For carports in severe weather, what is the required concrete strength?

The requirement for concrete strength in carports located in areas that experience severe weather is generally set at 3500 PSI. This strength is considered adequate for ensuring that the structure can withstand the stresses caused by various weather conditions, such as heavy rain, ice, and snowfall, while also supporting the weight of vehicles and any additional loads that may occur.

Concrete with a strength of 3500 PSI provides a good balance between durability and cost-effectiveness. Higher strength concrete, such as 4000 PSI or 4500 PSI, can provide even greater resilience, but they are often not necessary for typical carport applications unless specific circumstances call for them, such as extreme local conditions. Selecting 3500 PSI as the standard allows for structures that are robust enough against the elements without incurring unnecessary expenses associated with higher-strength materials.