Which Metal RV Carport Do You Need?

RVs are perfect for exploring the open road with total freedom and independence. But what happens to your RV when you return home?

Most residential streets don’t accommodate a full-size RV, and conventional garages tend to be too small. That’s why RV owners across the country rely on metal carports to keep their RVs safe from the elements. 

If you’re in the market for a metal RV carport, it’s imperative to double-check the measurements of your vehicle so you can comfortably store it year-round. With a little preparation, you can find the perfect metal RV carport for your needs.

Different Types of Carports

Ultimately, the price and size of your metal carport are determined by your storage needs. Many households can get by with a single carport, which is only 12 feet wide. You can fit a full-sized RV in a tall single carport, but it might require some white-knuckle maneuvering.

Consider a double metal carport if you have multiple vehicles or simply want more storage space. Double carports range in width from 18 to 24 feet and can be customized to stand as tall as you want. Even if you don’t own a larger vehicle, you can leave room to grow in case you buy an RV, SUV, or minivan in the future.

If you have the space, a triple carport will give you ample storage for multiple vehicles or mixed-use areas. Triple metal RV carports span between 26 and 30 feet, so you can comfortably store an RV with room for a workshop, home office, or even a loft.

Best Carports for Your RV

Even if you already know the dimensions of your RV, it pays to triple-check the measurements before investing in a metal RV carport. You can flip through your owner’s manual and find the official dimensions, or measure it yourself to ensure your new carport is the right proportions.

If your RV has a rooftop AC unit, be sure to include this in your measurement. AC units are often not included in the owner’s manual dimensions. Factor in overhead awnings and any other attachments, as well.

Bear in mind that a metal carport is just a steel roof over your RV. It will offer substantial protection, but you can always enclose the carport to guard against natural disasters and burglary. A fully enclosed metal garage can offer greater safety options, like reinforced doors and alarm systems. 

Expanding your carport can be expensive and complicated. It’s best to overestimate the size of your metal RV carport and leave yourself room to grow. The standard metal carport height is 12 feet, but many people opt for taller structures to have a more flexible range of options.

You can always add a few feet of additional length to your carport to accommodate a wide variety of vehicles, from SUVs to tractors and boats. For reference, the standard RV is 18x40x14 feet. Feel free to use this as your baseline until you get the actual measurements of your RV.

Final Thoughts

The adage “measure twice, cut once” is especially apt for major construction projects. Metal RV carports are no exception. Make sure your metal carport will accommodate your RV with room to spare, including AC units and overhead awnings. 

You can always add more customizations down the road, but the most important thing is to choose an appropriate size. Try to future-proof your metal carport in case you acquire more vehicles or require additional storage in the coming years. When in doubt, reach out to professionals and ask for advice. A qualified metal building company will happily walk you through the process.