Category Archives for "Carports Information"

Carport Footings – Are There Standard Sizes

What is the Standard Post Footing Sizes for DIY Carports and Carport Kits

Carport FootingsPeople often ask us what size footings do they need to concrete the carport posts into the ground.

How big the footings or foundations are depends on several factors. The width or diameter can vary from 350mm wide to 600mm wide, with the depth varying from 750mm to 1.5m and more.

The simple answer is there is no standard size of footing provided to anchor a carport into the ground. The footing size is determined by the size and height of the carport, the post size, the design and engineering of it, as well as the wind region in Australia.

Don’t assume that footing sizes have a standard size in building.

For example the footing size used for a fence will not work. The 2 structures are very different and so the amount of dead load and wind load is different. The only thing holding a carport to the ground are the posts and footings. They have to cope with not only supporting the weight of the carport, but also the constant pushing, pulling and twisting action caused by the wind.  

 

Factors Affecting Carport Footing Size

Width and Length
A bigger carport that has a larger roof area needs more support. If bigger posts are needed, then bigger footings are required.

Height
A carport’s height can affect how far the post goes into the ground.The higher the carport, the more in ground support and holding it needs. In the other words, the higher the carport is, the deeper the footing generally needs to be. In the past, some had used a general rule of thumb ratio of 3 to 1 particularly for taller carports (eg. 3.9m high carport means there was 1.3m of posts into the ground, a 3 to 1 ratio). It can be a good starting point, however follow the engineer’s recommendations. They have the experience and know how to calculate it correctly.

Post Size
In simple terms, the larger the post, the larger the footing. If a larger diameter post is used, you need to make the footing wider, so that there is adequate concrete surrounding the post. You will also tend to find that the footing is also deeper with larger posts. This is usually a side effect of the size of the carport, because larger posts are needed to support a larger roof area or a higher structure. For example, a carport kit to suit a caravan, motorhome or boat tends to be higher than a carport to suit a car. The increased height means more support and bracing is required to hold up the roof. You achieve this with larger posts.

Wind Region
The higher the wind region the faster the wind blows. You then need more bracing to hold the structure in place. One way to do this is to increase the size of the posts and footings.

 

What to Use in a Carport Footing

Obviously you use concrete, but did you know there are different types of concrete. Here are some quick tips.

  • Check the engineering. Here it will give you information about what concrete strength etc. to use. Do whatever is specified by the engineer or stronger. Eg. if 20mpa concrete strength is called for, use at least some concrete rated at 20mpa. Personally, we would use 25mpa and stronger, but if the engineer calls for more, do that.
    Note: DO NOT use any form of rapid setting concrete. It is usually way below the strength needed because of the mix and curing agents used.
  • Make sure the concrete is throroughly mixed. Don’t just throw some dry bags into the hole and pour water on top. Chances are it won’t mix properly, and you will end up with a sub-standard footing.

 

Carport Posts in GroundMake Your Job Look More Professional

After the footings are filled, form the top of them for a better finish. Concreters have various screeds and trowels, but you can still use anything with a flat surface to finish off. Make a dome shape or bevel the edge. This is so that the water runs away from the post, towards the ground. This not only looks nice, but prevents water pooling around the posts, which can lead to premature rusting.

GET A QUOTE

 

Useful Tip: When you place the posts into the holes, make sure you fit the supplied pieces of reo bar or threaded rod into the bottom of the posts. This is done to effectively ‘tag’ the concrete in the footing and pull against the weight above it. It helps to combat uplift forces – so your carport doesn’t blow away!

 

Useless Trivia: Most people, when needing concrete, simply order in a concrete truck. Did you know that it’s not unusual for a skyscaper or high rise building to have it’s own batching plant on site to make concrete. They need so much concrete for the footings and piers just to get out of the ground.

How To Build a Carport

A Quick Guide to Building a Carport

Many people see the benefit of buying a carport to protect their vehicles. But one of the main questions they then have is how to build a carport. You can make and build your own carport from scratch using stock length materials of the shelf, or you can buy a carport kit. A carport kit is by far the better option because apart from saving you time and money, it simplifies the steps in building. We also supply construction and installation guides with all our carport kits, making the process even easier.

But for the purpose of this article, let’s have a quick look at how to build a carport.

When you look at the basic steps of how to build a carport is essentially the same for all the different roof types and designs, it’s just the amount of time and effort that changes.

