- TL; DR: Quick Takeaways
- Picking the Right Garage Size
- Garage Sizes by Uses
- Garage Door Sizes Explained
- Attached Vs. Detached Garages
- What’s the Right Garage Size?
- Let’s Build a Garage You’ll Love!
Your garage is more than a parking spot; it’s an extension of not just your home but also your personality. It speaks for itself. This is your storage hub, workshop, a space full of future potential & ideas, and definitely a home to your cars.
Quick Actions (Fastest Next Steps)
- Design & price online: Use the 3D Building Designer
- Get a Free Quote: https://www.engineeredmetalbuildings.com/contact-us/
- Call Now: (208) 572-1441
- Flexible payments: Financing | Rent-To-Own
TL; DR: Quick Takeaways
Essential facts you should know:
- Single Car: Think of a 12x20 as the absolute tightest fit. It'll do the job, but just barely. If you can, stretch it to a 14x24.
- Two Cars: Yeah, a 20x20 is what everyone builds. If you want a garage that works harder, aim for 24x24.
- Three Cars: A 32x22 works for three sedans. But let's be real, we drive trucks and SUVs now. Do yourself a huge favor and upgrade to 36x24.
- A Word on Doors: If you're going for two cars, fight for two separate 9-foot doors with a solid wall between them.
- Here's the Real Secret: The magic of a great garage isn't its width- it's its depth. That space behind where your bumper stops? That's your gold mine. Plan for extra room back there.
Choosing the right size isn’t just an instinctive decision or squeezing your car in; it’s about creating a functional space that works for your lifestyle and boosts your property’s future value.
Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the available garage sizes, door dimensions, and more, so you can be confident when you plan what fits you best!
Planning Tip (Before You Finalize Size)
Picking the Right Garage Size
Following are the steps that help decide the right garage size for you-Step 1: Measure Your Vehicles
Measure the dimensions of your vehicles and add a 3-foot in front & behind, and 2.5 feet on the sides. This gives ample space for ventilation, easy exit & entry with movable area.
Step 2: Choose Your Door Layout
The functionality of a garage depends hugely upon the entry & exit points. For two cars, options between a 16-foot-wide door or two separate 8-9-foot wide are ideal. Two doors provide a much cleaner look with a supportive center column, curbing weather issues and simplifying repairs.
Step 3: Plan for Depth & Storage Zones
Don't make the number one garage planning mistake: forgetting about the depth. Sure, your car fits now, but where does the lawnmower go? The bikes? The holiday decorations? By adding a few extra feet of depth- 24 to 26 feet total- you create a "buffer zone" at the front or back.
Want a Garage That Doubles as a Shop?
Garage Sizes by Uses
Here’s a detailed breakdown of standard garage sizes and their ideal use cases.1-Car Garage
- Minimal Fit (12'x20'): Fits your car, but that’s it. Getting in and out is a squeeze.
- Comfortable Pick (14'x24'): Room to open doors easily + space along the wall for bikes or storage.
- Door Tip: Go for a 10-foot-wide door- it makes pulling in much easier.
2-Car Garage
- 20x20 feet (Minimum): Fits two cars, but it's a tight squeeze. You'll be climbing out carefully to avoid dinging doors.
- Comfortable/ Recommended Size: 22 ft. x 24 ft. This is a significant improvement, offering more shoulder room between vehicles.
- Family’s Favorite: This is the size that actually works for real life.
- Door: A 16-foot-wide door or, two 9-foot-wide ones.
3-Car Garage
- ‘Standard’ Size: 32 feet x 22 feet. This layout typically fits three cars in a row, but depth can be tight for larger vehicles.
- Better/ Recommended Size: 36 feet x 24 feet. The extra width and depth are worth the investment. It comfortably accommodates three larger vehicles (like trucks and SUVs) and provides essential storage space. T-shaped layouts are also popular for a third bay dedicated to a boat or workshop.
4-Car Garage
- Baseline Size: Starts around 40 feet x 20 feet, but this is highly customizable.
