Wooden Outbuildings and Their Applications
From housing lawn equipment to keeping the old classic muscle car safe from the elements, wooden outbuildings have served us well for years. In the past, these structures were highly affordable and could be constructed with minimal hassle.
However, things have changed a bit in the last few decades. Thanks to advances in modern engineering and the increasing cost of lumber, metal outbuildings have quickly usurped wooden alternatives as one of the most popular residential construction options.
But how do these two structure types stack up against one another? In this blog, we’ll answer just that and give you all the information you need to make the right decision for your needs. If you’d like to learn more about wooden and metal outbuilding costs and design differences, you’ve come to the right place.
Factors to Compare
While wooden outbuildings and metal outbuilding kits offer similar benefits, it’s clear that not every building is created equally. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest differences between these two structure types:
Design
Wooden outbuilding kits can often provide more design flexibility than their metal counterparts. Wood can be easily customized and shaped to fit specific architectural styles or personal preferences. However, metal buildings are also highly adaptable and can be catered to a wide array of aesthetic choices.
On the other hand, metal outbuildings are known for their clean lines and modern aesthetics. While they may lack the customizable options of wood, metal structures can still be adapted to various styles, especially in commercial and industrial settings.
Aesthetics
Aesthetics play a crucial role in the decision-making process. Wooden outbuildings can bring a classic appeal to your property. But thanks to advances in steel engineering, steel buildings can also be designed to suit any look or feel. And at a much more affordable price.
Fire Resistance and Insurance Costs
One of the key advantages of metal outbuildings is their superior fire resistance. Unlike wood, metal does not contribute to the spread of fire, making it a safer option for fire-prone activities. This additional safety often results in lower insurance costs, as insurers often consider fire resistance when determining premiums.
Wooden outbuildings, while charming, may pose a higher fire risk. In areas with strict building codes or increased insurance premiums for wooden structures, opting for a metal outbuilding kit could provide long-term cost savings.
DIY Construction and Installation Costs
DIY enthusiasts often appreciate the simplicity and ease of construction that comes with metal outbuilding kits. These kits typically include pre-cut and pre-drilled components, allowing you to complete the installation of your structure without paying additional construction costs.
Wooden outbuilding kits, while manageable for DIY projects, may require more intricate construction skills. The assembly process is more time-consuming and labor-intensive, potentially increasing overall costs and requiring a professional touch.
Maintenance Costs
Wooden outbuildings generally require more maintenance than their metal counterparts. Wood is susceptible to rot, insect infestations, and warping, demanding regular inspections and treatments to preserve its integrity. This ongoing maintenance can lead to higher long-term costs.
Metal outbuildings, on the other hand, are resistant to pests, rot, and weather-related damage. While they may require occasional painting to prevent corrosion, their overall maintenance demands are lower, translating to significant cost savings over time.
Overall Cost
When comparing the overall cost of wooden and metal building kits, it’s essential to consider factors such as design preferences, DIY capabilities, and long-term maintenance. While metal outbuilding kits may have a higher upfront cost, the savings in construction labor, maintenance, and potential insurance premiums can make them a more cost-effective choice over the structure’s lifespan.
Which Option is Right for Me?
Choosing the right outbuilding for your needs will likely extend beyond a simple pros and cons list. You’ll need to factor in the following concepts:
Budget
The most critical aspect of any construction project will be the budget. You’ll need to plan accordingly to find a structure type that meets your needs. Luckily, many metal outbuilding providers offer flexible financing and RTO options to make paying for your structure easy and hassle-free.
Whether You’ll Assemble It Yourself
If you’re hoping to save a few bucks, DIY metal building kits can do the trick. These structures come with all the components you’d find in a standard metal outbuilding, but you complete the installation yourself for a discount. For DIYers and those with a background in construction, this is a great way to minimize your project costs.
Do You Want an Authentic Wooden Aesthetic?
What is your preferred style? If you’re looking for a more traditional structure, a wooden outbuilding might be the right choice. But don’t discount metal buildings, because they can be customized to suit almost any aesthetic preference.
How Much Do You Want to Invest in Maintenance?
Wooden structures are notorious for wear and tear and will likely require regular maintenance to prevent larger issues. This can be costly over the life of your building. Luckily, metal outbuildings are naturally resistant to rust, mold, pests, fires, and more. This added level of protection will minimize your maintenance needs and significantly reduce overall repair costs.
How Durable Do Want Your Building to Be?
The longevity advantage that metal outbuildings have over wooden alternatives doesn’t end with maintenance. All in all, metal buildings can outlast stick-built construction by decades.
Make the Right Choice When You Work with the Boss
For years, Boss Buildings has been proud to supply customers with reliable structural solutions. Our expert’s dedication to craftsmanship shows in every facet of our buildings. We use modern engineering techniques to bring you a building that fits your style and functional needs.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re searching for one of our smaller metal outbuilding kits or you need a larger commercial-grade structure; we have the experience and high-quality materials to deliver.
So, what are you waiting for? Call Boss Buildings today at (866) 561-6378 and speak with one of our building specialists. We’ll be happy to guide you through the design process, provide valuable information and price quotes, and help you take the first steps into a new level of organization and protection. When you need
