Whether you live in the leafy streets of Burnside or Norwood, or a new development in Mount Barker or Onkaparinga Heights, available space in Adelaide yards is often tight. At the same time, off-street parking is a major asset. Most homeowners don’t have the space for both a carport and a garage, leading to a key question: “Which should I build for my home?”
Both options protect your car. Both add functionality. However, they impact your home’s value and your bank account in very different ways. In this guide, we look at costs, the return on investment (ROI) and the benefits of each option to help you decide.
The Value of off-street parking in Adelaide
Adelaide’s real estate market remains competitive. Buyers consistently look for secure, off-street parking. In many suburbs, a home without a dedicated parking space sells for significantly less than one with a carport or garage.
Because it’s enclosed a garage offers the most protection. Offsetting this is a higher price tag. For many Adelaide residents, this can be a key factor in deciding on a carport, but there are other factors to consider.
Comparing the return on investment
When we talk about “value,” we mean two things: lifestyle value and resale value.
- The cost of construction
Building a garage is a major construction project. It requires a concrete slab, full walling, strong framing, electrical work, and is a more complex structure than a carport. That’s why constructing a garage costs more. In contrast, an Adelaide carport builder can install a high-quality carport for a fraction of the cost of a garage. Because you spend less upfront on a carport, your “profit” or added value at the time of sale is often higher.
- Curb appeal and first impressions
In many Adelaide suburbs, the front of the house defines its character. A garage, particularly if it’s bulky or poorly designed, can block the view of a home and in some cases reduce the street appeal. This can be a concern for a carport too, but if you have your carport custom-designed by a professional builder it can enhance the look of your home significantly. By matching the roofline and colours of your existing house, a carport adds “street appeal.” This makes the home more attractive to buyers the moment they pull up to the curb.
- Usage of space
Adelaide blocks are becoming smaller. A garage takes up a lot of “visual mass.” It can make a small yard feel cramped. Because carports are more open, they maintain a sense of space. They allow light and air to flow through the property. This prevents the “boxed-in” feeling that often comes with garages.
Why a carport might be your best move
While garages have their place, carports offer several distinct advantages for the modern Adelaide lifestyle. If you are looking for the most efficient way to upgrade your property, consider these points:
- They cost less to build: You get a high-quality, shaded parking space without the massive price tag of a garage.
- They work better on blocks with limited space: Their open design keeps your property feeling breezy and spacious.
- They often provide more street appeal than garages: A custom carport can be designed to mimic the architectural style of your home perfectly.
- They generally require less planning approval: In many Adelaide council areas, carports fall under simpler building codes than fully enclosed garages. This saves you time and stress during the permit process.
Addressing the security question
One area where carports can fall short is security. A garage provides a locked room for your vehicle.
However, you do not have to sacrifice safety just because you choose a carport. If security is a concern for your Adelaide carport, there are several easy ways to upgrade your structure:
- Install a roller door: You can add a remote-controlled roller door to the front of your carport for added privacy and safety.
- Fill in one or more sides: Adding a wall or screening to the sides of the carport prevents prying eyes and adds extra weather protection.
- Add security lights: Motion-sensor LED lights are an affordable and effective way to deter intruders.
- Install cameras: Modern smart-home cameras are easy to mount to carport beams, providing 24/7 monitoring via your smartphone.
Carport vs garage: The verdict
So, what’s the verdict. Is a carport or garage better for your home?
We’re sorry to disappoint but there is no single verdict. From a return on investment perspective alone, a carport will usually win out, particularly if you’re looking to sell your home in the short or medium term.
However, major decisions like this aren’t just about return on investment. They’re also about your preferences and your home. Which is why it’s worth getting a quote on a new Adelaide carport, so you can make a more informed decision.
Mr Carports is the premier choice for homeowners seeking a reliable Adelaide carport builder. Our team specialises in creating customised designs that suit your specific needs and budget. We handle everything from the initial design to the final build.
Give Mr Carports a call on 1800 557 782 to book your free design consultation and quote. You can also visit our Adelaide branch page to see some of our recent projects and find more inspiration.
Let’s build something great together!
