Why do some carports and lean-tos have panels half-way up?

[RickB]

Here in the north, I'd rather have a half-wall on the lower part to help keep out snow. Shouldn't make much difference as far as ventilation goes.

Having lived 29/30ths of my life pin the Northeast all I will say is the number of carports up there doesn’t amount to anything compared to the number found in warmer, generally snow free climates.

 

[tallyho8]

In my area the building code states that you must have the top of the side walls closed in to park an RV or travel trailer in it.

 

[strantor]

In my area the building code states that you must have the top of the side walls closed in to park an RV or travel trailer in it.

Wow, that seems a bit over-reaching. Does the law also dictate what viscosity of motor oil you shall use in said RV?

 

[tallyho8]

The first photo is my new carports built to the building code. The second photo is my old carport built before the building code and grandfathered in.

 

[EddieWalker]

The first photo is my new carports built to the building code. The second photo is my old carport built before the building code and grandfathered in.

View attachment 596186

View attachment 596187

Both your pictures show why the siding is needed to keep the building standing. In the picture with the wood, diagonal bracing is used. On the metal building, a sheet of metal accomplishes this, and does a better job.