Double Carport vs Single Carport: Best Choice for Summerville, SC
By Dubya Carports | October 11, 2026 | 8 min read
For most Summerville, SC homeowners, a double carport offers better long-term value and flexibility than a single carport, providing covered parking for two vehicles plus extra storage space for lawn equipment, boats, or recreational gear. While single carports cost less upfront, the modest price difference makes double carports the smarter investment for families planning to stay in their homes for years to come.
What's the Difference Between Single and Double Carports?
A single carport typically measures 12 feet wide and provides covered protection for one standard vehicle, while a double carport spans 18-24 feet wide to accommodate two vehicles side by side. The structural framework remains similar—both use vertical posts and a roof system—but double carports require additional support posts and longer roof panels to cover the wider span. In Summerville's humid climate with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and intense summer sun, both options provide essential protection against weather-related vehicle damage, but the double carport gives you significantly more versatility for the additional square footage.
How Much Does Each Option Cost in Summerville, SC?
Single carports in the Summerville area typically range from $1,800 to $3,500 installed, while double carports generally cost between $3,200 and $6,500 depending on size, roof style, and customization options. As an authorized Eagle Carports dealer, Dubya Carports offers heavy-gauge 2x2 square tube metal carports that provide superior strength compared to lighter-gauge alternatives commonly sold in the Lowcountry region. The price difference between single and double units is often only $1,500 to $2,000—a relatively small investment when you consider the additional 12 feet of width and the long-term utility you gain. For homeowners in neighborhoods like Ashborough, Cane Bay Plantation, or Nexton, this modest upfront difference can translate into significant added home value and daily convenience.
If you're ready to discuss which carport configuration works best for your Summerville property, call Dubya Carports at (803) 855-1857 to schedule a free consultation and get a detailed quote based on your specific needs.
Which Size Works Best for Summerville Properties?
Double carports are generally the better choice for Summerville homeowners who own two vehicles, store outdoor equipment, or plan to remain in their homes for more than a few years. Summerville's growing population and family-friendly neighborhoods mean most households have at least two vehicles, and parking one outside while the other sits under a single carport defeats much of the purpose. Beyond vehicles, residents frequently need covered storage for boats (popular given Summerville's proximity to Lake Moultrie and the Cooper River), RVs, lawn tractors, and the outdoor furniture that needs protection from the area's high humidity and frequent rain. A double carport provides the flexibility to park one vehicle and dedicate the other bay to storage, or to park two vehicles during severe weather events like tropical storms that occasionally impact the Lowcountry.
What About Lot Size and Placement Restrictions?
Most Summerville residential lots can easily accommodate either single or double carports, but you should verify your property's setback requirements and homeowner association rules before purchasing. Orangeburg County and the Town of Summerville have specific zoning regulations regarding accessory structures, typically requiring carports to be set back at least 5-10 feet from property lines and sometimes limiting the total square footage of outbuildings. Double carports require roughly 20-24 feet of width plus clearance space, which fits comfortably on standard half-acre to one-acre lots common throughout Summerville subdivisions. For narrow lots or properties with limited side-yard space, a single carport might be your only practical option, though many homeowners find creative placement solutions such as positioning the carport behind the main house or alongside an existing driveway.
How Do Metal Carports Hold Up in Summerville's Climate?
Heavy-gauge metal carports perform exceptionally well in Summerville's hot, humid subtropical climate, resisting the rot, termites, and moisture damage that can plague wooden structures in the Lowcountry. The 2x2 square tube construction offered through Eagle Carports provides superior wind resistance—an important consideration given that Summerville sits roughly 25 miles inland from the coast and can experience tropical storm winds during hurricane season. Metal roofing reflects summer heat rather than absorbing it, and the galvanized steel framework won't warp or deteriorate from the humidity that persists throughout spring and summer months. Both single and double carports offer this durability advantage, but the double carport's additional posts actually increase structural stability in high winds. For homeowners who prefer a more traditional aesthetic, Dubya Carports also offers pine pole barns that blend rustic charm with functional covered parking, though metal remains the lower-maintenance choice for most applications.
Can You Upgrade a Single Carport to Double Later?
While technically possible, expanding a single carport to a double carport later is rarely cost-effective and typically requires significant modification or complete replacement. The roof panels, support posts, and foundation anchoring are all designed for the specific width of the original structure, so adding width means replacing most components rather than simply adding on. You'll spend nearly as much on the conversion as you would have spent purchasing a double carport initially, plus you'll pay for removal and disposal of the original single carport components. This is why most contractors, including Dubya Carports, recommend choosing the larger size from the start if there's any possibility you'll need the extra space within the next 5-10 years. The modest upfront investment in a double carport saves you from expensive retrofitting projects down the road and ensures you have adequate coverage as your storage needs evolve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How wide should a double carport be for two full-size trucks in Summerville?
A double carport should be at least 20-22 feet wide to comfortably fit two full-size pickup trucks side by side with enough room to open doors. For larger trucks like F-250s or Silverado 2500s common in Summerville, consider a 24-foot width for easier access and maneuverability.
Do I need a building permit for a carport in Summerville, SC?
Most carport installations in Summerville require a building permit, especially for structures over 200 square feet or those with permanent foundations. Contact the Town of Summerville Building Department or Orangeburg County (depending on your exact location) to verify specific permit requirements before installation.
Can a double carport increase my Summerville home's resale value?
Yes, a quality double carport typically adds $3,000-$8,000 to your home's resale value in the Summerville market, particularly in neighborhoods where covered parking is not standard. Buyers appreciate the protection from weather and the additional storage space, making it an attractive feature during home showings.
How long does it take to install a double carport in Summerville?
Most double carport installations in Summerville take 1-3 days from start to finish, depending on site preparation needs and weather conditions. The actual assembly of a metal carport is typically completed in 4-8 hours, with the remaining time dedicated to ground leveling, anchor installation, and final adjustments.
What roof style is best for carports in Summerville's climate?
A vertical roof style works best for Summerville carports because it allows rain to run off quickly and prevents debris accumulation during the area's frequent thunderstorms. This roof design also offers better wind resistance during tropical weather events compared to horizontal or A-frame styles.
Published October 11, 2026 | Dubya Carports serves Orangeburg, Sumter, Summerville, Bamberg, Holly Hill, and surrounding counties in the SC Midlands.
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