Larger and heavier posts. “4 wall construction”–note the supports against the house.

Our carport was demolished by a freak storm back in April.  We have shared our early experience with getting the restoration done from a distance. The initial cleanup was paid for by the insurance company. There were a variety of issues including permits, mismeasurements of our property, dealing with the insurance company, choosing a contractor, discovering a serious damage to the roof and then finally having the work done including a new roof.

When we bought our place several years ago, we had a specialist roof inspector tell us that the roof was fine. Now we discover that it was decrepit, so the insurance company depreciated its value, leaving us with a small payment.

We got down here a few days ago and finally got to review the project in person with Earl Sullivan of the AMS company, a firm that does a lot of work in Tropicana.  Their specialty is aluminum roofs, sidings, additions, etc.  The job was extra expensive because it had to be done under new construction codes that would have the structure survive 160 mph winds.  Evidently, 140 mph winds would destroy the building, so our carport would be the only thing left standing if a 140 mph hurricane were to hit here.  The last time a big hurricane hit around here was Charlie in 2004.  That storm destroyed a number of carports in Tropicana.

We also learned that our insurance company only covered a relatively small amount of the cost to replace the carport and the roof.  Some companies don’t even cover attachments like carports, lanais and metal awnings.   In addition, the roof replacement did not include roofing for the lanai, carport or front awning. That work would be extra, although we didn’t do it.

Here are some more photos of the carport work:   —Paul

Because of the larger gutters, the downspouts are wider spaced. Note the supports and the trim work. Everything is aluminum.

It was not necessary to remove the original 4 inch concrete slab. Note the secure bolts.

The ceiling is aluminum with a special shiny finish.

We had some original decorative work in the front, but half of it was destroyed. We don’t know how to find replacement parts. Any ideas?