- Common Layouts:
- Parallel (4-in-a-row): A long rectangle, ideal for straightforward parking.
- Double-Deep (Tandem): Two bays deep, perfect for storing seasonal vehicles or creating a dedicated workshop space behind daily drivers.
- With Traffic Lanes: For easy manoeuvring of boats or RVs, include extra width for turning lanes.
Also Read: 30x40 Metal Buildings
Ready to see pricing ranges?
Garage Door Sizes Explained
The right door is as important as the garage itself. Use this [matrix](/garage-door-size-chart) as your guide.- 1 Car: a 9’ or 10’ door’s great.
- 2 Cars: a 16’ door’s standard.
- Door Height:
- Standard: 7 feet. Often too low for modern vehicles.
- Recommended: 8 feet. This is a smart upgrade that easily clears lifted SUVs, trucks with roof racks, and minivans.
Attached Vs. Detached Garages
- Attached Garage: Offers direct access to the home as well as convinience. It offers superior climate control and is usually less expensive to construct. It can, however, be noisy.
- Detached Garage: Offers excellent segregation, perfect for noisy hobby areas, and rental apartments. Prefabricated metal detached garages, are ready in a matter of weeks, and gives you a significant advantage in terms of lead time and construction.
Get Help Choosing the Right Layout
- Get a Free Quote: https://www.engineeredmetalbuildings.com/contact-us/
- Call: (208) 572-1441
What’s the Right Garage Size?
| Garage Type | Minimum Dimensions | Ideal Dimensions | Perfect For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Car | 12' x 20' | 14' x 24' | A single car. |
| 2-Car | 20' x 20' | 24' x 24' | Families with two cars, additional storage. |
| 3-Car | 32' x 22' | 36' x 24' | Bigger families, trucks, or anyone with hobbies or growing needs. |
| 4-Car | 40' x 20' | Custom-made (e.g., 40'x30') | Car collections, boats, or massive equipment or storage. |
Want to lock in a plan today?
- Design it in 3D: https://engineeredmetalbuildings.sensei3d.com/
- Ordering steps: https://www.engineeredmetalbuildings.com/ordering-process/
Let’s Build a Garage You’ll Love!
Getting stuck with a garage that you regret later is a real thing. Use this guide to make an informed choice, or contact us to receive a quote for a space that truly suits your needs.Call: (208) 572-1441
Request a Free Quote
We’re here to guide you, clarify your doubts, and help you choose what’s best for you!
Similar Building Models
- TL; DR: Quick Takeaways
- Picking the Right Garage Size
- Garage Sizes by Uses
- Garage Door Sizes Explained
- Attached Vs. Detached Garages
- What’s the Right Garage Size?
- Let’s Build a Garage You’ll Love!
A lot of people focus on the building package and forget what’s underneath it. That’s usually where the problems start. With a 40x60 metal building, the site work and the slab matter just as much as the steel. Sometimes more.
This page talks through what actually goes into site prep, what concrete work tends to cost, and why two projects that look the same on paper rarely price out the same in real life.
Key Takeaways – TL;DR
- Ground work can make or break a 40x60 project
- Concrete slabs are the most common foundation choice
- Soil, slope, and drainage change pricing fast
- Slab design matters more than people expect
- Slab and site prep costs are separate from 40x60 metal building prices
- Planning early avoids rework later
What Site Prep and Slab Work Really Includes
Site prep isn’t always clean and simple. Every property has quirks. Slight slopes. Soft spots. Access issues. For a 40x60 metal building, those details show up quickly once equipment hits the ground.
Clearing
Clearing means more than cutting grass. Trees, roots, brush, and old debris all have to go. Some sites take a day. Others take much longer.
Grading
The ground needs to be level and compacted so the slab stays put. If this step is rushed, cracks and settling tend to show up later.
Access
Concrete trucks don't squeeze into tight spaces easily. Long driveways, soft soil, or limited turnarounds can add cost without warning.
