Carport vs Garage Cost: Which is More Cost-Effective?

TL;DR

Carports cost significantly less upfront (£1,000–£2,500) compared to garages (£3,000–£13,500+), but garages add more long-term property value (3–5% vs 1–2%). Your choice depends on whether you prioritise immediate affordability or long-term security and storage. Carports install quickly with minimal disruption, while garages require more time but offer enclosed protection and versatile space for future use.

How Much Does a Carport Cost Compared to a Garage?

A carport typically costs between £1,000 and £2,500, while a garage ranges from £3,000 for prefabricated units to £13,500+ for brick-built versions. The price difference comes down to structure: carports are open-sided frames with roofing, whilst garages are fully enclosed buildings requiring walls, doors, and foundations.

You're essentially choosing between basic weather protection and complete security with storage potential. If you need a simple cover for your vehicle without breaking the bank, a carport gives you that. If you want a secure, multipurpose space that boosts your home's value, a garage is worth the investment.

Why Do Garages Cost So Much More?

Garages require significantly more materials and labour. You're not just paying for a roof—you're paying for four walls, a foundation, a secure door, and potentially electrical work. Each of these elements adds time and cost.

Carports skip most of this complexity. A simple frame, a roof, and some basic groundwork get the job done. That's why installation is faster and cheaper.

What Actually Affects the Final Price?

Three main factors drive the cost: materials, labour requirements, and additional fees like planning permission or groundwork preparation. Understanding these helps you budget accurately and avoid surprise costs.

Your material choices make a huge difference. Timber carports sit at the lower end of the price range, whilst brick-built garages with insulation and electrics push costs higher. Labour time varies too—carports might take a day or two, but garages can stretch to several weeks depending on complexity.

What Materials Will You Need for Each Option?

Carports use straightforward materials: timber or steel frames with polycarbonate or metal roofing. These keep costs low whilst providing reliable weather protection. You won't need extensive groundwork or complex foundations.

Garages demand more: brick or concrete block walls, a proper roofing system, insulated doors, and sometimes cladding or render for aesthetics. If you want electricity for lighting or power tools, that adds wiring and electrical compliance costs.

Are There Hidden Fees I Should Know About?

Yes, and they can catch you off guard if you're not prepared. Common extras include:

• Base preparation: Concrete pads or levelled ground for stability
• Planning permission fees: Required for some garage builds depending on size and location
• Drainage and guttering: Essential for water management
• Electrical connections: If you want lighting or power sockets
• Building regulations compliance: Sometimes necessary for garages

Garages typically rack up more of these fees because they're permanent structures with stricter requirements. Carports, being simpler and often classed as temporary structures, usually avoid the heaviest compliance costs.

Always factor in at least 10–15% extra budget for unexpected expenses—it's better to have a cushion than to run short halfway through.

Which Option Adds More Value to Your Property?

Garages add 3–5% to your property value on average, whilst carports typically add 1–2%. The difference comes down to functionality and buyer appeal. Whilst garages offer security, storage, and conversion potential, carports simply can't match that. 

Buyers see garages as versatile spaces. They're not just for cars. They are potential workshops, home gyms, storage rooms, or even home office conversions. That flexibility makes them attractive in competitive property markets.

Carports still add value, but in a more modest way. They provide practical weather protection and create extra sheltered space, which appeals to buyers looking for functional outdoor areas without the premium cost of a garage.

Do Buyers Actually Care About Garages?

Absolutely, especially in urban and suburban areas where secure parking is limited. A garage signals security, which matters more in built-up locations or areas with higher vehicle crime rates.

In rural areas with lower crime, the difference is less pronounced. Buyers might value a carport just as much if outdoor space and weather protection are the main concerns.

If you're thinking about resale, consider your location. In cities or high-value neighbourhoods, a garage is almost always worth the investment. In quieter areas, a well-built carport might give you most of the benefit at a fraction of the cost.

How Long Does Installation Take for Each?

Carports typically install within one to three days, whilst garages take anywhere from a few days (prefabricated) to several weeks (brick-built). Your timeline depends on the structure type, site preparation, and any additional features like electrics.

If you need quick installation with minimal disruption, a carport is your best bet. In fact, if you’re reasonably handy, you can get one up with a friend in an afternoon. 

Garages demand more patience. Groundwork, wall construction, roofing, and finishing touches all take time. Brick-built garages involve the most extensive work, especially if you're adding insulation, plastering, or electrical systems.

Which Option Fits Your Budget and Lifestyle?

Choose a carport if you want the lowest upfront cost, quick installation, and basic weather protection. It's ideal for homes in lower-crime areas where open-sided storage works fine and you don't need additional enclosed space.

Choose a garage if you value vehicle security, need extra storage, or want a space that can convert into a workshop, gym, or office. Garages suit urban areas, high-value properties, or anyone planning to stay in their home long-term and wanting to maximise resale value.

Your decision should reflect your budget, how you use your vehicle, and what your property needs. Both options improve your home, but they serve different purposes.

When Does a Carport Make More Sense?

You'll benefit most from a carport if:

• You're on a tight budget and need immediate vehicle protection
• Your neighbourhood has low vehicle crime, and security isn't a major concern
• You prefer open, flexible outdoor space rather than enclosed storage
• You want minimal planning and installation time
• You park multiple vehicles and need cost-effective coverage for more than one

Carports also work brilliantly if you're testing the waters before committing to a full garage build. You can always upgrade later.

When Is a Garage the Better Investment?

A garage makes more sense if:

• You live in an urban area where secure parking is valuable
• You need weatherproof storage for tools, bikes, or seasonal items
• You want a multipurpose space for hobbies, DIY, or fitness
• You're planning to stay in your home long-term and want to maximise property value
• You have valuable vehicles or classic cars that need full protection

Garages also appeal if you're thinking ahead. As your family grows or your needs change, that extra enclosed space becomes incredibly useful.