When comparing steel versus wood framing, steel almost always comes out on top in terms of durability, safety, and long-term savings. While wood is traditional, steel offers resistance to fire, pests, and warping, while allowing for greater design flexibility. At American Steel Carports, Inc., we help property owners customize affordable, low-maintenance steel buildings that last for decades.

One of the biggest advantages you can have when creating a new building is being able to customize all of the little details that go into the design. That’s one big advantage that steel framing has over wood right from the start. Steel buildings are easy to customize, especially when you work with a partner like American Steel Carports, Inc. on the project. Try our Build & Price tool now to see what you can design, and contact us directly if you have any questions.   

Steel vs. Wood Framing at a Glance

Feature	Steel Framing	Wood Framing
Durability	Won’t warp, crack, or rot	Expands, contracts, warps over time
Pest Resistance	Termite- and insect-proof	Vulnerable to termites and other pests
Fire Safety	Non-combustible	Highly flammable
Maintenance	Minimal upkeep required	Requires frequent repairs and treatments
Design Flexibility	Allows clear spans, tall walls, open layouts	Limited by material strength
Sustainability	Made with recycled steel, fully recyclable	Requires cutting down trees
Construction Speed	Fast, efficient assembly	Longer build times
Long-Term Cost	Lower maintenance + repair savings	Higher upkeep costs over time

What are the drawbacks of wood framing? 

• Over time, wood will expand and contract as moisture levels change, causing your building to shift and become prone to warping or cracking subtly. 
• This means that ongoing maintenance will be necessary to keep a wooden building in good condition.  
• Some small pests, such as termites, prefer to consume wood, gradually eroding the structure. 
• And, since wood is highly flammable, it can even be a dangerous choice in certain situations.   

Why is steel framing a better choice?  

Steel is extremely stable and is not prone to changes like expansion and contraction due to moisture. It also isn’t going to twist or warp over time. When you get your steel framing from a reliable, quality source, you can be sure that it will stand rock solid over the long run.  

Steel also isn’t going to burn, and it doesn’t attract insects. As a result, very little maintenance is required to keep a steel-framed building in good condition. 

Are steel or wood buildings easier to design?

It’s far easier to achieve things like large, clear spans and high walls with steel than it is with wood. Steel is both light and incredibly strong, which opens up design possibilities that simply don’t exist when wood is used. If you are hoping to create a large building with high ceilings and tons of open, uninterrupted space in the middle, there is simply no substitute for what steel can provide.  If you’re exploring design ideas, check out our guide on the top roof styles for Texas steel buildings to see how different roof options can complement your framing choice.

Is steel framing more expensive than wood?  

No, steel framing is not more expensive than wood. Steel buildings are faster to construct than wood ones, meaning you’ll spend less on labor to have the structure created. And, since steel buildings are so durable and require such little maintenance, you can save in the long run, as well. When you blend the potential for short-term and long-term cost savings, the financial picture looks great for a metal building project.  

How do steel buildings perform in extreme weather?

Steel framing is designed to stand up to high winds, heavy snow, and even seismic activity better than wood. Because steel doesn’t absorb moisture or rot, it won’t weaken in wet climates. In areas prone to storms, fire risk, or pests, steel buildings often provide better insurance ratings and peace of mind compared to wood.

Are steel buildings environmentally friendly?

Steel is one of the most sustainable building materials available today. Most steel used in construction is made with recycled content, and the entire frame can be recycled at the end of its lifespan. Unlike wood, which requires cutting down trees, steel reduces strain on forests while still offering strength and flexibility for custom designs.

Build a Custom Steel Building

Now that you have found a reliable, experienced partner like American Steel Carports, Inc. for the project, the only thing left to do is work out your design for your next steel building and place the order. We are ready to jump into action! 

 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Is steel framing popular?

Yes, steel framing is widely used in the US because it withstands weather conditions better than wood.  

How long does a steel-framed building last?

With proper installation, steel buildings can last 50+ years with minimal maintenance.  

Can I finance a steel building project? 

Yes, American Steel Carports, Inc. offers financing options for customers.

Are steel buildings faster to install than wood?

Yes, most steel buildings can be completed weeks faster than wood-framed alternatives.  

Do steel buildings cost more upfront than wood?

Not always—labor and long-term maintenance savings often make steel the more affordable choice overall.