Foundation
This is the forming, reinforcement, and pour. The slab has to line up with the building layout and meet local requirements.
Common Foundation Types for 40x60 Metal Buildings
Most 40x60 buildings sit on concrete slabs. They’re solid, durable, and work well for enclosed structures. Other foundations exist, but they’re usually chosen for specific reasons, not convenience. These include:
- Soil and Gravel Foundations
Gravel bases are sometimes used for open buildings or storage. They're cheaper upfront but don't offer a finished floor or long-term stability.
- Asphalt Foundations
Asphalt shows up occasionally, usually in commercial settings and for residential carports and garages. It’s less common and doesn’t perform like concrete under constant load.
Budget Ranges for a 40x60 Metal Building
As a general range, a 40x60 metal building usually runs $11 to $25 per square foot for the base structure, with site prep and slab work added separately. These costs include:
| Average Price Range | |
|---|---|
| 40x60 Metal Building (Base Model) | $26,400 – $60,000 |
| Site Prep | $4,000 – $15,000 |
| Concrete Slab | $12,000 – $30,000 |
Site Prep Checklist
Before concrete shows up, a few basics should already be handled to prevent delays:
- Clear vegetation and debris
- Level and compact the site
- Plan drainage paths
- Decide where utilities enter
- Make sure trucks can access the site
- Pull required permits
- Use experienced concrete contractors
Cost Drivers for Concrete Slabs
Concrete costs don’t jump randomly. They rise because of:
- Thicker slabs and reinforced edges
- Rebar, mesh, and spacing requirements
- Soil prep and compaction work
- Vapor barriers and moisture control
- Wind, snow, or seismic codes
- Labor and material pricing in your area
Common Mistakes When Planning Foundations
Most foundation issues start long before the pour. Keep your eyes out for the following to minimize headaches or delays:
Slabs poured too thin
Thin slabs don’t hold up under real use. Cracks usually follow. That’s another reason it pays to hire professional contractors.
No drainage plan
Water around a slab leads to erosion and movement over time. Plan your drainage well ahead of time to reduce flooding and erosion.
Skipping soil prep
Bad soil doesn't fix itself. Test and compact your soil before laying a foundation.
Pouring before the building is finalized
Building plans can change, but if you’re locked into a concrete pad size, you may be in for major headaches.
EMB Metal Buildings Is Your Partner for Durable Metal Buildings
EMB Metal Buildings has years of experience delivering high-quality metal buildings. Our structures are certified against the wind and snow in your region, customized to fit your project type, and built to last for years, keeping your things safe.
If you’d like to speak to one of our building experts, call us today at (208) 572-1441. Or design your building on your own with our 3D Designer tool.
FAQs About Metal Building Site Prep
Do you have questions about preparing your building site for a 40x60 metal building? We want you to be sure when you buy, so we’ve answered a few of the most common questions on the subject:
- How much does a 40x60 concrete slab cost?
Answer: Most land somewhere between $12,000 and $30,000, depending on thickness, reinforcement, and site conditions.
- How thick should a slab be for a fully enclosed 40x60 metal building?
Answer: Four to six inches is common, often with thicker edges. Local codes can change that.
- Should my slab be bigger than the building?
Answer: Sometimes. Extra space can help with drainage and future use.
- Do I need a vapor barrier under a slab?
Answer: Often yes, especially for enclosed buildings.
- What site prep should be done before the crew arrives?
Answer: The site should be cleared, leveled, compacted, and accessible.
- How do wind and snow codes affect the slab?
Answer: Higher loads usually mean more reinforcement and thicker concrete.
- Can I pour concrete before finalizing the building design?
Answer: That’s risky. Final plans should be set before the pour.
A 40x60 metal building gives you 2,400 square feet. That’s enough room to park equipment, move around comfortably, and still have space left over. That’s why this size keeps coming up again and again.
40x60 Metal Building Prices in 2026
40x60 metal building not too small, and not too big. For a lot of buyers, it’s a safe size that works in almost any application. In 2026, though, pricing isn’t as simple as grabbing a flat rate and moving on. Design choices, location, and site conditions all affect the final number, and knowing what to look for can save you big time.