  • Step 1 – Install the Posts
  • Step 2 – Bolt the Frame to the Posts
  • Step 3 – Screw the Roof Sheets to the Frame
  • Step 4 – Screw and Fix the Guttering and Flashings to the Frame and Roof

Let’s now go into some more detail on this.

STEP 1.  Installing the posts

– There are 2 options to installing carport posts:

Concreting them directly into the ground

Fixing them with footing plates onto existing concrete

Steel Post Concreted Directly Into Ground

Steel Post Onto Footing Plate

 

 

 

 

 

Concreting the posts into the ground is the preferred method and has several advantages. One is that you get a stronger structure overall because of the increased bracing achieved. In simple terms it will move less in windy conditions. Secondly, it looks better as you don’t have footing plates and sometime angle braces in the way. It’s also more practical as you don’t have footing plates to get in the way of anything, or kick your toe on!

The main reason people want to use footing plates is because they already have existing concrete to bolt onto. This can potentially speed up the installation. However, in most cases, there is not enough concrete to fix to. A typical concrete driveway that is 100mm thick is not enough to anchor a carport to. You need proper footings under each column.

Marking out the Post Hole Locations

– Once you know the post location (yes it is different to the carport size), simply start at one corner and work off there. Whether it is 4 posts, 6 posts or more, you will need to ‘check the square’ of the holes. This means making sure that all posts are in the correct spot in relation to the the posts. There are 2 common methods and we suggest that you use both to double check your measurements.

Squaring Diagonals on CarportsMeasure the diagonal measurement between the outside posts. The 2 measurements must be the same. Look at the example drawing below. This is typical post hole layout for a square carport that is 6m wide and 6m long. Notice that the diagonal measurements are exactly the same. This same principle applies for a rectangular carport as well (see 2nd drawing).

 

3 4 5 Rule For Squaring a Carport Corner

You can also use the ‘3,4,5’ rule. Start in a corner of the carport. Your measure one way in a multiple of 3 (eg.3 metres) and mark the spot. You then come off the same corner and measure in a multiple of 4 (eg. 4 metres) and mark the spot. Then measure across the 2 spots you have marked. If the corner you started with is at 90 degrees, this measurement will be a multiple of 5 (eg. 5 metres). You can then simply the measurements of the sides out to the dimensions of the other post hole locations.

By using these 2 methods, you can ensure that your carport will be at 90 degrees in the corners and will be square.

You’re now ready to concrete the posts into the ground. Follow the instruction in your guide. You can also contact us with any questions you may have.

See the article on ways to install posts into the ground for more information.

 

Steel Post to Carport Frame

STEP 2. Bolt the frame to the posts

With decent quality carport kits, you should find that the main frame simply bolts together with no cutting or drilling needed. Start by bolting the main perimeter or fascia beams to the posts. Then connect the rafters or purlins to the beams with the supplied brackets. In the case of the gable, hip and dutch gable carports, you will now need to screw the purlins to the rafters, ready to take the roof sheets.

 

Installing Roof SheetsSTEP 3. Screw the Roof Sheets to the Frame

Now simply use the supplied roof screws to fix the roof sheets to the purlins. Care must be taken  to start in the right place. You don’t simply start at one end for every carport. Follow the instructions in your installation guide so that you get the correct sheet layout.

One other note: In the case of a gable, hip roof or dutch gable carport, you may find it easier to fix the fascia flashings to the carport before the roof sheets go on. This is because they sit under the bottom edge of the roof sheets.

 

Carport Guttering & FlashingsSTEP 4. ­– Screw and Fix the Guttering, Downpipe and Flashings to the Frame and Roof

This involves fixing off of the guttering, as well as various flashing which may include the ridge capping, barge capping, hip flashings and infill flashings. As mentioned above, the fascia flashing are better to be done earlier.

If your fascia flashings are on then do the guttering. After this you can look at fitting the barge cappings and ridge capping.

 

Clean Up

A couple of things we suggest to do also. Make sure that there are no metal shavings or what is called ‘swarf’ on the roof sheets or in the guttering. These are formed when you are screwing the roof sheets and flashings on. Either sweep them of the roof or use a blower tool to blow them off the roof. If you don’t they will rust over time and potentially mark your roof etc.

Then have a complete look over your carport and make sure every bolt, screw and rivet has been put in.

