Picking the right garage isn’t always easy. Maybe you just moved into a new house and need space for your car, tools, or a workshop. Or your old garage is already full, and you need more storage. So now you’re asking yourself: should you choose a metal garage or a wood garage?
Both types have their own benefits. If you compare a steel garage vs a wooden garage, you’ll notice the differences in price, look, and maintenance. Metal garages often come as ready-made kits that are quick to put together, while wood garages take more time but offer a classic style.
In this guide, we will cover everything from the cost and maintenance to storage, style, and durability. By the end, you will have a clear idea of which garage is the best fit for your home. If you’re planning a new garage in Richmond, VA, LHC Services can design and build the right option for your home whether you prefer metal or wood.
What Kind of Garage Are We Talking About?
Understanding the types of garages is important before comparing them. Let’s break it down.
Wood Garages
Wood garages are usually built right on your property using timber. This is called “stick-built,” where each piece of wood is cut and put together on-site. Wood frame garages can be small one-car garages or larger two-car garages with extra space for storage.
Many people choose wood because it has a classic, traditional look. You can also add shelves, cabinets, or even a loft to store tools and seasonal items. Wood feels warm and natural and matches well with different home styles. The downside is it needs more care, you will have to paint or seal it and check for pests regularly.
Metal Garages
Metal garages are often prefabricated, meaning they come in panels that are assembled quickly on-site. Some are fully enclosed to protect cars and belongings from the weather, while others are simpler metal carports that provide shade and cover but remain open on the sides.
Metal garages are strong and easy to take care of. They’re a good choice if you want something quick to build that will last for years without problems like bugs or rot. You can use them to park your car, store things, or even set up a workshop. The main difference is in the structure. Metal garages use steel panels, while wood garages use timber. This difference affects cost, maintenance, and lifespan.
Metal vs Wood Garage Costs
According to HomeAdvisor’s garage cost guide, the average cost of building a wood garage ranges from $40 to $70 per square foot, while prefabricated steel garages usually cost $25 to $50 per square foot.
Materials
When comparing garage building materials, steel panels for a metal garage usually cost more than basic lumber for a small project. However, because metal garages mostly come as ready-to-assemble kits, the overall labor cost can be lower. Wood garages might cost less in materials if you use local timber, but skilled labor can increase the price.
Labor & Construction
Metal garages are fast to assemble, sometimes in just a few days. Pre-built kits are especially convenient for people who don’t have carpentry skills. Wood garages take longer because each piece needs to be measured, cut, and assembled, which increases up overall garage construction costs. They require more skill and tools, which can add to the labor cost.
According to LHC Services in Richmond, VA, most prefab steel garages can be completed in 2–4 days, while stick-built wood garages may take 2–4 weeks depending on size and design.
Pre-Built vs Custom
Pre-built garages are faster to put up and usually cost less for labor, but you don’t get as many options for size, style, or features. A custom wood garage gives you the freedom to choose the layout, storage, and look you want, but it often takes more time to build and can be more expensive.
Enclosed vs Open
An enclosed metal garage costs more than a simple carport because it has walls and a door, but it keeps your cars and belongings safe from weather and pests. Wood garages are almost always enclosed, giving you flexibility to add storage, workbenches, or even a loft for seasonal items.
Regional & Climate Variations
The climate where you live can help decide which garage is better. Metal garages work well in humid areas since they don’t get termites or mold. Wood garages are better in dry places and can cost less if lumber is easy to find. In snowy areas, metal garages usually handle the weight better, while wood garages may need extra support.
According to the Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), properly engineered steel garages can withstand up to 60 pounds of snow load per square foot, which is why they’re often preferred in colder regions.
Long-Term Costs and Maintenance Needs
Maintenance
Wood garages need regular maintenance. This can include painting every few years, sealing the wood, and checking for termites or rot. If neglected, wood can warp or weaken.
Metal garages are easier to care for. Occasionally, you may need to check for rust or clean the exterior. Some homeowners choose to paint metal garages to improve the look, but it’s not always necessary.