This guide lays out realistic costs and what’s usually included with your purchase.
Key Takeaways (TL;DR)
- What a 40x60 building actually gives you in usable space
- Why this size works for so many different applications
- General price ranges you’ll see in 2026
- What’s normally part of the base package
- Common items that increase the total cost
- How local requirements quietly affect pricing
How People Use a 40x60 Metal Building
Most people don’t build a 40x60 with just one narrow plan in mind. They pick it because it keeps options open. These buildings are regularly used for:
Agriculture
On farms and rural properties, this size is often used for equipment, feed, or storage. There’s enough width to move machinery without constantly backing up and repositioning.
Residential Vehicle Storage
RVs, boats, trailers - this size handles all of it. Many owners are surprised by how much extra room they still have once the main vehicle is parked.
Workshops
A 40x60 works well as a shop because everything doesn’t end up stacked together. Tools, benches, and work areas can spread out instead of competing for space.
Commercial Projects
Contractors and small businesses use this size for storage, staging, or light operations. It’s large enough to function professionally without feeling oversized.
What’s Included in a 40x60 Metal Building Price
There’s no single correct price for a 40x60 metal building. In 2026, most buyers fall somewhere between $11 and $25 per square foot for a base structure.
That range usually covers the building shell, not the entire finished setup. Below, we’ll explore what’s included in a base metal building and what’s not:
| What’s Included | What’s Not Included |
|---|---|
| Steel framing and main structure | Concrete slab or foundation |
| Roof and wall panels | Site prep or grading |
| Trim, fasteners, anchors | Electrical or plumbing |
| Basic engineering | Permit costs |
| Standard load ratings | Insulation upgrades |
The 5 Biggest Cost Drivers for 40x60 Metal Buildings
Two buildings with the same footprint can end up priced very differently. These are the usual reasons.
Size
Your building size will be the number one factor that influences its cost. The bigger the building, the higher its price tag will be.
Roof Style
Boxed eave roofs are usually cheaper and work fine in many regions. Vertical roofs cost more but handle rain and snow better over time.
Doors
You’ll be able to choose the size and number of roll-up doors and walk-in doors for your structure, but it will affect its overall cost.
Foundation Prep
Clearing your building site and laying a foundation are a large part of your total metal building project price.
Insulation
Insulation isn’t required, but it changes how the building can be used. Higher insulation levels raise the upfront cost but can improve comfort and do more for keeping your vehicles safe from moisture.
Permits, Engineering, and Why Your Zip Code Matters
Location plays a bigger role than most people expect. Two identical buildings can have very different requirements depending on where they’re built, and two different prices.
Some areas require stamped plans or specific anchoring systems. Those requirements affect engineering and material specs.
Higher wind or snow ratings mean heavier framing and more bracing. That increases cost, but it also increases durability. (ASCE Hazard Tool)
FAQs About 40x60 Metal Building Costs
How much is a 40x60 metal building per square foot in 2026?
Answer: Most land costs between $11 and $25 per square foot, depending on options and location.
What’s included in a metal building kit?
Answer: Usually, the steel structure, panels, trim, fasteners, and basic engineering. Foundation and installation are separate.
Do I need a concrete slab for a 40x60?
Answer: Not always. Agricultural and storage buildings often use gravel. Shops and garages usually use concrete.
How much does a concrete slab cost per square foot?
Answer: Most slabs fall between $6 and $10 per square foot, depending on thickness and site conditions. (ACI concrete floor & slab guide, NRMCA joints in slabs-on-grade)
Does wind or snow rating change the price?
Answer: Yes. Higher ratings require stronger materials and additional engineering.
How long does delivery and installation take?
Answer: Delivery usually takes a few weeks. Installation can range from several days to a couple of weeks.
Most people don’t set out to buy a carport. They just reach a point where leaving things exposed stops making sense. Sun damage. Weather. A vehicle that’s nicer than the one before it. That’s usually what spurs an owner to start mulling over a structure.