That’s it. Your carport is finished!

 

We hope this information has been helpful. If you’re still not sure exactly about what’s involved in building a carport or diy carport kit, why not give us a call. We’d also welcome the opportunity to give you a quote on a carport kit to suit your house or property.

Thanks very much.

Welcome to 2017 from Excalibur Carports

Hi everyone, and from all of us at Excalibur Carports, a happy new year to you all for 2017.

We are looking forward to helping many of you this year with your needs for carport kits.

Remember you have a complete choice of size, roof type and colours, to suit all wind regions and areas.
Carport kits are a great and easy way to protect your cars, boat, caravan or whatever other vehicle you have. They save wear and tear on your vehicles, which means they save you money! Quality carport kits also add value to your home, which means they make you money, if and when you sell your property.

So call us on 1300 011 191, or email sales@excaliburcarports.com.au, and we’ll be happy to work out the best carport kit for you.

Carport Designs

The 4 Main Carport Designs

A Simple Look at the 4 main carport designs.

As the title of this article suggests, there are 4 main type of carport designs to choose from when buying a carport kit. What’s best for your home will depend of such factors like what you actually need it for, and what best complements your house and adds value to it. So, here are the 4 types of carport kit:

1. Skillion Carport –

This is the simplest of designs, but does the job well and can look good if designed right. The roof has a single one directional pitch or slope. This is typically 3 degrees or 5 degrees, depending on the profile type of roof sheet used.

For more information go to the Skillion Carport page.

Skillion Carport Designs

2. Gable Carport –

A carport kit with a pitched roof on 2 sides. We normally supply these complete with end Gable infills for that complete look, but they can be removed for better height clearance if needed. Normal roof pitch is 15 degrees, but we can also do others, such as 10 degrees, 20 degrees and 26 degrees.

For more information go to the Gable Carport page.

Gable Carport Designs

3. Hip Roof –

These carport kits have a 4 sided pitched roof. This is the same or similar to most houses built today. Just one of the reasons they are good at adding value to your home. Standard roof pitch is 20 degrees with others possible on application.

For more information go to the Hip Roof Carport page.

Hip Roof Carport Designs

4. Dutch Gable Carport –

Similar to a Hip Roof Carport. The difference in a Dutch Gable carport is to the front and rear of the roof. Roughly half way the pitch, the roof continues vertically, which in turn forms a Dutch Gable infill to both ends. This also gives a longer ridgeline along the top, or apex of the carport. Again, like the hip roof carport, the standard roof pitch is 20 degrees with others possible on application.

For more information go to the Dutch Gable Carport page.

Dutch Gable Carport Designs

Here are a few things that separate a carport kit designs by Excalibur Carports:

  1. Choice of Sizes – You are not limited to set widths, lengths or heights. Therefore you can buy the right sized carport for your situation.
  2. Choice of Colours – You can choose from any of the colours in the Colorbond range. This means you are limited to certain colours.
  3. Fully Flashed – Proper Ridge and Barge cappings like your house has fitted, not just ones that are tacked on top like others do. An example of this is the ridge capping which is meant to be cut in to match the profile of your roof.
  4. Everything is Included – Your carport kit will come with every component you need. This includes the frame, the posts, the roof, the flashing, the gutter, the downpipe and all the fasteners.
  5. Engineering supplied - all carports include site specific engineering, to comply with any of the wind regions in Australia, including cyclonic. This alone will save you a substantial amount of money.
  6. Australian Steel Supplied – Don’t assume that everybody uses Australian made steel, even if they promote themselves and their business as Australian. Make sure you check so you know what you are getting for your money.
  7. People that know what they’re talking about – Not only do we sell carport kits, we have also installed them. That makes a big difference. We also have many years of experience supplying different configurations and sizes or carport kits. You can then have peace of mind knowing that you're getting the right carport.

If you need any more information regarding carport designs or the different types of carport kits, you can simply call us on 1300 011191 or email sales@excaliburcarports.com.au .

Standard Roof Pitch on Carport Kits

What is the Standard Roof Pitch on Carport Kits

With carport kits, the amount of roof pitch (or slope on the roof), is mainly determined by the carport design.

