Owning a home in Tennessee comes with choices. Where to park. How to protect your vehicles. Garages are great—but not always practical. That’s where carport services in Tennessee step in. Affordable. Flexible. And they get the job done.

A carport is simple. It’s a covered structure—open on the sides—that shields cars, trucks, even boats from sun, rain, and hail. No more scraping ice off windshields at 6 a.m. No more baking hot steering wheels in July. It’s not just convenience. It’s protection.

Here’s the thing. Carports aren’t one-size-fits-all. You’ve got options. Metal or wood. Attached to your house or freestanding in the yard. Single car. Double. Even oversized for RVs. Professional carport services in Tennessee help design, build, and install a setup that fits your space and budget.

And it’s not only about parking. A carport doubles as outdoor storage. Lawn equipment. Tools. Even a shaded spot for family cookouts. With the right setup, you’re adding value and function to your home. That’s why more Tennessee homeowners are going for carports instead of costly full garages.

Key Takeaways

• Expect to spend $3,500 to $12,000+ for a custom carport in Tennessee.

• Metal carports = cheaper. Wood or brick = pricier but prettier.

• Permits, prep work, and extras can add hundreds (sometimes thousands).

• Carport vs garage? Comes down to cost, security, and what you really need.

• Hiring local carport pros keeps you safe from code issues (and headaches).

Understanding the Cost of Installing a Custom Carport in Tennessee

When you google “cost of installing a custom carport Tennessee,” you’ll find a wide range of numbers. Why? Because no two builds are the same.

A prefab carport from a catalog is one thing. A fully custom build with storage, lighting, and a fancy roof? Totally different ballgame.

Average Costs You’ll See Around the State

• Basic metal, single-car: $3,500 – $6,000

• Mid-range custom, two-car with nicer roofline: $6,500 – $9,500

• High-end wood or brick with storage closet, lights, trim: $10,000 – $18,000+

And remember—that’s just the “build.” Doesn’t include site prep or permits.

What Drives the Price Up (or Down)

1. Size. Bigger means more material. More labor too.

2. Material. Steel is tough and cheap. Wood looks sharp but costs more. Brick? Pricey but lasts.

3. Design. Simple = less money. Complex roofs and storage bump it up fast.

4. Prep Work. Uneven land or concrete foundations aren’t free.

5. Permits. $150–$500 depending on county.

Point is—budget for more than just the carport itself.

Carport vs Garage: Which Is Better in Tennessee?

Every homeowner asks this. “Carport vs garage which is better Tennessee?” Well, let’s compare.

Cost Breakdown

• Carport: $3,500–$12,000.

• Garage: $20,000–$40,000+.

Yep. Big difference.

Pros and Cons

• Carports – Quick build. Affordable. Great for cars, RVs, even backyard cookouts. Downside? Open-air, less security.

• Garages – Adds storage, home value, and full protection. Downside? The price tag. And it takes way longer to build.

What Works Best in Tennessee?

If you just need weather protection—hail, sun, Tennessee storms—a custom carport is usually enough. If you want long-term storage and resale boost? A garage pays off.

Hidden Costs Nobody Tells You About

This is where homeowners get caught off guard. The cost of installing a custom carport in Tennessee isn’t just about beams and roofing.

Site Prep

• Grading: $500 – $2,500.

• Concrete slab: $4–$8 per sq. ft.

• Tree removal: $200 – $1,500.

Permits

Counties like Davidson and Knox are strict. Fees run $150–$500. Takes time too.

Add-Ons

• Lighting: $500 – $2,000.

• Gutters: $250 – $750.

• Storage room: $1,500 – $4,000.

They’re optional. But once you see the options—it’s tempting.

Design Choices That Change the Price

The look you choose matters. A lot.

Roof Styles

• Flat: Cheapest. $3–$5 per sq. ft.

• Gable: Tennessee favorite. $4–$8 per sq. ft.

• Hip: Sleek, durable. $6–$12 per sq. ft.

Finishes

Want wood trim, vinyl siding, or brick posts? Adds beauty. And a few thousand to the bill.

Local Trends

• Rustic wood designs for farmhouses.

• Solar-ready carports (yes, people do it).

• RV-sized overhangs in rural areas.

How to Keep Costs Down

Nobody wants to overspend. Here’s how to keep things under control.

Get 3 Quotes

At least three. Prices jump a lot between contractors.

Stick to Standard Sizes

Custom cuts = more waste. More waste = more money.

DIY Some Prep

Clear brush. Move small obstacles yourself. Saves $500 easy.

Plan for Upgrades Later

Start simple. Add extras later when budget allows.

Carports Services Tennessee: Why Local Matters

Out-of-state builders don’t get it. Tennessee weather is tricky. And codes vary county to county. That’s why working with carports services Tennessee homeowners already trust is key.

Why Go Local?

• They know storm risks (hail, winds).

• They understand soil conditions.

• They’ve dealt with your county permit office before.

What to Look For

• Licensed. Insured.

• A solid portfolio.

• Clear contract with costs upfront.

• Warranty included.

Step-by-Step Build Process

1. Site check. Drainage, grading, access.

2. Design decisions. Pick materials, roof, extras.

3. Permits filed.

4. Foundation poured.

5. Frame + roof installed.

6. Extras added—paint, wiring, storage.

7. Final inspection. Done.

Usually takes a few days for basic builds. A week or two for custom.

Real Tennessee Stories

• Knoxville: Single metal carport, 20x20, concrete slab. Total: $7,200.

• Memphis: Brick + wood with storage closet. $14,500.

• Chattanooga rural: RV-sized extended roof. $9,800.

See the range? Same state, different costs.

FAQs

1. Do I need a permit?
Most counties say yes. Budget $150–$500.

2. How long does it take?
Anywhere from 2 days to 2 weeks, depending on design.

3. What’s the cheapest option?
Single-vehicle, metal, no concrete. Around $3,500.

4. Will it raise my home’s value?
Not like a garage. But yes, curb appeal and convenience help.

5. Can I upgrade later?
Sure. Many start simple then add storage or walls later.

Conclusion

The cost of installing a custom carport in Tennessee isn’t a flat number. Could be $3,500. Could be $15,000+. Depends on size, material, extras, and where you live.

Carport vs garage? Carport wins for budget. Garage wins for storage. Either way—you want it built right.

Call to Action

Thinking about a carport? Don’t guess on the numbers. Contact our Tennessee team today for a free consultation. Get a real quote, clear plan, and no surprises.