Lifespan
Metal garages can last 30 years or more. Wood garages typically last 20-25 years if they are well maintained. The main difference depends on how much the garage is exposed to moisture, pests, and the quality of the materials used.
Durability & Safety
In a garage durability comparison, metal garages do not catch fire easily and won’t get termites or rot. Wood can be treated to protect it, but it’s still more at risk. This matters most if you live in a place where termites or wildfires are common.
Insulation & Energy Costs
Wood naturally keeps the garage warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Metal garages might need extra insulation in very hot or cold climates, which adds a bit of cost but makes them comfortable all year.
The U.S. Department of Energy explains that adding R-13 to R-19 insulation can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs in metal structures.
Other Factors to Think About
Appearance & Style
Wood garages can be painted or stained to match your house. They have a classic, cozy look. Metal garages look more modern and practical, but you can make them look nicer by choosing different roof or siding colors.
Speed of Build
Metal garages are faster to put up. Many prefab kits can be built in just a few days, which makes them a good choice if you need a garage quickly. Wood garages take longer, especially if they are custom made. A stick-built wood garage has to be cut, assembled, and finished on-site, which can take weeks depending on the size and design.
Local Rules
Both metal and wood garages need a strong, level foundation to stay safe and stable. Most places also require building permits before construction, so you will need to check local rules. Some cities or neighborhoods have restrictions on size, style, or materials, which can make it easier to get approval for a metal garage than a wood one..
Environmental Impact
Wood is a renewable material, which makes it an environmentally friendly choice. However, it needs regular care like painting, sealing, and sometimes chemical treatments to protect it from pests and rot. Metal garages are very durable and can be recycled at the end of their life, which is good for the environment. The downside is that producing metal takes a lot of energy, so its initial environmental impact is higher than wood.
Storage and Practical Use
Storage Needs
Your garage material affects how well it protects your items. Wood garages can absorb moisture, so tools, boxes, or seasonal items might get damaged if the space is not well ventilated. Metal garages keep things drier but can get very hot in summer or very cold in winter unless you add insulation.
Enclosed Metal Garage
An enclosed metal garage offers strong protection for vehicles, tools, and other belongings from weather and pests. If you plan to store temperature-sensitive items like paint or electronics, adding insulation or vents helps keep the interior safe and usable throughout the year.
Interior Layout
Both wood and metal garages can have shelves, cabinets, or lofts for extra storage. Wood garages are easier to modify later for custom shelving or workbenches. Metal garages may have pre-drilled panels or built-in supports, which can limit some changes, but they are still very practical and efficient for organizing your space.
Which is cheaper: Metal or Wood Garage?
For a small one-car garage, pre-built metal kits are usually cheaper upfront and can be put up quickly. A small wood garage might cost less if you do some of the work yourself. For a two-car garage, wood can get expensive because of the cost of materials and labor. Metal garages may still be cheaper over time since they need less maintenance and last longer.
It’s important to think about the total garage construction costs, not just the initial price. If you add up the cost of upkeep over 20 to 30 years, metal often comes out ahead. Wood, however, offers more style and customization options if that matters most to you.
Conclusion
Choosing between metal and wood depends on what you need. Metal garages are strong, easy to take care of, and fast to build. Wood garages look nice, can be made the way you want, and give more storage options, but they need more care. Think about your budget, how you’ll use it, and how much work you want to put into upkeep. If you want something tough and simple, go with metal. If you want style and custom design, wood is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Metal garages often cost less to insure, sometimes 20–40% cheaper. This is because they don’t burn as easily, don’t get termites, and hold up better in storms. Wood garages are more at risk for fire, pests, and rot, so they can raise premiums. The exact savings depend on your location and insurer.
Yes, in most cases. A metal garage adds solid value because it lasts longer and needs little upkeep. In some markets, you can get back 70–100% of what you spend. Wood garages can also add value, especially if they match the style of the home, but they don’t last as long and need more care. Metal is better for long-term value, while wood is better for curb appeal