The minimum width of the bay for parking two cars side by side must be at least 6 meters to ensure comfortable opening of doors and passage between cars without the risk of damaging the paintwork.
Ignoring this basic parameter leads to the fact that the neighbor in the parking lot will have to literally squeeze through a narrow gap, scratching the thresholds against the pillars of the structure. Correctly calculated carport dimensions for two cars are the foundation for long-term operation, since the resistance of the frame to wind and snow loads depends on the dimensions.
When designing, it is necessary to take into account not only the current car, but also a possible replacement of the vehicle with a larger one in the future, for example, switching from a sedan to an SUV or minivan. It is almost impossible to correct errors in calculations at the planning stage after the fact without completely rebuilding the support system.
Optimal width and layout of parking spaces
The standard width of a passenger car varies from 1.8 to 2.2 meters, but the size of the body alone is not enough for comfortable operation. SNiP 21-01-97 and modern building codes recommend allocating a width of at least 2.5β3 meters per parking space if we are talking about private territory. For two machines, the total width of the working area must be increased taking into account the central supports or lack thereof.
If the design includes a central row of pillars, the distance between them should be such that the driver and passengers do not experience discomfort when the doors are open. Ideally, the width of the span between the supports is 5.5β6 meters, which allows you to accommodate two cars with a margin.
It is important to consider the opening angle of the doors: when parking in a herringbone or at an angle, the width requirements may vary, but for perpendicular parking the 6 meter rule is the gold standard.
β οΈ Attention: Leave at least 0.5β0.7 meters of free space on each outer side from the dimensions of the car to the edge of the canopy so that rain does not flood the side windows during downpours.
Calculation of structure height and clearance
The height of the canopy is a critical parameter depending on the type of vehicles that will be stored under it. For passenger sedans and hatchbacks, the minimum height from ground level to the lowest point of the roof should be 2.3β2.5 meters. This ensures safe passage even for cars with roof racks or bicycles.
If the family plans to buy a minibus or SUV with high ground clearance, the height should be increased to 3 meters or more. Don't forget that canopy height is calculated based on the lowest point of the roof overhang, and not on the ridge.
It is not advisable to make a canopy that is too high (more than 3.5 meters), as this increases the windage of the structure and the risk of the roof being blown off by strong winds, and also reduces the effectiveness of protection from slanting rain.
- π For passenger cars (sedan, hatchback) - minimum height 2.3 m.
- π For crossovers and SUVs - the optimal height is 2.7β3.0 m.
- π For minibuses and minivans - height from 3.0 to 3.5 m.
Span length and protection from precipitation
The length of the canopy is determined by the length of the largest car in the garage plus the technological reserves at the front and rear. The average length of a modern sedan is about 4.5β4.8 meters, an SUV - up to 5 meters. In order for the machine to be completely protected, the total length must be at least 6 meters.
However, if the canopy is open at the ends, the length should be increased to 7β8 meters. This is necessary to protect against side winds, which can blow snow or rain under the visor. The length of the carport for two cars in a row should ensure that the dimensions of the car are covered with a margin of at least 1 meter on each side.
When using the canopy as a place for temporary parking with the possibility of unloading things from the trunk, it is recommended to increase the length by another 1.5β2 meters so that you can comfortably stand near the open trunk without leaving under the roof.
For maximum protection from precipitation, consider installing polycarbonate side walls or windbreaks on one or both sides.
The influence of the type of roofing material on the dimensions
The choice of roof material directly affects the load-bearing capacity requirements of the frame and, consequently, the number of supports. Heavy materials such as natural tiles or slate, require more frequent support spacing and a reinforced foundation, which can visually βroughenβ the structure and reduce usable space.
Lightweight materials such as polycarbonate or corrugated sheets allow large spans between posts, creating a feeling of spaciousness. However, polycarbonate requires an inclination angle of at least 10β15 degrees for effective water drainage and self-cleaning of snow.
Metal tiles are a compromise: they are lightweight, but noisy when it rains and require soundproofing if the shed is adjacent to the house. When calculating the length of the slope, take into account the overhang of the roof beyond the supports, which should be 30β50 cm.
Table of recommended canopy dimensions
To simplify the calculations, below is a summary table with the optimal design dimensions depending on the class of car. This data will help you quickly navigate when ordering materials.
| Car class | Min. width (2 cars) | Wholesale length | Min. height | Tilt angle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact (A, B class) | 5.5 m | 6.0 m | 2.3 m | from 10Β° |
| Middle class (C, D) | 6.0 m | 6.5 m | 2.5 m | from 12Β° |
| SUVs | 6.5 m | 7.0 m | 2.8 m | from 15Β° |
| Minivans | 7.0 m | 7.5 m | 3.0 m | from 15Β° |
The data in the table is average. Always take measurements of the specific vehicle models you own, especially if they are American or full-size body-on-frame SUVs.
How to calculate snow load
To calculate the snow load, use the formula S = Sg * ΞΌ, where Sg is the weight of snow cover per 1 mΒ² in your region, and ΞΌ is a coefficient depending on the roof slope. For flat canopies ΞΌ=1.
The nuances of installing supports and foundations
The number and placement of support posts is key to stability. For a carport for two cars, four corner supports are most often used, but for a length of more than 6 meters, the installation of additional intermediate posts is required.
The foundation must be buried below the freezing point of the soil to avoid seasonal heaving, which can warp the structure. For metal pillars, it is optimal to use concrete cups or screw piles.
β οΈ Attention: When installing a canopy close to the house (it is strictly forbidden) to firmly connect the new structure to the foundation of the main building, since different shrinkage can lead to cracks in the wall of the house.
The section of the profile pipe for the supports is selected based on the roof area: for a canopy of 6x6 meters under polycarbonate, a pipe of 80x80 mm is sufficient, and under a metal tile, 100x100 mm is required.
βοΈ Checklist before construction starts
Ergonomics and ease of use
In addition to dry numbers, it is important to take into account the human factor. The width of the roadway in front of the canopy should allow you to drive under it without βacrobaticβ maneuvers. The minimum width of the entrance is 3 meters, but it is better to lay 3.5β4 meters.
Lighting also plays a role: the lamps should be positioned so that the light does not blind the driver when leaving, but illuminates the entire parking area. Often, lamps are mounted on the bottom of trusses or on support poles.
Consider running electricity to charge electric vehicles or using a compressor to inflate tires. Availability of a moisture-proof socket IP44 and higher will be a big plus in operation.
The main design principle: it is better to make a canopy 20% larger than designed than to face a lack of space in a year.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it necessary to build walls near a carport for two cars?
Walls are not required, but are advisable on the windy side. They protect from snowstorms and slanting rain, turning the canopy into a full-fledged shelter. However, you should not make completely blank walls - this will worsen ventilation.
What roof angle is optimal for polycarbonate?
The minimum tilt angle for cellular polycarbonate is 10 degrees, but for effective self-cleaning of dirt and snow, it is recommended to make a slope of 15β20 degrees.
Is it possible to save on width if you park cars diagonally?
Parking diagonally (βherringboneβ) does indeed reduce the overall width of the structure, but requires a significantly greater depth (length) of the canopy. For two cars, this method rarely provides space gains compared to parallel parking.
Is a drainage system (gutter) needed around the perimeter of the canopy?
Yes, organized drainage is required. Without it, water will flow along the perimeter, eroding the soil near the foundation and creating mud and puddles around cars, which is especially unpleasant in winter (ice).