2021 Carports are essential for protecting vehicles from intense sun heat, UV rays, and weather elements (like dust and rain). Carports vary in design, materials used, and regulatory requirements. 1. Most Popular Types of Carports and Their Materials | Type | Material / Description | Advantages | Disadvantages | |-|-|-|-|-| | Fabric (PVC) Carports | High-density treated fabric (German, Korean, or local) with weights ranging from 680 to 1100 grams. | • Excellent heat and light insulation. • Water and flame resistant. • Economical cost and high durability. | • May be affected over many years if the material is not original. | | Polyethylene Carports | Durable mesh fabric that allows light airflow. | • Reduces shade heat through ventilation. • Affordable prices and a wide variety of colors. | • Allows rain spray and does not insulate 100% from water. | | Lexan Carports | Shatterproof transparent or frosted polycarbonate sheets. | • Modern and elegant appearance. • Allows light while blocking UV rays. • Impact resistant. | • Relatively higher cost than PVC fabrics. | | Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) Carports | Slats or woven from a mixture of treated wood and plastic. | • Luxurious aesthetic appeal. • Resistant to termites and moisture, and does not require regular painting. | • High cost, and requires strong iron structures. | | Iron / Galvalume Carports | Galvanized or insulated iron sheets (sandwich panel). | • High strength and long lifespan. • Sandwich panels provide superior thermal insulation. | • Ordinary galvalume appearance is less attractive, and its weight is heavy. | | Retractable Carports (Electric / Prefabricated) | Foldable arms (manual or with electric motor and remote). | • Can be opened and closed when needed. • Saves space and does not mar the facade. | • Affected by strong winds if left open. | 2. Frame Shapes and Designs * Cantilever Carports: Supported by columns on one side only without front columns, considered best for parking lots to facilitate entry and exit. * Pyramid (Dome / Tent) Carports: Characterized by their height and fluidity, preventing the accumulation of rainwater or dust. * Conical (Tensile Structure) Carports: Often used in large spaces, complexes, and modern villas for their distinctive architectural look. * Curved Carports (Shoulder / Semi-circle): Very common and practical within the walls of houses and villas. 3. Municipal Regulations (When Installing Outside the Fence) If you plan to install a carport in front of the house (on the street or sidewalk), you must adhere to the municipal regulations issued through the "Baladi" platform to avoid violations or removal: * Street Width: The street width must generally not be less than 15 meters (according to municipal classification). * Installation: The carport must be attached to the building's fence without ground columns obstructing pedestrian movement on the sidewalk, or according to approved models with columns placed directly adjacent to the fence. * Height and Projection: The clear height of the carport must not be less than 3 meters to ensure passage for service vehicles, and the projection must not exceed the boundaries of the designated parking space. * Design and Shape: Use colors and designs consistent with the area's urban code, and avoid using poor-quality materials or those that distort the visual landscape. * Licensing: Obtain a carport installation permit through the Baladi platform before commencing construction. 4. Important Tips Before Contracting and Installation * Iron Thickness and Paint Type: Ensure the thickness of the tubes and pipes is not less than 2 to 2.5 mm, and specify that the structure be painted with heat-resistant or epoxy anti-rust paint. Galvanization is preferred if you are in a coastal city. * Method