If you’ve been shopping for vehicle shelter, you’ve probably seen the terms “garaport” and “carport” used interchangeably. They’re not the same thing — and understanding the difference could save you thousands and give you a much better building.
What Is a Garaport?
A garaport is a hybrid structure that combines a fully enclosed garage section with an open carport section under one continuous roofline. Think of it as a garage with an attached covered parking area — one building, two functions.
The enclosed section gives you secure, lockable storage (for your good car, tools, or workshop space), while the open section provides weather protection for everyday vehicles, boats, caravans, or trailers without the cost of full enclosure.
What Is a Carport?
A carport is simply a roof structure supported by posts — open on at least two sides, often all four. It provides overhead weather protection (rain, hail, sun) but no security and limited wind protection.
Garaport vs Carport: Side by Side
| Feature | Garaport | Carport |
|---|---|---|
| Enclosed section | ✅ Yes — lockable garage | ❌ No |
| Open section | ✅ Yes — carport attached | ✅ Yes — that’s all it is |
| Security | Partial — enclosed section | None |
| Wind protection | Good (enclosed) + partial (open) | Minimal |
| Cost | More than carport, less than full garage | Lowest option |
| Council approval | Usually required (enclosed component) | Often exempt under certain sizes |
| Resale value | Higher — adds usable enclosed space | Moderate |
When to Choose a Garaport
- You need both secure storage and open vehicle shelter
- You want a workshop in the enclosed section with covered outdoor space for bigger projects
- Your budget doesn’t stretch to a fully enclosed shed but you want more than just a carport
- You’re on an acreage or rural property where the garaport doubles as farm vehicle cover plus locked tool storage
- You want to protect a caravan or boat under the open section while keeping the garage for the daily driver
Garaport Sizes and Costs
- Single garage + single carport (6m x 9m total): $6,000–$12,000 kit supply
- Double garage + double carport (12m x 9m total): $12,000–$22,000 kit supply
- Triple garage + extended carport (15m x 9m total): $18,000–$30,000 kit supply
All kit prices include steel frame, COLORBOND® cladding, roller door(s), and certified engineering. See our garaport range or design yours online.
FAQs
Can I enclose the carport section later?
Yes — if the garaport is engineered for the potential to enclose later. Mention this at the design stage so the frame is sized to handle the additional wind loads of a fully enclosed building.
Do I need council approval for a garaport?
In most cases, yes. The enclosed garage section triggers building approval requirements. Some states have exemptions for small carport-only structures, but the combined garaport generally requires a development application. See our council approval guide.
What’s the best garaport layout?
Most popular: enclosed garage on one side (or the back), open carport on the other (or the front). This gives you drive-through potential — in through the open section, park in the garage or drive out the other side.