There are also minimum manufacturer’s requirements to refer to.
Here is a quick rundown on the different types of carports.
Dutch Gable Carport - Roof Pitch

Dutch Gable Carport – 20 Roof Pitch as standard. Other custom roof pitches available on request eg. 25 degrees. A 20 degree roof pitch works well with most existing houses. A Dutch Gable carport also scales well at a 20 degree pitch in comparison to other roof pitch angles.
Hip Roof Carport - Roof Pitch

Hip Roof Carport – 20 Roof Pitch as standard. Other custom roof pitches available on request eg. 25 degrees. Bear in mind that with if you go with a higher roof pitch for either a Hip Roof carport or Dutch Gable carport, you need to allow more time for building it as the steeper the roof, the harder it is to install.
Gable Carport - Roof Pitch

Gable Carport – 15 Degrees as standard. Other roof pitches available on request – 10 Degrees and 20 Degrees. If gable infills are included, then the length of the infill sheets are also adjusted for the pitch. Again, like a hip roof or dutch gable carport, the higher the roof pitch the longer it takes to install.
Skillion Carport - Roof Pitch

Skillion Carport – 3 Degrees and 5 Degrees as standard. Other custom roof pitches available on request. The standard roof pitches are utilised to control the minimum and maximum heights, due to the inherent design of the skillion carport. They are also the minimum roof slopes recommended for the 2 different roof sheet profiles by Bluescope Lysaght:
1. Trimdek – 3 Degrees minimum recommended
2. Custom Orb – 5 degrees minimum recommended

We hope this gives you a better idea of roof pitches in order that you can select the best carport kits for your own home.

Interesting Fact:
Custom Orb (or Corrugated Iron as it is sometimes known) roof sheets have a higher overall resistance to water flow than Trimdek roof sheets. This means that there is more weight of water on a custom orb roof for longer. This sometimes needs to be taken into account with the engineering of the carport.

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Excalibur Carports Logo

Carport Kit Orders for End of Financial Year

Hi Guys,
Just letting everyone know that we are still processing orders for carport kits before the end of the financial year.

Get in early to get to the top of the queue for steel manufacturing. We’re keen to do deals as well, if possible.

If you need to know anything about carports, give us a call on 1300 011191 or email sales@excaliburcarports.com.au

Cheers,
Keith and Ashley

Bigger range now available in Dutch Gable Carport sizes

 Available now – Bigger range in Dutch Gable Carport sizes

If you want to buy a Dutch Gable Carport in kit form, there are now more sizes to choose from than ever before.

Truth be told, you can actually get almost any size in a dutch gable carport, it’s just that the carports listed below have already been designed and drawn and approved for engineering. These now cover a wide range of width and lengths commonly asked for when enquiring about dutch gable carport prices and designs. In all these sizes the height can be adjusted up to 3m clearance as standard, with taller heights available on request. Of course you can get all the Carports in any of the genuine Colorbond Colours as well as Zincalume and your carport kit will come with every part you need to build it. Remember also, site delivery can be made to most areas in Australia.

Here is the current list of sizes available on Dutch Gable Carports, as of the date of this press release:

[table id=1 /]

No doubt the number of carports available as standard, so to speak, will continually grow to meet the demand of our customers, and this is important to us.

For current carport prices on the sizes mentioned above, please send us an enquiry through the contact us or carport quote pages, or you can call us direct on 1300 011191. However if you are after a Dutch Gable Carport in a different size, that’s great, we’ll be happy to help you out as well. For more information, go to the Dutch Gable Carport Kits page.

Thanks very much

Kind Regards,

 

Keith and Ashley

How to Quickly and Easily Add Value to Your Home With a DIY Carport Kit

Buying a diy carport is a great way to protect your car, boat or caravan, and if done right, it can also add value to your home as well.

Here are a few things to consider in getting when buying a carport kit:

  • Size – The carport must be practical in size and look right – think about the vehicles you are putting in and allow for some tolerance, particularly with height. If the carport is going near the house it’s good if it looks in scale with the house. A strongly built and designed carport always looks better than a cheaper lightweight carport.
  • Roof Type – getting the roof type to either match or complement the roof of your house is a big factor in getting the most value for money. eg. If you have a house with Dutch Gables. look at buying a Dutch Gable Carport.
  • Colours – Matching the colours of your carport kit to your house creates a seamless theme between the two structures. Excalibur Carports can offer you the entire range of Colorbond Colours to choose from, giving you a much better chance to improve your property.

