Metal shed or wood shed? It's one of the most common questions we hear from Texas homeowners. Both have their place, but for most backyard storage needs in our climate, one clearly outperforms the other.
We've been building sheds across North Texas since 2017. We've also seen plenty of metal sheds - some holding up fine, others rusting out or caved in from hail. Here's what we've learned about metal vs wood sheds in real-world Texas conditions.
The Quick Answer
For most Texas homeowners, wood sheds are the better long-term investment. They handle our temperature extremes better, offer more customization, and actually add value to your property. Metal sheds cost less upfront but come with trade-offs that matter in our climate.
That said, metal sheds make sense for certain situations. Let's break down when each option works best.
Heat Performance: A Big Deal in Texas
This is where the metal shed vs wood shed debate gets real for Texans.
Metal conducts heat. On a 95°F summer day, the interior of a metal shed can hit 130°F or higher. We've talked to customers who couldn't even touch their metal shed doors in July. Anything stored inside - paint, electronics, leather goods, even some plastics - risks heat damage.
Wood naturally insulates. A wood shed stays significantly cooler, typically within 10-15 degrees of outside temperature with basic ventilation. Add insulation during construction and you can use the space year-round.
Durability: What Actually Holds Up
The common assumption is that metal lasts longer because it doesn't rot. True, but that's not the whole story.
Metal Shed Durability Issues
- Rust - Starts at seams, fasteners and scratches. Once it begins, it spreads.
- Dents - Hail, fallen branches, bumping with equipment. Dents don't pop out.
- Thin gauge steel - Affordable metal sheds use thin metal that degrades faster than you'd expect.
- Condensation - Temperature swings cause moisture buildup inside, leading to rust from within.
Wood Shed Durability
- Rot resistance - Pressure-treated lumber and proper construction prevent rot for decades.
- Impact tolerance - Wood flexes and absorbs impacts without permanent damage.
- Repairability - A damaged board can be replaced. Try replacing a dented metal panel.
- Weather sealing - Quality construction with proper flashing keeps water out.
A properly built wood shed with basic maintenance easily lasts 20-30+ years. Many metal sheds start showing serious wear at 10-15 years. Need a permit for your shed? Check our Fort Worth building permits guide.
Cost Comparison: Upfront vs Total
| Factor | Metal Shed | Wood Shed |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower (20-40% less) | Higher |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years typical | 20-30+ years |
| Repair Costs | Difficult, often requires replacement | Easy board replacement |
| Modification Cost | Expensive (welding/cutting) | Straightforward carpentry |
| Resale Value Added | Minimal | Adds property value |
Metal wins on day-one price. But when you factor in shorter lifespan, harder repairs and zero property value contribution, wood typically costs less per year of use.
Customization: Getting What You Actually Need
This is where wood sheds pull ahead significantly.
Metal sheds come in fixed sizes - whatever the manufacturer offers. Need 14x22? Too bad. Want a taller door for your riding mower? Not an option. Planning to add a window later? Good luck cutting through metal walls.
Wood sheds can be built to any dimension. Door placement, window locations, interior layout, exterior finish - all customizable. And modifications down the road are straightforward carpentry, not metalwork.
When Metal Sheds Make Sense
We're not saying metal sheds are always wrong. They work well for:
- Temporary storage - If you only need it for a few years
- Tight budgets - When upfront cost is the only factor
- Non-climate-sensitive items - Outdoor furniture, some yard equipment
- Rental properties - Where you don't need long-term durability
When Wood Sheds Are the Clear Choice
- Workshops or hobby spaces - You'll actually spend time inside
- Long-term storage - Protecting valuable items for years
- Property value matters - Wood structures add real value
- Custom sizes needed - Your space isn't a standard rectangle
- Texas heat - Which is... most of the year
- HOA communities - Wood sheds can match your home's exterior
What About Plastic Sheds?
Since people also ask about plastic vs wood sheds - plastic (resin) sheds share most of metal's drawbacks: fixed sizes, difficult modifications, minimal property value. They also fade and become brittle in UV exposure over time. The only advantage is zero rust. For serious storage needs in Texas, wood still wins.
Bottom Line
For most Texas homeowners investing in backyard storage, a quality wood shed is the smarter choice. Better heat performance, longer lifespan, easier customization and actual property value. Metal sheds have their place, but if you're building something to last, wood is the way to go.
Ready to Build?
We build custom wood sheds on-site across North Texas - Fort Worth, Denton, Decatur and surrounding areas. Any size, any configuration, built right on your property.
Pricing starts at $2,286 with 0% financing available.