Carports vs Garages

22 October 2025

Trying to decide between building a new carport or garage? When it comes to protecting your vehicle, a garage or carport is a convenient addition to your home, but which one is better? Both options are great for keeping your car safe and improving your home's value, but each has its advantages, so before you break ground on your carport or garage project, it's best to compare the key differences between the two to determine which will better suit your property, house, budget, and lifestyle.

What do you need to consider when choosing between a garage and a carport?

Before you make this significant investment, it's worth considering what you want from either structure. Are you looking for something that simply provides shelter and protection from the elements, or do you need something more secure and versatile? Here are some questions to ask yourself:

How do you plan on using the space?

Knowing what you'll use the space for is an important factor in deciding whether to build a carport or a garage. Are you just looking for a sheltered spot to park your vehicle, or are you looking for a space where you can also store equipment and possibly even use it as a workshop?

A carport might be the perfect solution if you need a simple overhead cover for your car. It can shield vehicles from the weather, but thanks to the lack of enclosed walls, a carport provides effortless access to your car. Bonus! A carport can also be used as an undercover entertainment area, if you need the space.

A garage, on the other hand, could be your best bet if you want that extra space for tools, bikes, and additional storage. They're also great for using as a workshop or for anything else you might want. A fully enclosed garage also provides extra security and protection from the weather and car thieves.

How much space do you require?

Space is another vital consideration when choosing between a garage and a carport. Will you use the space for a standard car or a different vehicle type? Will it be used for one car, or do you need it for multiple vehicles? Will the space only be used as a parking area, or do you plan on using it for extra storage space? Answering these questions will not only help you determine whether you should build a carport or a garage, but will also help you determine the size structure you'd need.

While you can customise the sizes of carports and garages, thanks to their open design, carports typically require less space. Garages generally require more space than carports, but they also provide extra room for storage solutions and extra living space.

How much weather protection do you need?

Consider how much you want to protect your vehicle from the elements. While an open carport is a wonderful spot to showcase your collectible while still keeping it protected from the rain, hail, or harsh Australian sun, it won't provide optimal weather protection. When your goal is to maximise climate control, a garage gives you complete coverage and protection from all weather conditions, keeping your car clean and secure.

What building and planning permissions do you need?

Whether you choose a carport or garage, you’ll likely need some form of council approval before starting construction. Each council has different rules, which may depend on the size, height, and location of the structure. It’s a good idea to check with your local council about the specific building regulations in the area early in the process to avoid any delays or unexpected costs.

Pros and cons of carports

Carports are convenient and affordable, which makes them really popular in Australia. They also suit some properties better than others. However, they might not be the perfect solution for everyone, so here are the pros and cons of installing a carport:

Pros of carports:

• Carports are affordable and cost-effective to build

• Carport installation is quick and easy

• Carports offer protection from Australia's climate

• Carport designs provide excellent ventilation

• Carports can be completely customised

Cons of carpots:

• Carports offer limited protection from the elements

• Carports are less theft-proof than garages

• Carports provide less usable storage space than garages

Pros and cons of garages

Building a garage may have more benefits than building a carport, but you've still got to weigh up if they're exactly what you're looking for, as there are some cons that come with them, too. Here are the pros and cons of building a garage that you need to be aware of:

Pros of garages:

• Garages can add more resale value to your property

• Garages can be used year-round, regardless of the weather conditions

• Garages can be customised and utilised in many different ways

• Garages help keep your car cleaner for longer

• Garages provide optimal protection from the weather

• Garages are good at deterring car thieves

• Garages can be completely customised

Cons of garages:

• Garages have a higher upfront cost

• Garages can take longer to plan and build

• Garages without proper ventilation can trap heat

• Garages are less accessible than carports

What types of approvals will I need to build a carport or garage?

In most states or regions in Australia, the local council has different sets of regulations that garages and carports must meet before being built. Generally, you would need building approval before moving forward and you may have to submit additional information as requested. Typically, if the building exceeds 10 square meters, is near a boundary, or is in a heritage area, you need council approval.

Design your own carport or garage with our shed designer app

Once you've decided whether to build a carport or a garage, you can start designing your own custom structure using our shed designer app. It’s an easy-to-use online tool that lets you create, adjust, and view your design. Before finalising your choice, you can explore different roof styles, colours, and layouts. We can then use this design as an inspiration to build your carport or garage.

Bring your carport or garage design to life

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Fair Dinkum Builds is one of the best shed-building companies in Australia. Contact them to discuss your project, get expert advice, and receive a detailed quote for your perfect carport or garage. With our experienced team and use of quality, Australian-made materials, you can count on us to help you build your perfect carport or garage that looks great and endures year after year.