Steel vs Wood Garage: Which One Is Right for Your Home?

Thinking about adding prefab garages to your property? One of the biggest decisions you'll face is choosing the right material—and it’s not just about looks. The material you choose impacts everything from how well your garage holds up in your climate to how much maintenance (and money) it’ll require over the years. 

Let’s break down the pros and cons of steel vs wood garages — specifically highlighting two high-quality options: LP® SmartSide® engineered wood and Long Creek’s Tuff Rib Steel siding. 

Whether you’re focused on durability, budget, or curb appeal, we’ll help you figure out which garage type is the best fit for your home and lifestyle.

Which Material Holds Up Best Over Time?

When it comes to prefab garages, durability should be a top priority. 

You want a structure that’s going to stand the test of time — and the weather. Both steel and engineered wood offer impressive resilience, but the right choice depends on your climate and what kind of wear and tear your garage will face.

Steel garages are resistant to rot, insects, and fire. If you live in an area with high humidity or wildfire risk, steel is a smart choice. It won’t warp or attract termites, and it's naturally non-combustible. 

That said, steel can be prone to dents in extreme weather — think hailstorms or heavy impacts. So while it’s tough, it’s not entirely immune to damage.

Wood garages, particularly those made with LP® SmartSide® engineered wood, are built for strength and impact resistance. 

Unlike traditional wood, LP® SmartSide® is treated with SmartGuard® technology to resist fungal decay and termite damage, making it a far more durable option than you might expect. 

Still, wood needs a little more attention when it comes to moisture and pests. In wet climates, proper sealing and upkeep are key to maintaining longevity.

Which Garage Requires Less Upkeep?

Let’s talk about time and effort. Nobody wants prefab garages that become a maintenance headache.

Steel garages are relatively low maintenance. You won’t have to worry about insect damage or rot, and they tend to hold up well for years with minimal care. 

However, over time, especially in coastal areas or spots with heavy rain, rust may become a concern. Repainting or treating rust spots might be necessary down the line.

Wood garages, on the other hand, need a little more love. You’ll want to repaint or restain every few years to keep them looking their best and to protect the material from moisture. 

That said, if a section of your wooden garage becomes damaged, it’s usually easier (and cheaper) to repair than steel.

LP® SmartSide® resists common issues like moisture and insects better than traditional wood and requires less frequent maintenance. It’s designed to look great and stay protected for years, with less upkeep than you’d expect from a wood product.

Which Option Fits Your Budget?

Budget is one of the biggest deciding factors when it comes to choosing prefab garages, so let’s break it down.

Steel garages tend to be more affordable upfront. They also take less time to install, which can help cut down on labor costs. If you’re looking for a fast, economical solution that still offers plenty of durability, steel is a great place to start.

Wood garages, especially custom-built ones, can come with a higher price tag. But with that higher investment comes greater flexibility in design, along with increased property value and curb appeal.

Long-Term Cost Considerations

• Steel might save you money in the short term with minimal maintenance, but dents and repairs could add up over time.
• Traditional wood comes with more frequent maintenance costs, but its charm, functionality, and resale value often make it a worthwhile investment.

Which Garage Matches Your Property Best?

Let’s face it—your garage isn’t just about function. It’s a part of your property’s visual appeal, and you want it to look good.

Steel garages typically offer a clean, modern appearance. With sleek lines and multiple color options, they can pair well with contemporary homes. If you’re after a minimal, streamlined look, steel might be the way to go.

Wood garages are where customization really shines. With a range of finishes, trims, and paint colors, it’s easy to design a structure that perfectly complements your home’s style. Our LP® SmartSide® garages are especially versatile, providing the classic warmth of wood with the added benefit of engineered performance.

No matter your aesthetic preference, we offer both Tuff Rib Steel and LP® SmartSide® garages in a variety of finishes to ensure your prefab garages enhance your home’s exterior, not clash with it.

Choosing the Right Garage for Your Needs

So, how do you decide between a steel vs wood garage? It comes down to your unique priorities and environment.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Best for Affordability & Low Maintenance: Steel Garage
If you want a budget-friendly garage that’s simple to maintain, steel is a reliable choice.

Best for Customization & Aesthetics: Wood Garage
If you care about matching your garage to your home’s look or need a unique layout, wood wins here.

Best for Weather Protection: It depends

• Steel is great for high humidity or wildfire-prone regions.
• LP® SmartSide® wood offers excellent impact resistance and can thrive in varied climates with the right care.

By weighing your climate, maintenance expectations, budget, and design preferences, you’ll be able to choose the garage that works best for your long-term goals.

Why Choose Dakota for Your Garage?

At Dakota, we believe quality starts with materials and ends with craftsmanship. Whether you go with LP® SmartSide® engineered wood or Long Creek’s Tuff Rib Steel, you’re getting a garage built to last — and built to impress.

• LP® SmartSide®: Durable, beautiful, and treated to resist rot, decay, and pests. It gives you that timeless wood appearance with a much longer lifespan.
• Tuff Rib Steel: Low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and ideal for homeowners who want a fast, no-fuss solution.

At Dakota, our prefab garages come with customization options to suit any layout, size, or style you need. Our team is committed to helping you find (or design) the right garage for your home and building it with care.

Make Your Garage Investment Count

Choosing between a steel vs wood garage doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It just comes down to what matters most to you — durability, budget, style, or ease of maintenance.

With our high-quality materials and customizable designs, you don’t have to compromise. Whether you’re drawn to the low-maintenance appeal of steel or the warm, customizable charm of engineered wood, we’ve got prefab garages that will meet your needs and last for years to come.

Need more help deciding? Download our free Garage Buying Guide to explore your options, weigh your priorities, and confidently invest in a garage that fits your life.