metal carports enclosed When you need secure, all-weather storage for your vehicles, equipment, or tools, a metal carport enclosed with walls and doors offers the ultimate protection. Unlike open-sided carports that leave belongings exposed to wind, dust, and theft, fully enclosed metal carports create a locked, weathertight space that can serve as a garage, workshop, or equipment shed. At Metal Carports and Buildings, we design and install custom-engineered enclosed carports that meet your local building codes and personal needs, using high-quality galvanized steel and professional installation crews across 12 western states.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to stash your RV, a farmer needing a dry shelter for tractors, or a business owner wanting secure equipment storage, a fully enclosed metal carport is a durable, low-maintenance solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits, customization options, and engineering behind these structures so you can make an informed choice for your property.
What Is a Fully Enclosed Metal Carport? metal carports enclosed
A fully enclosed metal carport is a steel structure with solid walls on all sides and one or more doors, typically a roll-up garage door or a walk-in door. The roof and walls are made from sturdy galvanized steel panels, and the framing uses heavy-gauge steel to withstand wind and snow loads. These buildings are anchored to a concrete slab or footing and are designed to be permanent additions to your property. Unlike open-sided carports, which have only a roof and a few support columns, enclosed versions offer complete coverage from all sides, protecting your possessions from weather, dirt, and theft.
Benefits of Enclosed Over Open-Sided Carports
While open-sided carports are fine for basic shade and rain protection, they fall short in several key areas. An enclosed metal carport provides:
- Full weather protection: Keeps out snow, rain, wind, and debris.
- Security: Lockable doors prevent theft and unauthorized access.
- Versatility: Can be used as a garage, workshop, or storage room.
- Temperature control: While not insulated, enclosed walls reduce temperature swings compared to open structures.
- Increased property value: A permanent, enclosed building adds utility and curb appeal.
If you need a space you can lock and leave your belongings in year-round, an enclosed carport is the right choice.
Customization Options for Your Enclosed Carport
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Metal Carports and Buildings is the ability to customize your enclosed carport to fit exactly what you need. Options include:
- Width and length: Standard widths from 12 to 24 feet and lengths up to 31 feet or more, depending on your site.
- Height: Taller sidewalls are available to accommodate RVs, boats, or tall equipment.
- Doors: Choose from overhead garage doors (sizes vary) and walk-in doors for easy access.
- Windows: Add natural light with optional window cutouts.
- Roof styles: Regular roof (horizontal panels) or boxed eave for a cleaner look and added strength.
- Steel gauge upgrade: Standard 14-gauge framing can be upgraded to 12-gauge for extra durability; roof panels from 29-gauge to 26-gauge.
- Wind and snow load certifications: Standard 120 MPH wind / 25 PSF snow load, upgradeable to 170 MPH / 65 PSF for areas with extreme weather.
All buildings are engineered to meet local codes in the western states we serve, so you can be confident your carport is safe and legal.
Understanding Steel Gauges and Certifications
When shopping for an enclosed metal carport, you’ll hear terms like 14-gauge steel, 12-gauge steel, and PSF loads. Here’s what they mean: Gauge refers to the thickness of the steel — the lower the number, the thicker and stronger the metal. Our standard framing uses 14-gauge galvanized steel, which is excellent for most residential use. For heavy-duty applications or areas with severe weather, upgrading to 12-gauge framing provides extra rigidity and peace of mind. Similarly, roof panels are typically 29-gauge, but you can upgrade to 26-gauge for better resistance against hail or heavy snow.
Wind and snow load certifications are critical. Our standard enclosed carports are certified to 120 MPH wind and 25 PSF (pounds per square foot) snow load. If you live in a high-wind zone or heavy snow area, we offer upgrades up to 170 MPH and 65 PSF. All structures are engineered to meet or exceed local building department requirements across Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, Washington, and Oregon.
