Products, different uses: find out about the different materials for covering and protecting your vehicle, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. For this type of project, the material you choose is essential and must be suited to your region's climate. There are different types of carports available in France. Quality of materials, shape, design, roof type, equipment, options, all these points need to be considered in detail in order to make the right choice.
Combining a traditional and warm style, wooden carports are the most popular type of carport in France. They blend in well with the natural environment and are easy to incorporate into your exterior. The real disadvantage of wood is the amount of maintenance required. Since it is a natural material, it is impossible to let your wooden carport age without regularly maintaining it with several layers of treatment each year.
If you choose wood, it is important to choose the right type of wood for your climate. Softwoods such as pine and spruce should be used. Class 4 wooden carports are particularly waterproof.
This type of carport is not the best choice for rainy and windy locations.
You will also find carport frames made of steel, and in particular very light steel, which is often imported from Asian countries.
Beware of the quality and durability of this type of material. Indeed, even if the cost seems very reasonable, the real disadvantage of this type of material is that it is prone to rusting. An anti-rust treatment should be applied at least once a year. But you can wave goodbye to a long-lasting carport with this type of material. You will almost certainly have to buy a new one after a few years.
The best advice we can give you is to opt for an aluminium carport. This material has the most advantages. It is strong, mechanically sound, highly resistant and requires very little maintenance. It can withstand rainy and windy climates, as well as mountainous and maritime environments.
As with a conservatory or pergola project, aluminium is the ideal material for outdoor constructions. It is perfectly suited to custom-made projects, such as Akena carports. Its modernity and durability are undeniable assets. What's more, it doesn't require any special maintenance. A quick clean with water and mild or natural cleaning products once or twice a year is all it takes to keep your carport looking its best. If you are wondering how to clean your aluminium carport, you can read our article on cleaning your carport.