Double Carport vs Single: Which is Best for Norway, SC?
By Dubya Carports | May 03, 2026 | 8 min read
For most Norway, SC homeowners, a double carport offers better long-term value and versatility, providing covered space for two vehicles, storage, or outdoor equipment. However, single carports remain an excellent choice for budget-conscious property owners with limited space or those needing basic vehicle protection.
What's the Difference Between Single and Double Carports?
A single carport typically measures 12 feet wide and provides covered protection for one vehicle, while a double carport spans 18-24 feet wide and accommodates two vehicles side by side. The structural difference goes beyond just width—double carports require additional support posts and heavier framing to span the greater distance, which is why Dubya Carports uses heavy-gauge 2x2 square tube construction in our Eagle Carports structures to ensure maximum durability for Norway, SC's weather conditions.
Both options can be customized with various roof styles, including regular, boxed-eave, and vertical roofs, with vertical roofs being particularly recommended for Orangeburg County given our occasional winter ice storms and summer thunderstorms. The choice between single and double ultimately depends on your specific needs, property layout, and budget considerations.
How Much Does Each Option Cost in Norway, SC?
Single carports in the Norway area typically start around $1,200-$2,000 for a basic 12x20 structure, while double carports generally range from $2,400-$4,500 for an 18x20 or 20x20 configuration. While a double carport costs more upfront, the price-per-square-foot is actually lower than purchasing two separate single carports, making it a more economical choice if you have multiple vehicles or anticipate future needs.
The investment also depends on customization options such as enclosed sides, extra height for trucks or RVs, and roof style. As an authorized Eagle Carports dealer, Dubya Carports offers competitive pricing on premium-quality metal structures that outlast budget alternatives. Call us at (803) 855-1857 to get an exact quote based on your Norway property's specific requirements and soil conditions.
Which Size Works Best for Norway Properties?
The ideal carport size for your Norway property depends on your lot dimensions, vehicle types, and intended use beyond just parking. Many Norway residents live on spacious rural properties where a double carport makes perfect sense, providing room for cars, tractors, ATVs, or lawn equipment storage—essential for maintaining those beautiful Orangeburg County properties.
However, if you're working with a smaller in-town lot or simply need to protect a single daily driver, a single carport may be the smarter choice. Consider these factors when deciding:
- Current vehicles: Do you own two cars, or one car plus a boat, motorcycle, or trailer?
- Future needs: Will you be adding another vehicle in the next few years?
- Storage requirements: Could you use covered space for lawn mowers, tools, or outdoor furniture?
- Property value: Double carports typically add more resale value to Norway homes
- Setback requirements: Check local Orangeburg County ordinances for distance from property lines
What Are the Practical Advantages of Double Carports?
Double carports provide significantly more versatility than single structures, making them the preferred choice for most Norway homeowners. Beyond parking two vehicles, that extra covered space becomes invaluable for hosting outdoor gatherings protected from sun and rain, storing seasonal items, or creating a covered workspace for hobbies and projects.
The additional width also provides maneuvering room—you won't be squeezing between support posts to get in and out of your vehicle, which is especially appreciated during rainy South Carolina weather. Many Norway families use one bay for vehicle parking and dedicate the other to a workshop area, garden supply storage, or even as a covered play space for children. This multi-purpose functionality simply isn't possible with a single carport's limited footprint.
From a structural standpoint, double carports with vertical roof panels (like those available through our Eagle Carports line) shed rain and debris more effectively across the wider span, reducing maintenance and extending the life of your investment in Orangeburg County's humid climate.
When Does a Single Carport Make More Sense?
A single carport is the right choice when budget constraints are your primary concern or when you genuinely only need protection for one vehicle with no foreseeable change in circumstances. For Norway residents with smaller properties, narrow driveways, or specific placement limitations, a single carport's compact footprint can fit where a double simply won't work.
Single carports are also ideal for rental properties where you want to provide tenant vehicle protection without a major investment, or as a secondary structure—perhaps you already have a garage but want covered parking for a classic car, golf cart, or motorcycle. Some Norway homeowners choose single carports for attachment to existing buildings, creating covered walkways or entryways that a wider double structure would overwhelm visually.
Additionally, if you're considering traditional construction, Dubya Carports also offers pine pole barns that can be built to single-bay specifications, providing a different aesthetic that some Norway property owners prefer for blending with existing outbuildings or agricultural structures.
How Do Norway's Weather Conditions Affect Your Choice?
Orangeburg County experiences hot, humid summers, occasional severe thunderstorms, and periodic winter weather events that can damage unprotected vehicles. Both single and double carports provide essential protection from these elements, but the structural requirements differ based on size.
Double carports require stronger engineering to safely span the wider distance, which is why the heavy-gauge 2x2 square tube metal construction that Dubya Carports uses in Eagle Carports structures is so important. This superior framing resists wind uplift better than lighter-gauge alternatives commonly sold by big-box retailers. For Norway's weather patterns, we particularly recommend vertical roof designs on double carports, as the ridged panels allow rain, leaves, and any ice accumulation to slide off rather than pooling.
Your choice should also consider where on your property the carport will be installed. Low-lying areas common in parts of Norway might experience more water exposure, making the corrosion-resistant coating on quality metal carports essential. Whether you choose single or double, investing in proper anchoring and premium materials appropriate for South Carolina's climate will protect your investment for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add onto a single carport later to make it a double?
While technically possible, expanding a single carport to a double is generally more expensive than installing a double carport initially due to demolition, engineering modifications, and matching materials. If you think you'll eventually need a double carport, it's more cost-effective to install it from the start rather than paying for expansion work later.
How long does it take to install a carport in Norway, SC?
Most single carport installations take 4-6 hours, while double carports typically require 6-8 hours depending on site conditions and customization options. Dubya Carports handles the entire installation process, including site preparation and ensuring proper anchoring for Orangeburg County soil conditions.
Do I need a permit for a carport in Norway?
Permit requirements vary by structure size and location within Orangeburg County. Generally, permanent structures require permits, though requirements may differ for unincorporated areas versus town limits. Dubya Carports can guide you through local permitting requirements when you call for your consultation.
What's the lifespan difference between metal carports and pole barns?
Quality metal carports like Eagle Carports structures typically last 20-30+ years with minimal maintenance, while treated pine pole barns can last 15-25 years depending on ground contact and moisture exposure. Metal carports generally require less upkeep in South Carolina's humid climate, though pole barns offer a traditional aesthetic some Norway property owners prefer.
Can a double carport fit a truck and a car?
Yes, a standard 20-foot wide double carport easily accommodates a full-size pickup truck and a sedan side by side with room to open doors comfortably. For larger trucks or if you want extra workspace, 22- or 24-foot widths are available and provide even more versatility for Norway homeowners with varied vehicle sizes.
Published May 03, 2026 | Dubya Carports serves Orangeburg, Cordova, North, Rowesville, Cameron, and all of Orangeburg County, SC.
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