| Many Americans are feeling a bit squeezed for space | | | | 2. Dad's Hideaway |
| in their existing homes, but with the housing market | | | | When Dad needs a little time away from the hubbub |
| still reeling from the 2008-2009 meltdown, people are | | | | of family life, a separate carport may be just what |
| more likely to make do with what they have than | | | | he needs. Today's carport designs are not like your |
| buy a new home or even invest in an add-on. | | | | grandpa's. Dad's getaway can have a porch, standard |
| However, for those who have room on their | | | | door, and even windows! He can use his fully |
| property, a new carport may be just the ticket for | | | | enclosed carport as a workshop or just as a place to |
| solving that "we don't have enough space" dilemma. | | | | relax and get away from it all. |
| Here are three great ways to add space with | | | | 3. Kids' Game Room |
| today's carport designs. | | | | If your house is the one that attracts all of the |
| 1. Added Storage | | | | neighborhood kids, why not use an enclosed carport |
| Even if you already have a garage for your cars, you | | | | as a game room? A standard carport is plenty large |
| still need storage space for other items that is safe, | | | | enough to hold a pool table, ping-pong table, and |
| weather-proof, and secure. A standard sized carport | | | | "hanging out" furniture. A carport can be outfitted |
| is an excellent choice for storing ATVs, bicycles, a | | | | with the flooring of your choice and fully rigged with |
| boat, and other recreational vehicles. In addition, | | | | utilities if desired. |
| there is always plenty of room left over for extra | | | | Carports aren't just for cars anymore: they are |
| tools, the lawn mower, or even holiday decorations! | | | | all-purpose "extra rooms" that have the added |
| Let your garage be for your cars, and the carport | | | | benefit of being detached from the main house. How |
| can store the rest. | | | | will you use yours? |