Flat Roof, Gable Roof or Hip Roof Carports: Which is Best for You?
When you think of a carport, you need to think about Flat Roof, Gable Roof or Hip Roof Carports: Which is Best for You? What kind of roof do you envision? Do you see a flat roof or to give it its proper name, Skillion Carport. Maybe you are more imaginative and you are thinking Dutch Gable carport, Hip roof carport or Gable carport? All these types of carports are available, but which one is best for you?
It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at each type of carport so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
What is a carport?
A carport is a roofed structure with one, or sometimes two walls, that is typically open at the front and sides. They are often used to provide shelter for vehicles, boats, and other outdoor items. A Patio is a carport with a barbeque and chairs underneath it instead of a vehicle. Carports are generally cheaper and easier to construct than full-fledged garages, so they’re a great option for those on a budget.
The four main types of carports
The four main types of carports are:-
- Skillion Carport or flat roof carports,
- Gable roof carports,
- Dutch Gable Carports and
- Hip roof carports.
Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Flat roof carports, (Skillion Carports)
These are the simplest type of carport. They feature a single rectangular roof supported by posts at either end. Flat roof carports may be slightly more exposed to the elements than the other two types, but they’re also the most economical option. They do not have a flat roof as it must have a small pitch of usually 2 degrees to allow the rain to run off into the gutter fitted at the low end of the carport. The pitch or angle is why we call them Skillion Roof and not Flat roof carports.
Gable roof carports
Gable or Gabled Roof Carports feature two sloping roofs that meet in the middle. This leaves an open triangle at each end of the roof called ‘the gable”. This gable can be left open allowing more air flow or can be in-filled. A common choice is for us to supply an open gable with a frame only at each end. The customer can then choose a material to fill the gable such as lattice, wood or aluminium slats, concrete board or metal. This gives them a more stylish finish the flat roof carports and also helps to reduce the amount of debris and leaves that accumulate on the roof. The maximum single span on a Skillion Carport is 9m using a 9m steel beam. The Gable Roof Carport can have a larger opening than 9m as the span is over the 2 sides of a pitched roof.
Dutch Gable Carports
To understand the Dutch Gable Carport, its best to imagine a hip roof carport as described below, with a gable roof to finish the hip! It is basically a cross between a hip roof and a gable roof. They allow for very good airflow so are very popular in Australia’s hot spots. They are also very common on the majority of Australian houses so a Dutch Gable is often the perfect match for your home.
Hip roof carports.
The Hipped roof Carport feature four sloping sides that join together at the top. This means that each face is normally a triangle in shape. This type of carport is highly durable and can withstand strong winds and snow loads. They are particularly popular in Cyclonic areas and in the Snow Country because of this. Hip roofs are also aesthetically pleasing and can replicate the look of a full-fledged garage.
Flat Roof, Gable Roof or Hip Roof Carports: Which is Best for You?
The type of carport that’s best for you depends on your needs, budget, and the look you’re going for. If you need basic protection for your car and don’t have a lot of money to spend, then a Skillion roof carport is probably your best option. A Skillion roof is also the best option for retro-fitting solar panels if you are looking for solar-ready.
If you’re looking for good protection from the elements with excellent airflow then a Dutch Gable Carport or a gable roof carport may be the better choice. In our opinion they also look a lot classier than a standard Skillion carport. The Gabled roof will keep water, leaves, and dust from accumulating on the roof, and it will have a more traditional look than a flat roof carport.
A Hip Roof is excellent in Cyclonic areas
Finally, for those who want great protection from the elements and a more attractive look, a hip roof carport might be the way to go. This is particularly good in Snowy Country or Cyclonic areas. Although it’s generally more expensive than a standard gable carport, it is less expensive than a Dutch Gable carport. It’s also a better design to stand up to strong winds and heavy snow loads but you will never have any problems in any area of Australia if you stick with Professional Choice Carports. They are quite simply the strongest, heaviest and best designed range of carport kits in Australia.
Advantages and disadvantages of each carport type
Flat roof carports are generally the least expensive option and will provide good protection for your vehicles. However, they’re a little more exposed to the elements and can accumulate more leaves and debris than the other three types. Gable roof carports are a bit more expensive than flat roof carports, but they also provide more protection from the elements, particularly heat, and are better at shedding water and leaves. On the downside, they are slightly more difficult to construct.
Flat Roof, Gable Roof or Hip Roof Carports: Which is Best for You? Advantages of Dutch Gable and Hip.
The Dutch Gable is probably the most popular design, after the less expensive Skillion roof. Most developers, when building a carport as part of a new house project, will choose a Dutch Gable. In most cases it matched the house and the various surfaces leave many options to do an excellent multi-colour paint job. Hip roof carports provide the greatest protection from the weather, but they’re also the second most expensive option. They’re also exceptionally well-matched for cyclonic areas and in the high country where we get snow.
Summary – Flat Roof, Gable Roof or Hip Roof Carports: Which is Best for You?
When it comes to choosing the right carport for your home, you’ll need to consider your needs, budget, and the look you’re going for. If you’re look for basic protection and don’t have much money to spend, then a flat roof carport (Skillion) is probably best. If you need more protection and a more traditional look, then a gable roof carport may be the better option. Finally, if you need the best protection and want a more aesthetically appealing look, then a Dutch Gale or hip roof carport might be the way to go. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of carport is best for you. You can be sure that all Professional Choice Carports kits will be excellent in your area as they are built and certified site-specific.