Utah weather can be brutal. The summers fry your car’s interior, and the winters dump several feet of snow on your vehicle before you make it to work. A durable carport is no longer an option but a necessity to protect your investment.
But when you actually go to look for a contractor, the process can be overwhelming. Do you trust the national brand or go with a local specialist? Which company will build a shelter that will stand up to Utah’s unique climate?
In this guide, we cut through the noise. We are comparing three of the state’s most well-known providers: Awnings Unlimited, Quality Carports, and Utah Carports. Through analysis of their product features, customer service track records, and overall value, we help you decide which company is worth your business.
Why a Standard Carport Won’t Cut It in Utah
Before diving into the companies, it is vital to understand what makes a carport “Utah-ready.” You aren’t just buying shade; you are buying structural integrity.
- Snow Load Capacity: The heavy, wet snow common in the Wasatch Front needs a reinforced steel or heavy-gauge aluminum frame. Cheap kits from big-box stores will buckle under winter weight.
- Wind Resistance: Canyon winds can rip apart poorly anchored buildings. Proper installation is key here.
- UV Protection: The high-altitude sun in Utah can fade paint and dashboards in record time. The roofing material needs to block UV rays effectively.
Now, with the ground rules established, let’s see how the contenders stack up.
Contender 1: Awnings Unlimited
Awnings Unlimited is a well-established player in the Utah outdoor living market. They are often the first name that comes up because they do more than just carports—they handle patio covers, general awnings, lattice awnings & pergolas, and DIY options.
Product Quality and Features
Awnings Unlimited generally uses high-quality aluminum products. They focus on both looks and durability. If you want a carport that blends seamlessly with your home rather than an obvious industrial add-on, they are a solid choice. Their structures typically feature baked-on enamel finishes which are more resistant to peeling and cracking in the sun.
Customer Service
As a bigger company, they have a more structured process for estimates and installation. Online reviews of Awnings Unlimited often speak to mixed communication experiences. The end product is usually very good, but you may have a hard time getting on their schedule in the busy season due to high demand on all their service lines.
Pros
- Excellent aesthetic options that match the home architecture.
- Durable aluminum materials that doesn’t rust.
- Longtime community reputation.
Cons
- Can be on the pricier side compared to competitors due to the “finished” aesthetic.
- Scheduling may be tight during peak spring and summer demand.
Contender 2: Quality Carports
Quality Carports markets itself as a specialized contractor. As their name suggests, they focus on the product itself and provide to customers looking for functional, heavy-duty steel structures.
Product Quality and Features
This company is synonymous with strength. They almost always utilize galvanized steel tubing, which has a better strength-to-weight ratio. Good for high snow-load zones. They offer multiple roof styles, including regular, boxed eave, and vertical roof styles. The vertical roof option is a standout for Utah winters as it lets snow slide off rather than pile up.
Customer Service
Quality Carports is known for its direct, no-frills approach. It is efficient. Installations are often fast, sometimes done in one day once the materials arrive. Their pricing transparency is generally appreciated with fewer hidden fees than some full-service contractors.
Pros
- High structural strength for heavy snow zones.
- Vertical roof design is grat for shedding snow.
- Competitive pricing compared to custom aluminum awnings.
Cons
- Designs can look more industrial than home.
- Limited color options for matching with home siding.
Contender 3: Utah Carports
Utah Carports is a locally-focused competitor that tries to split the difference between industrial-strength and residential appeal. They understand the state’s different micro-climates very well.
Product Quality and Features
Utah Carports offers a good compromise in customization. They have steel structures that can be enclosed or semi-enclosed, offering more protection than a simple roof. One key feature they often tout is their anchoring systems which are designed for Utah’s rocky or sandy soil types, keeping the structure in place during windstorms.
Customer Service
This company excels in the “local touch” category. Reviews suggest they are willing to spend more time explaining the engineering behind their structures to homeowners. They are particularly helpful with navigating local city permit requirements, a pain many homeowners forget until the last minute.
Pros
- In-depth knowledge of local permit and zoning laws.
- Flexible design (open vs. enclosed).
- Robust anchoring for wind resistance.
Cons
- Website and digital presence may not be as polished as larger competitors.
- Lead times can vary widely based on steel supply.
Comparison at a Glance
To help you visualize the differences, here is a quick breakdown of where each company excels:
|
Feature |
Awnings Unlimited |
Quality Carports |
Utah Carports |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Best For |
Aesthetics & Home Integration |
Heavy Duty & Snow Loads |
Customization & Permitting |
|
Material Focus |
Aluminum |
Galvanized Steel |
Steel & Mixed Materials |
|
Price Point |
Premium |
Mid-Range / Value |
Mid-Range |
|
Style |
Residential / Sleek |
Industrial / Functional |
Versatile |
Making Your Decision
Choosing the “best” company comes down to what problem you are trying to solve.
Choose Awnings Unlimited If:
Curb appeal matters most. The carport is attached to the front or side of your house and must look like it was built at the same time as the original structure. Their aluminum products and finish options are the best in this regard.
Choose Quality Carports If:
You are in a high-snow area like Park City, Heber, or the benches of Salt Lake. The roof and structural strength are your number one concerns, and you need a vertical roof design that allows snow to slide off right away rather than accumulating.
Choose Utah Carports If:
You have a tricky lot or specific needs. You want help with permitting or need a carport that is partially enclosed for extra storage, the company’s flexible approach to design will make them a great partner for one-of-a-kind projects.
Which Utah Carport Company Is Best?
So, who offers the best Utah carports?
For the average Utah homeowner dealing with typical winter weather, Quality Carports often edges out the competition purely on value and structural resilience against snow. Their vertical roof steel designs offer the peace of mind that your roof won’t buckle during a February blizzard.
However, if your carport is highly visible from the street, Awnings Unlimited is the winner for design, resilience against snow, and property value retention.
Before signing a contract, we recommend getting a quote from at least two of these providers. Ask them specifically about “snow load ratings” and “wind guarantees.” A good carport is a 20-year investment—take the time to choose the one that will still be standing strong two decades from now. If you’re ready to take the fist step towards protecting your personal property, contact Awnings Unlimited today for a free quote. From the first call, to the final handshake, we work to ensure your overall satisfaction the type of carport, patio cover, or awning you’re looking for. Contact us today to get started!