Which to Choose: An Aluminum or Steel Carport?

If you are searching for a quality metal carport, you should know there is a wide range of metal carports available with a variety of customization options. Carport manufacturers use various construction materials,

but one common question a potential buyer may ask is “Which carport is better for my needs, aluminum or steel?” The answer to that question depends on where you live, how you intend to use the building, how durable you want the building to be, and a few other factors.

Depending on their purpose, both metals have their own set of advantages; however, there are a few factors you should consider before purchasing a carport or carport kit:

Strength:

Compared to steel, aluminum is about one-third of its weight and is generally half as strong. While it has a high strength-to-weight ratio, the thickness (or gauge) would need to be increased significantly to make aluminum comparable in strength to steel, leading to higher costs. If you live in an area prone to high winds or heavy snowfall, experts recommend a steel carport due to its weight-bearing properties. Steel is sturdier and more heat-resistant than aluminum, making steel a better option.

Maintenance:

With good basic maintenance practices, upkeep should not be difficult for either steel or aluminum. Although aluminum is highly rust-resistant and has a high oxidation tolerance, it may develop pitting and appear chalky if oxidation occurs. Galvanized steel is also rust-resistant and maintains its structural integrity well with proper coating and maintenance.

Durability:

Aluminum and steel carports are both more durable than wood, but when choosing the best metal carport for your home or business it’s important to be aware of the potential impact of elements such as UV exposure, wind, rain, and snow. Aluminum is a softer metal and is more prone to dent, ding or scratch. Steel is a harder metal and is less likely to warp, deform or bend under weight, force or heat. For these reasons, steel carports have a clear advantage over aluminum in terms of their durability.

There are a lot of metal carport options out there, so be sure to consider the above factors to find the best metal carport for your needs. Carport Central is one of the leading providers of high-quality custom steel carports across the United States.

We offer metal carports and custom metal buildings catered to your needs, as well as your budget! You can contact us at (980) 321-9898, one of our friendly building experts will be more than happy to help answer any questions you may have!