Steel vs. Wood Buildings: Which Material Is Better?

When starting a new construction, one of the first decisions is what material to use. However, many wonder about the differences between steel vs. wood building frames. While wood has been a go-to for hundreds of years because of its flexibility and user-friendliness, metal frames have emerged as a more popular alternative because of its durability and assembly cost. 

Determine which material fits your needs by reviewing our in-depth guide exploring metal buildings vs wood buildings below.

Pros and Cons of Steel Buildings

The biggest advantage of using steel as a building material is its durability. It isn’t vulnerable to warping, rot, or termites, protecting its structural integrity with little to no upkeep. Steel is also ideal for those residing in regions prone to extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes, heavy snow, or earthquakes. This, paired with its fire resistance—withstanding temperatures over 2,500°F—provides an added layer of safety that is almost unmatched.

Though steel can seem more expensive than wood when choosing a building material for a house, it often results in lower construction costs. Did you know there are pre-engineered steel components that are easier to assemble, generate less waste, and lower labor costs? The material’s flexibility also makes doing modifications, expansions, and full garage makeovers much easier.

However, steel is known to be heavier, requiring specialized equipment and skilled labor to ensure proper installation. Rusting is a common concern, especially in humid areas, which makes applying protective treatments vital to extend the building’s lifespan. Insulating metal buildings can also be tricky. Materials like steel are known heat conductors, making it difficult to keep indoor temperatures consistent.

Tip: Be on the lookout for condensation buildup that can occur if moisture issues arise from poor temperature regulation. 

Pros and Cons of Wood Buildings

Wood stands out as a reliable building material for its simplicity and sustainability. Its lightweight nature makes it easy to cut and assemble on-site and reduces the need for heavy machinery. Builders can also work efficiently by pre-assembling certain components off-site. If you’re turning a shed into a tiny home, you can also stain the wood to add a personal touch and bring your vision to life.

Wood is a renewable resource and offers an eco-friendly option since trees absorb carbon dioxide. The carbon stays locked within the wood, supporting carbon-capture efforts as long as the structure stands. Its natural insulation helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, improving airflow and reducing energy usage.

However, even with modern treatments, wood remains vulnerable. If not properly maintained, rot, mold, and mildew can develop. Structural limitations can arise when designing large open spaces or complex features, and fire risks are always a concern. The use of fire-retardant treatments and sprinkler systems helps reduce these dangers.

Steel vs. Wood Buildings: An Overview

Both steel and wooden buildings have distinct advantages. Steel excels in strength and low maintenance. Meanwhile, wood is simple and eco-friendly. 

Before deciding what will work best, it’s essential to understand each type’s key characteristics and how they’ll accommodate your specific needs, whether you’re building a detached garage from scratch or exploring pre-assembled frames. 

Cost 

When comparing metal vs. wood building costs, you’ll see that wood typically has lower upfront expenses. Wood framing typically falls between $1 to $5 per square foot, and the labor costs associated are often reduced since it’s easy to cut, assemble, and modify on-site. However, wood buildings often require roofing materials like shingles, which can add to the cost and require periodic replacement.

Steel buildings, on the other hand, have a higher initial cost, averaging between $2 to $4 per square foot. However, they offer better value over time. Pre-engineered steel components, including durable metal roofing, can reduce labor and material expenses by streamlining construction phases. 

Durability

When it comes to durability, steel outperforms wood almost instantly. If you compare metal garages to wood garages, the latter will always be resistant to warping, cracking, rot, and pests, giving them a longer lifespan. Wood, while sturdy, is more vulnerable to weather damage. If exposed to moisture and other harmful conditions, this can lead to rotting over time. While treatments can help, regular maintenance is required to maintain its structural integrity. 

Customization

Steel and wood are both customizable in their own ways. Wood structures like pole barns, for example, have more flexibility when adding unique designs. Paint, stain, or carve to your heart’s desire! However, steel buildings adapt and scale well during construction, making quick additions, expansions, or interior reconfigurations a breeze.  

Maintenance

Steel buildings require less maintenance than wood. Upkeep is less time-consuming due to the use of protective coatings or galvanized finishes to extend their lifespan. In contrast, wood requires more attention from developers because of the sealing, painting, and treatments needed to help prevent rotting and other damage. 

Sustainability 

Depending on material sourcing and the company’s sustainability practices, both steel and wood can offer eco-friendly benefits. Wood, a renewable resource, stores carbon throughout its life. Steel demands more energy to produce but is very recyclable. In fact, many new constructions contain recycled materials from old cars, appliances, and decommissioned buildings.

Steel vs. Wood Buildings: Choosing the Right Option for Your Needs

The decision between pursuing metal vs. wood building plans comes down to your priorities. Steel requires little upkeep and is extremely durable, while wood provides a classic look with insulation benefits. We offer an array of metal garages to spark inspiration as you decide. Leverage our 3D builder to start visualizing your wood or metal building ideas and get a sense of your budget by reviewing standard 40×60 metal building costs.

Steel vs. Wood Buildings FAQ

Do you still have a couple of lingering questions about steel and wood buildings? Here are some common answers that will hopefully clarify everything for you.