The whole idea overall here is to make the carport look like it’s part of the whole environment, like it was meant to be there from the start. With a bit of thought and planning you can achieve the maximum value from your diy carport for your home.

If you have any questions or need a quote on a diy carport, give us a call on 1300 011191 or go to the carport quote page to get current carport prices.

Skillion Carport Kits – getting the roof fall direction right

Attention: Before ordering your skillion carport kit-

make sure the roof is sloping the right way for you and the guttering is on the side you want it to be.

To some people this may not sound likea big deal, but don’t get caught out ordering a carport kit then finding out the roof is not falling the right way for your house or site.

Here are a few important factors to remember:

Check which way the roof falls – The roof sheets usually fall across the width or span of a skillion carport. This is how an engineer will usually look at it.

Check which side the guttering is on – the gutttering will be at the low end of the carport so that the water from the roof sheets can be collected and sent to the downpipe.

When you fill out the enquiry form with Excalibur Carports to get a quote, we will assume the width to be the side that the roof sheets will fall across

ie. a 6m wide carport will have it’s highest point at one end of the 6m, with the low end being at the other end of the 6m

Skillion Carport Roof Fall

 

Just a little of time working out the orientation of your skillion carport can avoid any possible problems and ensure your carport goes up as you want it to.

We hope this helps. If you need any more information, please call or email us and we’d be glad to assist you with your carport kit.

Warm regards,

Keith and Ashley
Excalibur Carports

Skillion Carport Kits – Selecting the right height

Warning – make sure your skillion carport kit has enough height to fit your vehicles, boat, caravan etc.

One thing that many people do not realise when ordering  a skillion or flat roof type carport – different systems and designers have different ways to measure the height.

Some of the options are:

  • The highest point of the carport – to the top of the roof at the high end
  • Clearance height at the high end
  • Clearance at the low end
  • To top of frame at the low end

The difference between the height at the high end and the  height at the low end will depend on several factors including:

  • Amount of  roof pitch – depending on the roof sheet profile
  • Size of frame being used – this depends on the size of the structure and the wind rating required

As a simple example, a 6m Skillion carport that is listed as 2.4m high could have a height of 2.4m at the top of the frame at the high end or a clearance of 2.4m at the low end. It makes a big difference – if the 2.4m was measured at the high end the carport’s clearance at the low end would end up being under 2m, which is not practical in a lot of cases.  if the 2.4m was measured as a clearance at the low end the carport’s height at the high end may be too high for the house or site (very possibly over 3m).

As you can see it’s obvious that you ensure the carport kit has the correct height.

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If you have any questions regarding the height of your DIY skillion carport before ordering,  check with us here at Excalibur Carports and we give you the information you need to get the right height for your carport kit.

Installing diy carports on sloping driveways

Installing a diy carport on a sloping driveway

In a few cases, people have a sloping driveway and are not sure how they can build a diy carport kit over it. Well the solution is a simple one as long as you adhere to a couple of requirements:

1. Design the carport to the highest point from the ground level

– in the case of a carport, this will usually mean the posts and what size is needed to support the whole structure.
eg. if the carport is 2.4m high at one end and the driveway slopes away so that it is 3m high at the other end, the carport will need to be engineered to support a 3m height.

2. You must concrete the posts directly into the ground

– yes I know it would be handy sometimes if you could just fix some footing plates to the existing concrete/footings, but as the footing plates are designed for a 90 degree connection for their strength, they just won’t work. The solution is to either straddle the existing driveway so that the posts go into the ground either side of the concrete, or simply cut some squares out of the concrete, drill the holes, and then concrete the posts in. The result is cleaner to look at, stronger in terms of the structure, and you won’t be kicking your toes on any footing plates.

Handy Tip: Dowel into the existing concrete slab as well, so that the footings and slab will not move independently, causing high spots and trip factors.

So if you have a sloping driveway and need a carport, click on the quote link below and we’ll find a solution for your needs.

Get a Quote

Carport Kits that are Easy to Build

Simplifying Installation of Carport Kits

One of the reasons people look to buying carports in kit form is that they want a do it yourself project to do themselves.

The carport kits available from Excalibur Carports have been designed and prepared so that the assembly and installation is made as simple as possible.

 1. Consolidated and sent in one pack

Before you even start your project it’s made easier for you with all the materials arriving wrapped in one pack, so you can quickly check off your list of materials and get started.

