A carport is a repeated bay module. The module sets column spacing, roof height, drainage and cost; get it right once and the whole row works.
These reference views show a ridge-and-valley roof over a double row, repeating conical peaks and a cantilever along a building.
Project snapshot
| Item | Reference scope |
|---|---|
| Application | Car parking, staff parking, bus parking |
| Typical bay | 2.5 × 5.0 m per car; 3.5 × 12 m per bus |
| Clear height | 2.3–2.8 m for cars; 3.5–4.5 m for buses |
| Forms | Ridge-and-valley, conical peaks, cantilever |
| Membrane and frame | PVC/PVDF on galvanised steel |
What the design has to solve
- Keep columns between bays. They should sit outside the door-opening zone and be protected from reversing vehicles.
- Drain each low point. Water should not run along the underside of the membrane or drip onto the aisle.
- Check uplift at row ends. End bays and corner columns see higher wind loads than the middle of the row.
- Allow for hail, snow and future lighting. The module should be able to carry lights, cabling and, where planned, solar panels.
Roof forms in this reference set
Repeating conical peaks
Each conical unit gives a bay its own high point and perimeter drain. The form is stiff, sheds water well and can be extended bay by bay without changing the existing roof.
Cantilever along a building
A cantilevered canopy keeps the parking aisle free of columns. The building must take the overturning moment, and the base detail must protect the facade from water.
Materials and delivery
PVC/PVDF is the standard cover for carports: cost-effective, easy to clean and available in light colours that reduce heat beneath the roof.
- PVC/PVDF 850–1100 g/m², white or light grey
- Hot-dip galvanised steel frame
- Stainless cables and fittings at exposed edges
Frequently asked questions
How much does a membrane carport cost per bay?
It depends on span, height, membrane grade and foundations. A repeated standard module is significantly cheaper per bay than a one-off design.
Can it fit an existing parking layout?
Yes, but the column positions must be checked against the actual bay markings and door-opening zones. A site survey is needed first.
Is it suitable for snow?
Yes, where the structure and membrane are designed for the local snow load, including drift and asymmetric loading.
Discuss a similar project
Send the parking layout, number of bays, required clear height and site location. We will review the module, roof form and a reference quotation.
Related reading: Tensile membrane carport canopy
