How to Choose a Shelter

In short: When choosing a shelter, consider above all its purpose, the material of the structure and the roof. Wooden shelters look attractive but need more maintenance; aluminium ones are more durable and almost maintenance-free. A well-sloped roof with drainage, dimensions to suit the space, and a design that matches your house are just as important.

Choosing the right carport can be a very difficult task for some owners. There are many factors to consider when selecting the right type of shelter, both to protect the vehicle and to make sure the shelter suits your home.

When choosing a carport, you need to consider the material the structure will be made from. Wooden shelters are very popular and attractive, but have a shorter lifespan than metal or aluminium ones. Metal shelters, on the other hand, are resistant to the weather and last longer, but can come apart or corrode.

Carports

Another important factor is the shelter’s roof. Choosing the right roof can be decisive in protecting your precious investment. First and foremost, you should consider a roof that can carry water away from the car. That means it should be well sloped and have a quality drainage system. Polycarbonate proves itself as a covering — it blocks almost the entire UV spectrum (both UVA and UVB) and so protects the car’s paintwork from the sun.

The main benefit of a carport is protection from the weather and from damage caused by the elements. Carports protect against rain, snow, sun and wind, which can be devastating for the surface and paintwork of your vehicle — according to insurer State Farm, surfaces inside a car in direct sun heat up to more than 90 °C, which dries out and cracks the paint and the dashboard. Protection from hail is significant too, as it causes billions in damage to cars every year. On top of that, carports can provide extra protection against theft.

If you are looking for a durable, almost maintenance-free solution, take a look at our bespoke aluminium carports — the popular Carport model as well as the budget-friendly Carport Economic+.

You know how unpredictable the weather can sometimes be. The sun is shining beautifully and within minutes it is covered by clouds that unleash unexpected rain. If you happen to be sitting in the garden with your family, enjoying some family time, you do not have to rush straight indoors. You can shelter from the rain in one of our shelters, too. With one, the weather will never catch you out again.

A shelter is not just a place to hide from the whims of the weather — it is also a place that perfectly beautifies your garden. You will enjoy summer a little longer under it, savour your morning coffee there and make the most of nice weather. A wooden or aluminium shelter can be your relaxation zone right by the house. After all, shelters and pergolas are there for the joy they bring — a joy that not even spring rain can spoil.

What will the shelter be used for?

Before you choose a shelter, think about what purpose it will serve. Will it be a place to relax, entertain, dine, or store garden furniture and tools? These factors can influence your choice of size, design and material for the shelter. For larger structures, consider permission too — the rules for garden structures are set out in the Building Act, so it is best to check whether you need to notify the authorities or obtain a building permit with your local building office.

Adaptable shelters

If you want a shelter that can adapt to changes in your garden or to your needs, consider choosing a model that allows easy modification or extension. A shelter like this gives you more flexibility when planning your garden and how you use it. If you already have an older shelter, it is sometimes worth converting the shelter into a modern, maintenance-free model rather than building one from scratch.

Environmental aspects

When choosing a shelter, consider its impact on the environment. Choose materials that are durable and kind to nature, such as FSC-certified wood, recycled plastic or aluminium. At the same time, take into account how the shelter will cast shade and how that will affect the growth of plants in your garden.

The way you define the space in your garden can have a big impact on how you feel in it. Shelters, which can be made in several ways, breathe entirely new life into your garden. When choosing, you should think about design and materials, but also about budget, because all of this affects how your shelter or pergola will look — not only when newly built, but also after several years of use. You have several options to hand.

What types of shelter are there?

Wooden shelters – these can vary depending on the type of wood used. This kind of shelter suits modern homes with a wooden design, a Mediterranean style, or country cottages. If you choose the right material, care can be reduced to just once every 8–10 years.

Aluminium shelters – these suit more modern buildings better, because they are simpler, last longer, are practically maintenance-free and more affordable.

Shelters with climbing plants

These shelters are among the most traditional shade structures in gardens. As we have already mentioned, they are ideal for shading a garden and can give it a new, exotic look.

Shelters – awnings

These consist of fabric sheets and posts, and are mostly used to protect various outdoor spaces from the sun’s rays.

Shelters with louvres

Motorised louvres can be controlled, letting you enjoy plenty of sunlight, which you allow into the shelter. The modern name for these shelters is bioclimatic pergolas.

Shelters with transparent sheeting

This approach is perfect if you want to create varied structures of shade. White painted boards give the space a light, airy feel. This type of shelter helps when structuring awkwardly shaped gardens.

Shelters over entrance doors

Shelters over entrance doors are not only an attractive addition to a home but also have a practical purpose. They protect the entrance from adverse weather such as rain, snow or direct sunlight. Thanks to the shelter, you can stand in front of the door without getting wet or exposed to the sun. What is more, a shelter can extend the life of the door by protecting it from getting soaked or drying out. When choosing a shelter, it is important to consider the material, design and size so it fits harmoniously into the overall look of the house.

If you are looking for something unique — something that will beautify your outdoor space and serve you in every season — consider a shelter from us. We have a range from more traditional types to luxurious modern shelters. They offer refuge from sun or rain. During barbecue season they are in full swing. Perhaps you want a shelter for your car or motorbike, so they are not exposed to the weather.

Our quality and price offer the very best you can get on the market. Do not hesitate to contact us.

Frequently asked questions

How to choose a carport?

When choosing a carport, it is important to weigh up several factors, such as the size of the car, where the shelter will be placed and your personal preferences. You can consider the shelter’s material, such as wood or metal, and its lifespan. Another important factor is the shelter’s roof, which should be sufficiently resistant to rain, snow and sunlight.

What are the benefits of a carport?

A carport provides protection from the weather, extending the life of your vehicle. On top of that, a shelter can help increase the value of your property and provides convenient parking for your car.

How to choose the right carport for your car?

When choosing a carport, it is important to consider the size of the car, where the shelter will be placed and your personal taste. Another important factor is the shelter’s material and its lifespan. If you are not sure how to choose a quality shelter in Bratislava for your car, you can consult experts who will help you pick the best solution for your needs.

What are the prices of your garden gazebos?

Gazebo prices are on the higher side. It always depends on the gazebo’s optional extras. Each one is a work of art with an exceptional design and quality of workmanship.