2. Frame and posts are pre-cut and pre-punched.

This is actually a great time saver. Cutting and drilling the heavier gauge steel that’s in the posts and frame can take a considerable amount of time as well as wearing out your tools and several drill bits. With the posts and frame pre-cut and punched you can keep progressing with your carport.

3. Roof sheets and flashings cut to the lengths needed to install.

Where possible the roof sheets and flashings have been to the length you need to install the carport, so that all you need to do is some final trimming and cutting to shape.

4. Engineering drawings and/or installation guides provided

All the carports come with the engineering drawings and most come with an installation guide or manual to assist you with your project.

As with any construction job you’ll need some time to prepare and some basic tools, but with a bit of common sense, a carport kit can prove to be an excellent way to add value to your home. You get that sense of achievement, knowing that you did it yourself.

Of course there is a second option or buying the carport kit and having your local builder erect it. This can also be good as there is still a saving of time and money to be had.

 

What do I Need to Build My Carport?

To also give you an idea of what you will need to install your carport, go to the page on Carport Kits – the basic tools needed to build a diy carport kit

 

Feel free to have a look at the range of carport kits available at Excalibur Carports , and if you have any questions, please contact us or go to the carport quote page to request a quote on the carport kit for you.

 

 

Custom carports sizes available for Dutch Gable & Hip Roof Carports

Custom Dutch Gable and Hip Roof Carport sizes now here!

Looking for a dutch gable carport or a hip roof carport, but need a different size from ‘standard’?

Great News! Excalibur Carports can now offer custom carport sizes in these 2 types of carport designs. So now our customers have even more choice when it comes to DIY carports and carport kits.  Excalibur Carports is always looking to meet the needs of our customers, and has seen a growing number of enquiries for custom sizes, particularly in the hip roof carport and dutch gable carport designs. After discussions with our engineers and designers, this option is now available. Just fill in the details in the custom carport size box when you make a request for a carport quote and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Of course if there is anything else you require, please contact us and we will do our best to supply a carport kit for you.

Excalibur Carports – the DIY carport kits specialists

Carports – Things to check before you order your carport kit

It can be a very exciting time when you have decided on the right carport for your home or property. You have looked through the different types of carport kits, worked out the one you need, and now it’s just a case of ordering it. You just want to press the button, pay the deposit and get the carport kit sent. But a little extra time spent before “pressing the button’ can save you from potential headaches when your carport kit finally arrives.

Here are just some of the few key areas to check actually ordering your carport kit:

1. Size: This can seem a rather obvious thing to remember but you must make sure you order the right size carport for your site. Now to do this you must first understand how the width, length and height of your carport is actually measured –

The width and length – are they measured from gutter to gutter, or from post to post, or from fascia beam to fascia beam etc? Are they outside dimensions or centre dimensions?

Once you have the length and width you will know how the carport will fit on your block.

The height: This can be particularly important if you have a higher than normal vehicle (eg. 4WD with roof rack; caravan) as you do not want to find that after you have put the carport up, your vehicles do not fit under the actual carport! Check the clearance height of your carport kit – again, where is the height measured to, and are there any maximum height restrictions for your particular area (any council requirements, covenants)

I may be helpful to talk with your supplier about sizing dimensions so that it is clear in your mind.

2. Colours: There are 20 Colours in the colorbond range and it can be so easy to pick the wrong colour the roof or trim, or confuse the colours if more than colour is being selected (order the roof colour as the trim colour etc)

3. Embedded or Bolted Posts: Depending on your site and the type of carport, you may be able to choose whether you want the posts anchored directly into the ground or bolted to footing plates/brackets on top of the slab. Making the right choice can save you a lot of time and money and allow you to keep going with the project, since the set up of the posts is one of the first steps in erecting your carport kit.

4. Roof Type and Profile:

Roof type – The different names for the roof types can be unfamiliar to most people, so once you have decided on the type of carport , whether it is a Skillion roof, Gable roof, Dutch Gable roof or Hip Roof type, please make sure you have selected the right one.

Roof Profile – For most carports there is choice of roof profiles – Custom Orb (corrugated iron) or metal deck (Trimdek or similar). If some cases it does not matter, but if you already have a metal roof on your house, it’s beneficial to match the carports roof to your house.

The ability to match the roof type and profiles of your carport to your house has several benefits. Make it look like it was part of the whole overall plan.

