Metal vs. Wood Garage: Costs, Pros, and Cons
You will likely keep important things in your garage, so a new garage needs to be up to the task of meeting your storage, size, and price needs.
While you can build a garage with many different materials, two of the most common choices are high-strength steel and wood. Each material has pros and cons, so it’s best to explore both options to see which works best for you. In this article, we’ll examine a metal vs. wood garage and what makes each choice stand out.
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Key Considerations for Metal and Wood Garages
The most common type of wood garage is a stick-built garage, meaning that the wooden frame is put together “stick by stick” so that the frame resembles a popsicle stick house. These take far more time to put together than prefab metal buildings, which builders can install in less than a day.
Metal vs. Wood Garage Comparison
Let’s take a closer look at steel vs. wood garages and their differences side by side.
Metal
Wood
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This building looks amazing. The color match was perfect. The crew were very polite and worked hard. They took a magnet sweep to make sure they didn't leave any screws or metal pieces on the ground. I highly recommend this company
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The online metal carport configurator on this site is incredible. The level of detail and modularity is outstanding, and I don't know of any other retailer that can compete. Every price is clearly defined, which gave me total peace of mind and made the entire buying process incredibly easy!
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We were so excited to finally purchase and have a new carport installed. The entire experience was better than we could have imagined and it looks great!!
Love the site. Easy to use and design carport and see what we are getting. Was able to design my carport to my specific design and see what it would look like. Was able to add just the things I needed and nothing else. Loved using the site. If I ever need another shelter, will order from Alan's again.
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It was very user friendly and organized. Pricing was offered for every feature added and the sum total was visible the entire time. The 360 degree visual of selections was great. Each feature had a brief description. Other companies should take note. I have not seen this anywhere else
Amazing website, great color options, very competitive pricing, simple and easy ordering, building, and plan delivery, phone operator picked up quickly and is locally based. Totally blown away, wouldn't have a workshop without them.
Very satisfied with the turnout of my carport, was installed perfectly, and professionally, price was very reasonable compared to other dealers , actually was less, the online process let me be the architect of my carport, this was my second carport, definitely recommend allans
Very easy to access website and browse the buildings. It was easy to follow the directions to get the product ordered, too! Well done website! Thank you!
customer service has been exceptional when asking a question. site is extremely easy to use and break down of cost clear and direct.
This site makes it so easy, its free delivery and install, and you wont find a better price anywhere. You can customize everything very well.
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The website was easy to use. Your design tool was great; we were able to see our design as we picked the colors, size, and extras. Then printed a copy of the design to put in our records. Thanks again, Gary & Sharon Hart
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Choosing Between a Metal and Wood Garage
Durability
Metal garages are generally more durable than wood garages and can last longer with proper care. A well-maintained metal garage can last over 100 years without major rust issues, and it won’t be damaged by termites, rodents, rot, or other pests.
Metal can still have vulnerabilities, especially condensation in some climates, but rust can be controlled and prevented with regular maintenance.
Appearance
You can customize your metal garage to fit your property and storage needs, including size, color, doors, windows, and other features.
Wood garages often have a more traditional look and may feel like a natural extension of your home. They can also include trim, matching finishes, or even a second story for guest space or extra storage.
Installation
Prefab metal garages are manufactured in a factory, delivered, and installed on-site, often in less than a day.
Wood garages, stick-built garages, and other custom builds usually take longer to construct and may require more permits and inspections, depending on where you live.
Insulation, Heating, and Cooling
Depending on the type of wood you use, wood garages can be easier to insulate, heat, and cool. You can insulate a stick-built garage with fiberglass insulation.
At the same time, there are several ways to efficiently insulate your metal garage.
Maintenance
Wood garages need more upkeep than metal garages, including pest control for carpenter ants, rodents, and termites, which are some of the most difficult pests to remove.
They can also develop mold, mildew, or rot in wet weather and should be winterized in cold climates. Metal garages can rust, but yearly inspections, cleaning, and quick rust treatment help keep maintenance low.
Cost
In most cases, metal garages are cheaper to build than wood garages. Steel garage costs can start around $5 per square foot, compared to $7 and up for wood garages. Prefab metal garages from Alan’s Factory Outlet also include free delivery and installation.
You’ll still need permits, site prep, and a concrete foundation, but similar prep is usually required for a wood garage too.
Environmental Impact
Prefab metal garages are made in a factory, so there’s almost no material waste during construction.
There’s a much larger amount of waste in building a wood garage, although the overall environmental impact can also depend on the wood source, materials, and construction method.
Attached or Detached
Most metal garages are freestanding buildings. If you need a garage attached to your home, a wood garage is likely the better choice.
If a detached garage will work for you, metal is cheaper, quicker to build, and more durable.
Your Quick Guide to Metal Garages
Learn how to pick the right size, roof, and certification, see what drives price, and avoid common mistakes.
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Learn how to pick the right size, roof, and certification, see what drives price, and avoid common mistakes.
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Ultimately, the choice between a metal garage vs. wood comes down to your garage needs, your budget, and the climate you live in. The “best” option overall is the one that works for you.
If you’re ready to buy your own custom garage, let us help you customize one that’s exactly right for your needs. You can count on Alan’s Factory Outlet for great service and great prices!
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