Metal carports offer some of the most appeal because they’re simple. However, where people get caught off guard is the cost. Your structure’s size, roof style, ground conditions, and local rules will all have a say in the final price tag.
If you’re actively shopping, start here: explore EMB’s metal carports and compare options in the Shop as you read.
What’s the Difference Between a Carport and a Metal Garage?
Carports and garages serve different purposes, even when they look similar from the road. How do they differ?
- Carports are open. Posts, a roof, and airflow on the sides.
- Metal garages are enclosed, with walls, doors, and framing to match.
- Carports cost less because there’s less steel and less labor involved.
- Garages cost more, but you gain security, storage, and full weather protection.
Want enclosed storage instead? See EMB’s metal garages for common sizes, layouts, and use cases.
The Cost of a Carport in 2026
In most cases, you can expect a metal carport to range between $11 and $25 per square foot, depending on the structure and the add-ons you choose.
(For additional national cost benchmarks, see the sources linked below.)
| Type | Typical Size | Average Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Car Carport | Around 12’ x 20’ | $2,640 – $4,800 |
| Two-Car Carport | Around 18’ x 25’ | $4,950 – $9,000 |
| Three-Car Carport | Around 24’ x 30’ | $7,920 – $14,400 |
| RV Cover | Wider and taller, 35' to 45' long | $4,000 – $9,000 |
Shopping tip: if you already have a target size, you can browse size-focused pages like Two-Car Carports or Three-Car Carports.
What Affects a Carport’s Price?
In the end, two similar-looking carports can end up priced very differently.
Things that tend to move the price:
- Size
Wider spans and taller legs use more steel.
- Roof Style
Regular roofs cost less; vertical roofs add cost but handle weather better.
Need help deciding based on weather? Use EMB’s guide to check snow and wind loads.
- Steel Thickness
Heavier gauge steel raises the price and the strength.
- Enclosure Level
Even partial sides or end panels change the material and labor needs.
Foundation Costs
The ground underneath the carport doesn’t get much attention, but it should. Poor site prep causes more headaches than almost anything else.
Common site-related costs include:
- Clearing and Grading
You’ll need to clear and grade the site to guarantee that it’s level.
- Drainage
Choose a location that sits above natural water runoff and design ample drainage to prevent flooding.
- Foundation Options
Pick between soil, gravel, asphalt, and concrete slab foundations depending on your needs and budget.
For a step-by-step checklist, use EMB’s Site Preparation Guide.
- Permits
Some building officials will want drawings, load ratings, or certification paperwork. This can affect your project costs.
Carports vs. Metal Garages
Even at the same size, metal carports and garages are built differently and carry their own advantages:
| Carports | Metal Garages | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Materials | Roof, Columns | Roof, Columns, Walls, Doors |
| Permitting | Often simpler | Stricter |
| Best for | Standard vehicle coverage | Securing vehicles and equipment |
If your priority is security and storage (tools, equipment, inventory), start with metal garages. If your priority is fast coverage at a lower entry cost, start with metal carports.
Budgeting Your Metal Carport Project
Most budget issues come from changes made late in the process. Planning ahead keeps costs predictable.
A few ways people keep prices in check:
- Choose the right size early, even if it feels slightly larger than you need today.
- Match the roof and foundation to your climate, not just appearance.
- Handle site prep correctly so installation doesn’t stall or need rework.
If you need flexible payments, review EMB’s Rent-to-Own program.
EMB Metal Buildings Is Your Source for High-Quality Metal Carports
A carport may be simple, but choosing the wrong one can still be expensive. Getting the size, height, and roof right the first time makes a huge difference long term. And EMB Metal Buildings wants to help you get the best structure for the job.
Every metal carport and garage we design is engineered to hold up to local wind and snow requirements, and made to last for decades with the right care. It doesn't matter whether you're designing a backyard boat cover or a massive commercial garage; we can make it happen.