5. Correct Delivery address: Obviously if the driver delivers your carport kit to the wrong address this will create some big problems. Just make sure all the spelling is correct, that the post code is included, and the street number is right. Another helpful tip is to supply a mudmap of the site and where you would like the kit pack placed, and any other special instructions that may help the driver. It’s also important in terms of engineering. Because engineering is site specific these days the details on the form and drawing must match up with that particular site.

It cannot be stressed enough the importance of getting all the details right before ordering, as once the carport kit is ordered and placed into the system, making changes can be difficult or impossible, particularly if manufacturing has begun. However that little bit of extra time can ensure that you have a smooth journey from ordering your carport kit to seeing it arrive at your doorstep.

Carport Kits – The basic tools needed to build a diy carport kit

Making the job of building a diy carport easy

“Give us the tools and we will finish the job”

The words of this famous quote also ring very true when it comes to building – if you have the right tools you have a much better chance of not only finishing the job, but finishing it well.

Here are some of the tools that you may need:

1. Drill – Either a power drill or cordless drill. Most professional installers and roofers prefer cordless drills and use them as their main tool of choice. The main advantages are:
• No power cords, thus making them less obtrusive and safer
• A variable clutch setup, allowing you to adjust the torque setting for the various sized screws
Please note: Get a cordless drill with enough capacity to do the job. A drill that comes with 2 batteries is also more convenient.
2. Screw or Tek gun – Again, in corded or cordless varieties. These are specifically made for fastening tek screws, which are used in many parts of carport kits.
3. Hammer Drill – for concrete drilling when you are using on-slab type brackets
4. Steel cut off saw and/or grinder
5. Left and right handed tin snips – buy good quality snips, it’s makes a big difference to the time taken and the level of finish on carport kits
6. Tape Measure
7. Various Sockets and Spanners
8. Rivet Gun
9. Tape Measure
10. Spirit Level
11. Laser Level – you can hire these if you don’t want to buy one
12. Various drill and hex head bits
13. String and Chalk Lines
14. Ladders, Trestles, Scaffold, Scissor Lift or Duct Lift – these can also be hired for the job
15. Markers, Pens and Pencils
16. Silicone gun and silicone – for sealing of guttering etc.
17. Shovel or posthole digger – for digging the post holes or footings
18. Concrete – for those post holes or footings
19. Acro props or similar – an option, to aid with the posts and/or structure as the concrete sets
20. Safety Gear – This may be steel cap boots, ear muffs, safety eyewear, gloves and anything else you believe you need to make the job safe

And finally, make sure all safety precautions have been carried out before starting your project

So, now that you’ve got the right tools or know what you need, feel free to have a look around the site. If there is a carport kit you are interested in, simply fill out the enquiry form or contact us directly by calling Ph. 07 5525 1111 or by email at sales@excaliburcarports.com.au

Carport Kits – Building a Carport Kit

With the right planning, building a carport kit can be simple
The amount of work needed to build carport kits will depend on a few factors.
The main ones are:
• The site you are building your carport kit on
• How well the carport has been designed
• Your level of skill and tools needed
1.  The site you are building your carport kit on:
Is the site level or do you have to build the carport to suit the terrain? eg.sloping driveway Remember that you need extra time to set the posts to the correct heights with a site that is not level.
– How you are fixing the carport to the ground –
Carports are normally anchored by one of two methods:
• To a existing concrete slab with footings, using brackets
• Concreting the posts directly into the ground
Fixing to brackets is usually quicker to do, but concreting the posts directly into the ground can have advantages in regards to less movement in winds etc.
2.  How well the carport kit has been designed:
Clever carport designs utilise a simple layout that is easy to follow. Carport kits in the main will come with the relevant engineering drawings, a bill of materials and possibly also an instruction manual to assist you with the installation. All the materials are supplied cut to near or exact length and most of the larger frame components will arrive pre-punched at their connection points, so these will normally just bolt together. The rest of the materials will either simply screw together with various sizes of tek screws, or be fixed with rivets.
3.  Your level of skill and tools needed
Whilst a carport is not the same complexity as say a house, you need to have some level of competency to complete your project. Don’t be put off however, into thinking you cannot do it yourself. With some common sense, patience and the right tools you can do a job to be proud of. As mentioned above, the documentation included with your carport will also assist you. It is also recommended that you check with your local authorities with regards to any licensing requirements you may need to install carports.
There’s a basic range of tools needed to erect your carport kit. Some are more important than others, either to help to speed up the process, or to get a better finish. For more details see the article titled: Carport Kits – the tools needed to get the job done.
We hope that this information helps you with building your own carport kit. If you need prices and details on our range of carport kits, simply send us an email through the enquiry form, or contact us directly by calling Ph. 07 5525 1111

Carport Kits – Why a well designed and pre-engineered carport kit will save you time and money

Pre-Engineered Carport Kits

Carports are a very popular addition to any house these days.