Cost of Enclosed Metal Carports – What to Expect
Pricing for a fully enclosed metal carport varies based on size, customization, and optional upgrades. While we provide free quotes, you can expect that an enclosed carport costs more than an open-sided model due to additional materials (walls and doors) and more complex installation. Factors influencing cost include:
- Overall dimensions (width, length, height)
- Type and number of doors
- Steel gauge upgrades
- Wind and snow load upgrades
- Roof style and panel upgrades
- Site preparation requirements
We recommend contacting us for a personalized quote. Our team will help you design a carport that fits your budget while meeting your needs.
Professional Installation Process Explained
Every enclosed metal carport from Metal Carports and Buildings includes professional delivery and installation by our licensed and certified crews. Here’s what to expect:
- Free consultation and design: We help you choose the right size, style, and options, then provide a detailed quote.
- Site preparation: You will need a level concrete slab or gravel pad (we can advise on requirements).
- Delivery: Our crew arrives with all materials and equipment.
- Installation: They assemble the framing, attach roof and wall panels, install doors and windows, and secure the structure to the foundation.
- Cleanup: We leave your job site clean and tidy.
- Inspection and walk-through: We ensure everything meets your satisfaction and explain any maintenance or care tips.
Installation typically takes one to three days, depending on size and complexity. We handle all the heavy lifting so you can enjoy your new building right away.
Serving Western States with Local Engineering Expertise
Because building codes and weather patterns vary widely across the western United States, every enclosed carport we install is engineered specifically for your location. Our team understands the unique wind loads of the Great Plains, the heavy snow in the Rockies and Cascades, and the seismic considerations in the Intermountain West. We work with local permitting offices to ensure your carport meets all requirements, so you don’t have to worry about fines or structural failures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Enclosed Carports
What sizes are available for enclosed metal carports?
Our enclosed carports are available in widths from 12 to 24 feet and lengths up to 31 feet or more. Custom sizes can be discussed during design.
How much does a fully enclosed metal carport cost?
Cost depends on size, options, and upgrades. Contact us for a free quote tailored to your needs.
Are enclosed carports customizable with doors and windows?
Yes, we offer overhead garage doors, walk-in doors, and windows to make your carport as functional as you need.
Do enclosed carports meet local building codes?
Absolutely. Each building is engineered to meet the wind and snow load requirements of your specific location.
What warranty comes with an enclosed metal carport?
Buildings with 12-gauge framing come with a 20-year warranty. Other standard warranties apply for 14-gauge structures.
How is an enclosed carport installed?
Our certified crews deliver and professionally install the carport on your prepared site, typically in one to three days.
What is the difference between open-sided and enclosed carports?
Open-sided carports have columns and a roof but no walls; enclosed carports have full walls and doors for complete protection and security.
Can an enclosed carport be used as a workshop or garage?
Yes, many customers use them as workshops, garages, RV covers, or equipment storage. With added doors and windows, it functions like a small building.
What gauge steel is best for durability?
For maximum durability, upgrade to 12-gauge framing and 26-gauge roof panels. Standard 14-gauge and 29-gauge are sufficient for most applications.
How long does installation take?
Most installations are completed in one to three days, depending on size and complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sizes are available for enclosed metal carports?
Our enclosed carports are available in widths from 12 to 24 feet and lengths up to 31 feet or more. Custom sizes can be discussed during design.
How much does a fully enclosed metal carport cost?
Cost depends on size, options, and upgrades. Contact us for a free quote tailored to your needs.
What warranty comes with an enclosed metal carport?
Buildings with 12-gauge framing come with a 20-year warranty. Other standard warranties apply for 14-gauge structures.
Can an enclosed carport be used as a workshop or garage?
Yes, many customers use them as workshops, garages, RV covers, or equipment storage. With added doors and windows, it functions like a small building.
What gauge steel is best for durability?
For maximum durability, upgrade to 12-gauge framing and 26-gauge roof panels. Standard 14-gauge and 29-gauge are sufficient for most applications.
