Carports: Aluminium vs Steel
Carports are a great addition to any home which can help to protect your car when it isn't in use. If you are considering constructing a new carport on your property you may be wondering if you should opt for one made from steel or aluminium. Below is a brief comparison of the benefits and drawbacks of each material.
Aluminium carports
The advantage of an aluminium carport is that they are much lighter when compared to steel carports. This makes them easier to handle and position in place. Aluminium is also really easy to maintain and care for as it is a rust resistant material and has a very high oxidation tolerance. Over time, you may notice a build up of a chalky, white powder on your aluminium carport. This can be easily removed by scrubbing with a brush and a solution of liquid detergent and warm water. The drawback of investing in an aluminium carport is that it doesn't have the same level of strength as steel and because of this, it may not be the ideal choice if you plan to install a double carport which covers a large area. Aluminium is also more likely to warp and become misshapen during very hot summers.
Steel carports
The advantage of investing in a steel carport for your property is that it is an high strength material which is highly resilient to the effects of high winds and heavy snowfall. Steel is also much less likely to warp in the extreme heat of summer. Steel carports will also easily withstand accidental damaged caused by the bumper of your car. The galvanised steel used to construct carports provides protection against rust. However, if this coating is damaged in any way, it is likely the exposed steel will begin to rust. You should periodically check a steel carport for signs of damage and rust, and reapply the protective coating as needed. The major drawback of using a steel carport is the increased weight, which can make it difficult to manoeuvre the carport into position during installation.
There are a very wide range of different carports available in both steel and aluminium. Each of these materials has their benefits and drawbacks. If you are considering installing a carport on your property, you should contact a professional carport supplier who will be able to offer further help and assistance in finding the right carport for you.