as aluminium. Compliance with standards and expert guarantees ensure safety at this stage.
Dimensions and configuration to be taken into account before construction
Check that the structure you choose is perfectly suited to the space available and the dimensions of your car. The layout must be both practical and functional to meet your specific needs and make your daily life easier.
Practical considerations
Depending on your geographical location, make sure you choose adequate protection against local weather conditions:
- rain ;
- snow
- wind
- intense sun.
You should also consider how easy it is to maintain. Some materials, such as aluminium, require little maintenance, while others, such as wood, may require specific treatments.
Aesthetic considerations
The cladding for your carport must blend harmoniously with the appearance of your house and garden. It must match the existing architectural style. So, to make sure your carport fits in well with your surroundings, give some thought beforehand to :
- its colour
- its finish
- its design.
The addition of cladding, partitions or lighting solutions can help to improve visual integration.
Examples of possible models for an alternative to the garage
If you're looking to shelter your car and create extra storage space, a wooden model with built-in shelving might be the best option.
On the other hand, if you prefer a low-maintenance, designer carport to protect your car from the elements, aluminium would be more appropriate.
Cladding a carport represents a major trend in the exterior design of our homes. The use of materials such as aluminium combines aesthetics and functionality, while meeting the protection needs of your vehicles. Choosing the right cladding will depend on your specific requirements and your desire to blend in with your existing environment. Create a practical and elegant outdoor space that suits your tastes and reflects your personal style!
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