The one difference that matters
| Shadeport (shade net) | Carport (solid roof) | |
|---|---|---|
| Roof | Tensioned shade cloth | Steel IBR / aluminium / timber |
| UV & heat | Yes | Yes |
| Durban rain | Passes through | Keeps off |
| Bird mess & leaves | Catches some | Keeps off |
| Frame near the sea | Galvanised needed | Galvanised or aluminium |
| Single price | From R4,500 | From R6,500 |
When a shadeport is the right buy
A shadeport is the right call when the priorities are UV, cabin heat and budget, and a dry car is not the worry — a second car, a shaded parking bay at a business, or a stand where cost decides. It is the cheapest way to get a car out of the coastal sun.
When you need a carport
A galvanised steel carport is the right call the moment keeping the car dry matters, which in Durban's wet summers is most of the season for a daily car. Whichever you choose, near the sea the frame must resist salt — the reasons are in coastal corrosion and wind. Many households fit both: a carport over the daily car, a shadeport over the second. Price them side by side on the carport prices in Durban page.
Common questions
What is the difference between a carport and a shadeport?
A shadeport has a tensioned shade-cloth roof for UV and heat at the lowest price; a carport has a solid steel, aluminium or timber roof that also keeps off the rain. On the Durban coast, only a carport keeps a car dry through a downpour.
Is a shadeport or a carport better for Durban?
A carport with a solid roof is better where keeping the car dry matters, which in Durban's wet summers is most of the season. A shadeport is better where UV, heat and budget are the priorities and a dry car is not needed.
Can I fit both a carport and a shadeport?
Yes, and many Durban households do — a solid-roof carport over the daily car to keep it dry, and a cheaper shadeport over the second car for shade. KB Carports fits both, with galvanised or aluminium frames for the coast.