The roof is the decision that changes a steel building's look and lifespan the most. We offer three styles: good, better and best. Here is how they compare.
Regular roof (good)
Rounded eaves with panels that lay horizontally across the trusses, running front to back. It is the most economical style and common for carports and smaller projects. Since crews can only travel with panels up to a certain length, a regular roof over 36′ has a horizontal seam and can't be warrantied or guaranteed against leaking. Under 36′ it is a very cost-efficient way to complete your project.
A-Frame roof (better)
Very similar to the regular roof, with an A-frame profile and a standard 6″ eave overhang, much like the roof of a house. The panels still lay horizontally, so the same 36′ rule applies. Choose it when you want a garage or carport that matches the house without paying for a vertical roof.
Vertical roof (best)
The same 6″ eave overhang as the A-Frame, but the panels run from the ridge down to the eave. To do that, hat-channel purlins are installed across the trusses. It is considered the best design because it sheds rain, snow and debris down the ribs of the panels: think "bowling lanes" instead of "speed bumps" for anything landing on your roof. We recommend it for buildings over 36′, for heavy-rain or snow areas, and for any building you want to keep for decades.
How much the price changes
An example from our official price guide: a 20′ × 21′ carport with 6′ legs is $2,310 with a regular roof, $2,450 with an A-Frame roof and $3,000 with a vertical roof. See every size in the price guide.
Quick rule
| If your building is | Choose |
|---|---|
| A short, budget carport in mild weather | Regular |
| A garage next to the house | A-Frame or vertical |
| More than 36′ long | Vertical |
| In snow country or heavy rain | Vertical |
Colors and trim
All three styles come in our 17 colors, with matching or contrasting trim. Try combinations in the color visualizer or switch the roof live in the 3D Builder.