If you’re having a garage built, one of the first things you’ll need to ask yourself is whether to choose a timber frame or a metal frame. While metal does have its advantages, most homeowners find themselves better off using timber, and here are just four important reasons why.
- Easier to Build
A timber-frame garage will only require a single concrete slab for its foundation. Metal frames are significantly heavier, so they require additional foundation materials. Additionally, metal garages require specialized tools and technical expertise. Of course, you probably won’t be able to put together a timber-frame garage all by yourself, but you should find that contractors will put up a wooden garage a lot faster than a metal garage.
- Excellent Insulation
Wood has been prized as a building material for years, and that’s largely down to its fantastic insulating qualities. Wood is a great natural insulator because it’s very thick and contains thousands of tiny air pockets. Metal garages let in the cold a lot more easily, so they aren’t as pleasant to work in and aren’t as capable of saving your vehicle from the automotive issues associated with freezing weather conditions.
- No Risk of Rust
When you’re dealing with metal, you need to think about the possibility of rust. Even galvanized steel can rust if it’s scratched, and this is a problem since condensation tends to collect in metal buildings. Once rust sets in, it can be incredibly expensive to fix. In the meantime, your structure will be weaker, and holes will probably develop.
- More Attractive
Last but not least, metal structures just aren’t as attractive as wooden structures. They are usually a more economical choice, and their appearance reflects that – metal-framed garages are generally available in only a few colour and design options. In contrast, timber-frame garages look great thanks to their traditional and natural appeal. Curb appeal is important, so don’t hesitate to spend a little more on a garage that makes your home look better instead of worse.
