You've searched "carport prices" and got quotes from R8,000 to R80,000. That range is useless when you're trying to budget. So let's cut through it.
In South Africa, what you'll actually pay depends on three things: size, material, and who installs it. A basic single carport in Durban isn't the same price as a double steel carport in Johannesburg. Here's the real breakdown for 2026.
| Type | Size | Material | Price Range (Installed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Carport | 3m x 6m | Shade Cloth / Net | R8,000 – R15,000 |
| Single Carport | 3m x 6m | Steel (IBR / Chromadek) | R18,000 – R28,000 |
| Double Carport | 5.5m x 6m | Shade Cloth / Net | R14,000 – R22,000 |
| Double Carport | 5.5m x 6m | Steel (IBR / Chromadek) | R28,000 – R45,000 |
| Custom / 3+ Cars | 8m x 6m+ | Steel or Mixed | R45,000 – R80,000+ |
| Shadeport | 3m x 6m | HDPE Shade Net | R5,500 – R9,500 |
Prices include installation but exclude foundation work (slab or paving). Always get a site visit before committing to a quote — every property is different.
The biggest cost driver. Steel carports with IBR or Chromadek roofing cost more upfront but last 20+ years with minimal upkeep. Shade cloth carports are lighter and cheaper — great if you're on a tighter budget or just need UV protection without full weatherproofing.
Aluminium sits between them. It won't rust, which matters if you're near the coast, but it costs more than steel per square metre. Premium aluminium awnings are popular in Durban for exactly this reason — salt air eats steel over time.
Single carports (3m x 6m) are the most common. Doubles (5.5m x 6m) need more steel, more labour, and often a slab. If you're adding a carport to an existing driveway, you might save on concrete. If it's a greenfield install, budget for a proper base.
Forever Awnings operates in Durban and Gauteng. Prices vary slightly between regions — Durban has higher transport costs for materials, but Gauteng has more competition among installers. Get local quotes. Don't compare a Cape Town price to a Durban one and expect them to match.
Flat ground, easy access, no obstacles — cheapest install. Sloped driveway, retaining walls, limited access — adds R2,000–R8,000 to your quote. This is where a site visit matters most.
Most homeowners start by asking about single carports. A single steel carport runs R18,000–R28,000 installed. That covers one car, with enough room to open doors comfortably.
If you have two cars or need extra space for a trailer, a double carport (R28,000–R45,000) is your move. The price jump isn't double because you share one roof structure and one set of labour costs. It's roughly 50% more for 80% more coverage.
Not sure which size you need? Read our carport materials guide for a deeper breakdown of what works for each situation.
Shade cloth carports (also called shade ports or net carports) are the budget king. A single shadeport costs R8,000–R15,000 installed. That's roughly half the price of steel. But they're not waterproof — they provide UV protection and keep temperatures down, not keep rain off.
Steel carports are fully waterproof, stronger in hailstorms, and last decades. The trade-off is cost and weight. Choose shade cloth if budget is tight and you mostly want sun protection. Choose steel if you need a permanent, weatherproof structure.
For a detailed comparison of materials, check shade cloth carport benefits — it covers lifespan, UV ratings, and maintenance side by side.
Ready for a firm price? Get a free quote from Forever Awnings — we cover Durban and Gauteng with site visits included.
A well-built carport adds R30,000–R60,000 to your property value, depending on your area. That means a single steel carport at R22,000 installed pays for itself the day you sell. Plus your car stays cooler, the paint lasts longer, and you skip the morning frost scrape in winter.
If you're in Johannesburg or Pretoria where summer hailstorms are a real risk, a steel carport is practically insurance. Same for Durban — UV and salt air will fade your car's paint in under 3 years without cover.
Need more budget context? Our comprehensive awning cost guide covers pricing across all our products.
About the Author
This guide was written by the team at Forever Awnings and Carports. With over 21 years of experience serving Durban and Gauteng homeowners, we've installed hundreds of carports, awnings, and shade structures across South Africa. We believe in transparent pricing and quality workmanship — no hidden costs, no fake discounts.
Published July 2026. Prices are indicative and may vary based on site conditions, material availability, and structural requirements. Request a site visit for a firm quote.