Because square tubing is rigid, if your base rails aren't perfectly level, the roof holes won't align. Spend extra time on the foundation. Final Thoughts
Unlike wood, steel does not combust (Class A fire rating per ASTM E84) and is impervious to termites, carpenter ants, or fungal decay. This reduces insurance costs in wildfire-prone regions. galvanized square tubing for carports
| Property | Galvanized Square Tube | Wood (Pine) | Aluminum | Bare Steel | |----------|------------------------|-------------|----------|-------------| | Tensile strength | High (58 ksi) | Low (2 ksi parallel grain) | Moderate (40 ksi) | High (58 ksi) | | Corrosion life | 50+ years | 10–15 yrs (treated) | 40+ yrs | 2–5 yrs (unpainted) | | Weight (per ft, 2.5” x 2.5” x 0.083”) | 2.7 lbs | 1.2 lbs | 0.9 lbs | 2.7 lbs | | Annual maintenance cost | $0 | $0.50/sq ft (sealant) | $0.10 (clean) | $0.80 (paint/rust) | Because square tubing is rigid, if your base