Next steps:
- Design and compare options in the Shop
- Learn what happens after checkout in the Ordering Process
- Confirm local loads using the ASCE Hazard Tool (also referenced in EMB’s load-check guide)
Call our experts today at (208) 572-1441 for a full tour of our design process. We’ll answer all your questions and help you create the structure you’ve been waiting for.
FAQs about Metal Carports
Once metal carport pricing comes up, the same questions usually follow. So, we've gone ahead and answered the ones we see the most:
How much does a carport cost on average?
Answer: Many standard builds land somewhere between $1,500 and $4,000 depending on size and options, but installed pricing can vary a lot by region, site conditions, and certification needs. (See sources below.)
How much does a metal carport cost installed?
Answer: Installation is often included, but the total cost depends on site prep and foundation needs.
What size carport do I need for a truck or SUV?
Answer: Most trucks and SUVs are comfortable in a carport at least 12 feet wide and 20–25 feet long.
Does a carport need a concrete slab?
Answer: Not always. Many are installed on gravel or with ground anchors.
Do I need a permit for a carport, and what will the building department ask for?
Answer: That depends on the location. Expect questions about size, placement, and wind or snow ratings. Many jurisdictions reference code language similar to the IRC “carports shall be open on not less than two sides.” (Reference: IRC R309.2)
What is a certified carport, and when is it required?
Answer: Certified carports meet specific engineering standards and are often required in regulated areas or higher wind/snow regions. A quick first step is checking your local loads with the ASCE Hazard Tool.
What roof style is best for snow or heavy rain?
Answer: Vertical roofs tend to perform better in harsher weather because they shed water and snow more effectively.
Can I enclose a carport later, and how does that affect permitting?
Answer: Usually yes, but enclosing it can trigger new permit requirements. Planning ahead helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
The differences between attached and detached garages relate to access, climate control, and segregation. An attached garage offers direct access to the home, provides convenience, boasts superior climate control, and is usually less expensive to construct, though it can be noisy. A detached garage provides excellent segregation, making it perfect for noisy hobby areas or for creating rental apartments. Additionally, prefabricated metal detached garages can be ready in a matter of weeks, giving a significant advantage in construction lead time
Door dimensions are essential for the functionality of the entry and exit points.
For a 1-car garage, a 9-foot or 10-foot-wide door is recommended, with the 10-foot option making it much easier to pull the vehicle in.
For a 2-car garage, a 16-foot-wide door is standard, or you can opt for two separate 9-foot-wide doors. Regarding height, the standard is 7 feet, which is often too low for modern vehicles.
It is a smart upgrade to choose the recommended 8-foot door height, as this easily clears lifted SUVs, trucks with roof racks, and minivans
The ‘standard’ size for a 3-car garage is 32 feet by 22 feet. However, since many people drive trucks and SUVs, the source recommends upgrading to the Better/Recommended Size of 36 feet by 24 feet. The added width and depth of the 36’ x 24’ layout comfortably accommodates three larger vehicles and provides essential storage space. This size is ideal for bigger families, those who drive trucks, or anyone with growing hobbies
Depth is a crucial element for functionality; the sources state that the "magic of a great garage isn't its width—it's its depth". Planning for extra room behind where your bumper stops creates a "gold mine" of space, as forgetting about depth is the number one planning mistake.
This extra space is necessary because your garage functions as more than just a parking spot—it is also a storage hub and workshop. By adding a few extra feet, aiming for a total depth of 24 to 26 feet, you create a “buffer zone” at the front or back to accommodate essential items like bikes, lawnmowers, or holiday decorations
The absolute minimum size for a 2-car garage is 20 feet by 20 feet, though this results in a tight squeeze where you must climb out carefully to avoid dinging doors. The recommended or comfortable size is 24 feet by 24 feet, as this size works harder and is ideal for families needing additional storage. An intermediate size, 22 feet by 24 feet, is also considered a significant improvement, offering more shoulder room between vehicles and being labeled a “Family’s Favorite” that works for real life
