Building a Wood Carport

Carports can be a big addition to a person’s home. They are used to protect cars from different types of weather conditions. When building a carport there are special materials and ideas that you want to utilize, this will ensure the carport is built stable and will hold the number of cars needed.

Things You Will Need:

• 4x8 Plywood


• 4x4 Posts


• 2x10 Lumber


• Nails


• Joists


• 2x12 Wood


• Poles


• Cement


• Hammer


• Saw


• Drill

1. Determine the size you will need for you wood carport. If you plan to hold more than one car, of course you measurements will be larger than one that will hold only one.


2. Consider the size of the cars the wood carport will be holding. If you plan to store SUVs and trucks, you will need to consider the height of these automobiles. Take these measurements to allow the adequate space to hold them.


3. Dig your at least 6 holes for the carport poles. The holes should run atleast 12 feet deep. Each one should be at least 2 ft deep. Also you want to make sure they are at least 1 ½ feet in diameter. 


4. Pour concrete down in each hole and then place the poles into them. This will ensure strong winds and other weather conditions will not destroy the port.


5. Take a 4x4 post and place one in each hole. Make sure the post and poles are leveled. Take a board and put it across the top of them. You will begin to make the roof of your carport.


6. Measure 11 ½ inches from the top of the front two posts. Take this measurement by marking the spot on the front post and side. 


7. Take measurements for the outside corner of the back and front poles. You will need to cut about six 2x12. For middle post measure them from the outside to middle post. 


8. Nail the 2x12 wood as the side posts. Make sure all the boards are even. You will need to make sure the boards are fastened on each corner with a bolt, washer and nut. It is best to use a ½ inch auger bit and drill to make the holes.


9. Make sure the length is measured for the outside front and the back. You will need a 2x12 for each length. These will be nailed to the front post on the font of each post and the rear post. 


10. Install the joists. It is best to begin at the front and put them in. Install 16 inch at the center then nail the 2x12 into the 2x10s. It is important to have at least 4 or 5 nails in each board.


11. Use 4x8 plywood for the roof. These are to be used as the top covering of the joists. This will create your roof. You may vary with the materials depending upon what type of roof you plan on installing.