Do I get a Gable or Flat Roof Carport is the question? Carports are a great alternative to garages, and a valuable addition to your property. They’re a cost-effective investment, protecting your car, caravan, boat or anything else you use it to store. It extends your house by offering a new shaded, protected space, and adds value to your property. 

You may be looking forward to having a new carport installed, but confused about which type of carport roof is best for you and your property. Both gable and flat carport roofs come in a range of colour and style options, but there are some differences that will help you decide which to build. 

What’s a Gable Roof vs a Flat Roof?

A gable roof (pictured) meets at a point in the centre, with two sloped sides. It has a triangular look. Because it looks more similar to the typical sloped roofs of houses, it can blend into most homes more seamlessly. 

Alternatively, a flat roof (pictured) is, as you might expect, flat. Rather than rising in the centre, it is the same level across the entire roof. These are less expensive and simpler to build. They are still angled for effective water drainage, so they tend to be a fantastic budget option. 

Here are three questions to ask yourself to help you choose which carport roof is best for you.

1. What’s your budget and timeline?

It’s important to consider the amount of money you have to spend on your carport roof, as well as how quickly you need it installed, when making the decision between a gable or flat roof. 

Flat roofs are cheaper and faster, meaning you can have it sooner and without breaking the bank. If budget is your main concern, flat roofs will be the best option for you. 

Gable roofs are more expensive and take longer to install, since their design is more complex. However, the time and expense are worth it depending on your needs.

2. Which style will look best with your home?

Your carport should be an extension of your house that blends in but looks great – it shouldn’t stick out like a sore thumb. To viewers, it should look like a valuable part of your house, not an afterthought that has been stuck on. 

Gable carport roofs can certainly have a more stylish look, and match the slope of most house roofs, meaning it should match your home better. This isn’t to say that they’re always the best choice, but depending on the look you want, it might be worth the extra money. 

Flat carport roofs can also look great, especially if your house has a flat roof. If the carport isn’t attached to your home, a flat roof can also blend into surroundings more seamlessly, not drawing as much attention to the structure. 

Remember that size, colour, and building materials are also important considerations in your carport’s aesthetic. If you must choose a roof option that is not your preferred option, you can still ensure the carport looks great. 

3. Which lasts the longest?

As long as you use quality materials and paint, and a reliable company to install it, there shouldn’t be a significant difference in the overall quality of your carport regardless of which roof type you choose. 

Since flat roofs have less of a slope, they can suffer from more buildup of water/debris such as leaves and therefore are more prone to damage. Gable roofs, with their triangular shape, are stronger than flat roofs. Flat roofs can, however, withstand wind better.

Again, there is no significant difference between gable and flat roof longevity, so it’s about looking at your environment and seeing which type of roof will suit it best. 

Diamond Patios can help you design and build the carport that is ideal for your home

We hope this has helped you decide which type of carport is best for you.

The team of professionals at Diamond Patios can help design and build the perfect carport for your home. Not only a practical place to park the car undercover, but carports can also give your home another area for entertaining or other uses too. Diamond Patios offers expert advice and only use quality products for peace of mind.

Want to know what your carport roof will cost?

Get an obligation-free quote using our patio roof calculator as an estimate, or Get in touch with the team at Diamond Patios to talk about your carport plans.