A concrete carport can be a useful addition to any home. These carports are structured with cement slabs as floors. Concrete is a convenient and durable material that can be fashioned into just about any shape or dimension on a flat surface. However, hiring a contractor can be an expensive endeavor within the realm of home improvement.

Creating a cement carport can be done by anyone who is not afraid a little manual labor. With just a few simple skills that can be learned quickly, pouring your own slab can become a reality. With the proper tools, the correct grade of cement, good preparation, and forming, pouring a cement slab can be well within the grasp of the average homeowner.

Probably the most crucial aspect of pouring a cement slab for concrete carports is creating the proper forms. Most forms are made from planks of wood. Therefore, some very basic carpentry skills are needed. Correctly measuring and cutting the wooden planks will allow the concrete to be poured at the recommended depth and proper dimensions.

Once properly formed, the concrete can be poured and finished. Mixing the concrete with the correct amount of water is important. It is usually best to rent a portable mixer from local equipment rental facility. Equipment rental shops will usually provide detailed instructions on how to use the concrete mixers. Finishing the slab requires the use of floats for a smooth surface.

If the drab look of natural concrete is not desired for cement carports, then staining the concrete may be a more preferable solution. Staining concrete requires the use of special acid stains that react with the chemicals found in the concrete to create alternative colors. The only contraindications to acid staining concrete are if the slab has been sealed, or if acid has been previously used to etch the cement.

A more decorative alternative to a simple concrete slab is one that is made of brick. A Brick carport can create an air of elegance that not only enhances the look of the carport, but is a nice addition to the home itself. However, bricks require a bit more skill to lay. Some experience and knowledge is needed to work successfully with brick and mortar. Brick carports can be expensive due to the price of brick in today’s marketplace.

The frame and canopy of the concrete or brick shelters can be permanently anchored within the slab itself. This can make the carport permanent adjunct to the home. Therefore, the use of durable materials such as aluminum or other rust resistant metals or hard plastics may be recommended.

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