How deep should a carport be?

Determining the ideal depth for a carport essentially depends on the level of protection you want it to provide. If it's too shallow, the front or back of your car will be exposed to the rain, rendering the carport useless.

When deciding on the depth, you can consider the following practical points:

1. Based on "Vehicle Length"

This is the most basic logic. You need to measure the length of the longest car in your household.
Basic Coverage: The carport's depth should be at least slightly longer than your car. If it's only exactly the same length as the car, even a slight slant of rain will still wet your bumper or trunk.
Allowing for Movement: Ideally, when the car is parked, there should be some space left at both the front and back, allowing you to unload items or walk around the car without getting wet in the rain.

2. Consider the Space Needed for "Opening the Trunk"

Many people forget this step when planning the depth of their carport.
If you usually park your car headfirst into the carport, when you open the trunk of an SUV or hatchback to retrieve items, the trunk lid might extend into the rain if the depth is insufficient.
The recommended depth should take into account the total length when the trunk is fully open, so that loading and unloading groceries is convenient.

3. Multifunctional Needs: More than just parking a car

If you plan to use the carport for more than just parking a car, the depth needs to be increased:
Storage of Sundries: Many people like to place garbage cans, lawnmowers, or a row of bicycles against the wall at the back of the carport. In this case, you need to add the width of these items to the car's length.
Workspace: If you plan to put a workbench in front of your car for doing some DIY work, the depth needs to be extended further.

4. Sun Angle Considerations

In Australia or places with strong sunlight, the sun doesn't always shine directly down.
If your carport is just the right size, the afternoon sun will shine directly into the carport, making the front of your car scorching hot.
A slightly deeper roof can provide better shade coverage, keeping the car in the shade even when the sun is at an angle.

5. Common Life Scenarios for Reference

Single Car Space:  It should typically be large enough to easily park a family car, allowing you to walk around the car with shopping bags.
Large Vehicles: If you own a pickup truck with a trailer (Ute) or a small RV, the depth requirement will increase significantly. If you currently drive a small car but plan to upgrade to a larger one in the future, it's advisable to allocate sufficient depth now to avoid future regrets.

6. Terrain and Boundary Limitations

While you might want to build a deeper carport, you also need to consider the size of your front yard.
Be aware that the carport cannot extend onto the sidewalk or be too close to your neighbor's fence.
Before starting construction, it's best to use a rope to mark out a frame on the ground, park your car inside, and experience firsthand whether entry and exit are convenient before deciding on the final depth.