Owning a classic car is a huge responsibility. Driving, maintaining and storing the vehicle are all high stakes. An automobile with such sentimental and monetary value deserves the best protection available. You need to get creative if you don’t have a garage or storage facility. Here are two viable DIY home storage options for your classic car.
How to Build a Carport
A carport is a stylish way to store your classic car. It doesn’t offer much concealment, but it still protects the vehicle from harsh weather and UV rays. Carports are so attractive because they allow you to access the car whenever you want. It’s still outside but has an overhead roof to block the elements.
Unlike other long-term storage options, you don’t have to worry about pesky mouse infestations, undiagnosed fluid leaks or condensation issues. The car will stay clean and healthy with basic routine maintenance. Plus, it turns the driveway into a versatile storage space for other items.
Carports are available for purchase in the $1,200 to $5,000 range. Follow these steps if you want to take a DIY approach to save money.
1. Prepare the Ground
The carport should be at least 16-by-9 feet for the average car. Expand the dimensions as much as necessary if you want to store multiple vehicles, but ensure you’re not building over any pipes or power lines. Clear and level the ground, then add a layer of landscaping fabric and gravel. Make sure everything is symmetrical before moving to the next step.
2. Dig the Post Holes
The carport will have four or six posts, depending on its size. Use a post-hole digger to drill 2-4 feet deep into the ground. Fill the holes with concrete tubing forms and level each post’s footing at 1 inch above ground level. The footings will evenly distribute the structure’s weight and lighten the load on the posts.
3. Pour Concrete and Install Posts
Make a concrete mixture in a wheelbarrow, per the bag’s instructions. Pour it into the footings and put an anchor bolt in the center of each one before the mixture hardens. Fill any remaining space around the tubing forms with gravel, let the concrete set and attach the posts to their anchors with a power drill. The posts should be at least 8 feet tall.
You might have to install shims between the posts and anchors if there’s extra wiggle room. Attach each post one at a time and ensure they’re all the same height. Trim them with a power saw if you need to make adjustments.
4. Connect the Beams and Rafters
Cut the four side beams to their appropriate lengths and attach them horizontally to the outside of the posts. Once they are in place, cut six to eight rafters and install them in 3-foot increments along the top of the beams. You will need galvanized joist hangers to attach the rafters to each other.
5. Install the Gutter and Roof
Measure the gutter to match the carport’s lowest side and attach it to the side beam. Then, connect the downspout to the same side and direct it toward your property’s nearest stormwater drain. Drill plywood roof boards to the rafters and apply caulk to ensure a watertight seal. Add the shingles, then stain everything to give it another protective layer.
The result will be a pavilion-like structure with open sides. The construction is straightforward and should only take a few days. This DIY carport will protect your classic car from the elements and may substantially increase your home’s curb appeal and resale value.
Portable Garage
Portable garages are tent-like temporary plastic structures that you can easily assemble and disassemble. The price varies from $250 to more than $2,000.
The best portable garages accommodate various vehicles and often double as shelters for outdoor activities. However, despite their convenience, you can’t just put one up in your driveway and expect it to provide full protection. You need to take some extra precautions.
1. Consider Your Climate
A cheap portable garage won’t withstand harsh weather conditions for long. Heavy rain and winds will poke holes in the plastic. Suppose you live in a region with harsh winters or lots of precipitation. In that case, you need to look for heavy-duty versions with alpine frames, steel stabilizers, multiple polyethylene layers and other protective features.
Additionally, you should try stationing your garage in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight. The plastic doesn’t offer much shade and sunlight could fade your car’s paint over time. Shade will also prevent the car’s interior from overheating on hot summer days.
2. Secure the Garage to the Ground
You must secure your garage to the ground with nails, stakes or weights. You don’t want a strong gust of wind to carry it away. Ensure the four corners are secure and don’t lift off the ground for any reason.
3. Account for Condensation
Portable garages don’t have ideal ventilation when closed. Your classic car will still be vulnerable to condensation, which could lead to mold and mildew if left unchecked. Consider weatherstripping the car’s doors and windows to prevent moisture from getting inside. Some people also put dehumidifiers inside their garages to keep the environment from getting too stuffy.
Protect Your Prized Possession
Your classic car is one of your most prized possessions, so treat it as such. A carport is the way to go if you’re looking for a permanent home storage solution, and a portable garage is a simple and affordable temporary option. Both structures will protect your car from the elements and keep it in good driving condition for years to come.
