Do you provide installation services?
Yes, we have a team of experienced contractors that can perform your installation at an extra cost. Most of our customers prefer for us to do the installation.
What are the minimal tools required for installation?
Cordless drill/driver, post level, 3′ contractors level, shovel, tape measure, 4) 2×6’s, 2 quick-squeeze clamps, 8′ ladder, simple socket set.
How many people does it take to assemble your products?
We give our products an overall difficulty rating of 8, due to the possibility of a permit being required, the required digging of holes, ordering cement, etc. Assembling our products is similar to building a simple deck… with the exception that our products can be assembled in 1.5 days; require ZERO cutting; ZERO modifications; and ZERO trips to the lumber yard for materials.
Do your products come with ALL necessary components for assembly?
Yes. Our products are turnkey. There is no cutting necessary, fasteners to purchase, or further components required for assembly.
Is a permit required?
It is possible that a permit may be required. Permits are usually determined by city code, so you will need to inquire with your local city building department to determine your code and rules. If you live in a small town, your local code may be determined by the county you reside in.
What is the permit difficulty?
Most people are intimidated by the idea of obtaining a building permit. However, if you arrive to your local building enforcement office prepared, with the necessary paperwork and a reasonable understanding of what is required, most permits can be obtained on the same day you file.
Is there a simple way to inquire as to whether or not I need a permit?
Yes. A simple explanation of your intention to install a carport or awning will bring about questions from your local office, which will determine if one is necessary.
What kind of questions should I be prepared for when obtaining a permit?
They will ask you a few general questions with regards to your awning/carport placement. They may ask more detailed follow up questions as you provide answers to the general ones, so it is best to be prepared. You may print out our permitting document found at the bottom of this page, which will assist in guiding you through the process.
Is it being attached to the home/building?
This will determine a few things with regards to safety, fire code, etc. We never recommend attaching our freestanding unit to a building if you’re doing a self-installation, unless you have extensive contractor experience and/or you’re a licensed contractor. Additionally, in many cases you may avoid the need for a building permit simply by not attaching the awning or carport to a structure.
Are you putting sides on it, or enclosing the awning/carport at all?
In many cases, enclosing an awning or carport changes the definition of what it is. Leaving it open on the sides makes the permit process much easier.
What is the product made of?
This question is usually asked to determine the fire rating of the product. Since all of our products are made of aluminum, you will automatically exceed any minimal fire code rating anywhere in the U.S.
How large is the structure?
In some cases if the carport/awning doesn’t exceed a specific square footage, then you may not need a permit.
Do you have drawings or engineered plans of the product?
Yes. All of our products come with very detailed drawings reflecting all dimensions and specific guidelines for installation, including the footing depth and placement. Since our products are not considered “dwellings”, and not intended for living in/under, most of the time our drawings & engineered plans are sufficient. Our plans will also include the wind and roof-load ratings as well.
Have you considered the Set-Back Requirements?
In simple terms, set-back requirements are the closest proximity to your physical property line in which anything can be permanently built. They can vary based on the structure. Most states use a set-back requirement anywhere from 3′-5′.
What is the difference in definition between a permanent and temporary structure?
Most building code enforcement define permanent as being placed into concrete, thus making the mobility of the structure very difficult. A temporary structure is something that can be moved with limited effort, while retaining the original integrity of the product. Something you can move and install in another location without rendering damage to the product or the property. A good example of this would be bolting the awning/carport to a concrete footing vs. permanently installing it into the concrete footing. We have the ability to provide options for both!
What is a site plan?
The site plan lays out your project intentions in a very simple way. It explains where you intend on putting the structure in relation to other items, such as your home, or property line (you’ll have to provide property measurements with it). The site plan can be very informal, and even hand drawn on a single sheet of paper.
Are these the only questions/answers that are used to determine my requiring a permit?
In some cases yes. In some cases no. Questions and permit requirements will differ for all areas; however, most agencies will ask the same general questions (or a form of the same questions).