Light transmission and appearance. Clear panels transmit the most daylight and give a view of the sky from underneath. Bronze panels filter light to a warm amber tone and reduce the brightness under the roof in strong sunlight. Opal panels diffuse light evenly, eliminating glare and providing a consistent illumination without a direct view of the sky. All three are equally weatherproof.

White or brown aluminium glazing bars, chosen at the point of order. White suits Light Green timber or rendered white walls. Brown suits Rustic Brown timber and brick or stone elevations.

Yes. Polycarbonate amplifies the sound of rain more than a solid shingle roof. In heavy rain this is noticeable. It is a known characteristic of the material and worth considering if the carport is adjacent to a window or door.

Brick, rendered block and timber frame are all suitable. The appropriate fixing method varies. The structure fixes via a ledger board to the wall — the same approach as the shingle roof version.

A carport attached to the house may require planning permission depending on size and local authority rules. Permitted development thresholds for carports differ from those for garden structures. Checking before ordering is advisable.