The engineering design requirements for them are integral to you achieving what you want at your home

In years gone past a lot of carports were done without any design or approval process. If a builder had built it, chances are it was good, but the cost might have been high, due to more materials being used than what was needed. There were also a lot of other carports that simply shouldn’t have been built, due to poor construction or inferior materials being used.
However today, with better materials and better research, a lot more is known about designing a carport that is strong enough for your area, and is economical to build. Regulations also now in place dictate that a carport be correctly designed and certified by a suitably skilled and qualified person.

Choosing carport kits that are pre-engineered can save you a substantial amount of money and time. Here are some reasons why:

• The design has been done – Your carport has gone through the design process by a structural engineer to bring you a carport design that is not only pleasing to the eye, but will also pass the building standards, and wind and weather conditions for your particular site.
• The design drawings have been done – Most engineers employ a separate draftsperson to transform their design onto paper. Design drawings are now required to be done by a licenced person to obtain approval, and their time and skill comes at a price.
• Pre-engineered carport kits are good value for money – achieving a carport design that is strong enough (but economical on materials), looks great and is simple to install does take a high level of skill. Structural engineers who specialise in carports and similar structures know the best way to design them. They’ve done the research of choosing the best materials, and can provide you with the best carport kit for your money.
• Pre-engineered carports can be ready to submit for council approval within days, not weeks or months – all the hard work has already been done, it’s a simple case of adding your details to the engineering forms and drawings, and you are ready to go.

Feel free to look around this website and see our a range of carports that are pre-engineered and are guaranteed to save you money for your project.

Carports and Carport Kits – 3 reasons why buying a Carport Kit will save you time and money

If you are in the market for a carport, pre-fabricated carport kits can be a great option.

Now you may be thinking “couldn’t I just design and build a carport myself?”
Well…. Here are just 3 of the benefits of buying carports in kit form:

1.  Carport Kits come pre-cut and pre-punched
Have you ever made something completely from scratch where you had to cut or drill every part of what you were making? How long did it take you? How much material did you have to buy?

Carports that are pre-cut and pre-punched give you the best value for money out there.
• Minimal amount of wastage involved. You only pay for the steel that you need, and not the excess steel if you were to buy the set lengths and cut them down.
• Saves you time when installing, as most of the work of drilling and cutting the steel has been done. You will also save money if you use contractors or installers because they can erect the carport in much quicker time than if they are making it up from scratch.
• Carport kits come with all the brackets that you need to connect the carport together correctly, saving you money and time if you had to get the brackets fabricated yourself.

2.  The engineering for carports in kit form is already done
A much bigger benefit than some people realise.
It saves you the time of having it designed, drawn up, and certified by an engineer.
It also saves you a substantial amount of money.

Custom engineered carport designs  and sizes are also sometimes available today. There may be engineering factors to consider, and sometimes extra cost, though this is usually minimal.

3.  Carport kits can be delivered complete to your door
Carports in kit form can usually be delivered to most areas, and for a very reasonable charge. You don’t have to drive around sourcing various materials from multiple suppliers, trying to get the best deal, using your valuable time and wearing your car out.

There are many more reasons for buying a carport kit over making one from scratch. Why not use what is readily available to you today, to get the best deal and the best carport for you.

Excalibur Carports

The Carport Kits specialists

Thank you for visiting the site of Excalibur Carports – we’re glad you found us!

Excalibur Carports is committed to supplying and delivering top quality carport kits direct to your door, at competitive prices, and that will add value to your property.

Choose from the range of skillion carports, gable carports, dutch gable carports or hip roof carports to give you a structure that will match in with your house. We are sure that you will find a carport that will meet your needs.

Once you know which type of carport you want, call or email us and we will endevour to answer your questions and provide you with a carport made from quality Australian steel that will last you a lifetime.