Discover the key factors that can influence your decision and ultimately determine which option is the best fit for your specific needs and preferences. Let’s explore the nuances of these two popular garage construction methods and guide you towards making an informed choice for a structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing addition to your property. Over the past few months, the user has been exploring various construction options, weighing the benefits of timber, wood, and concrete blocks for their upcoming project. 

Wood Frame

Pros

Better wall insulation: the space between the wooden studs in the wall offers ample room for insulation. The air inside a well ventilated timber structure feels refreshing, providing a stark contrast to the sturdy and fire resistant nature of concrete blocks. 

Faster and less expensive: wood frame walls can be erected more quickly and, although only marginally less costly for a straightforward rectangular home, they prove significantly more economical for residences featuring intricate exterior wall and window layouts. Additionally, the process of running plumbing and electrical systems through the walls is more straightforward with wood framing.

Easier to remodel: it is simpler and less expensive to add a window or door to a wood frame wall.

Cons

Perceived as less hurricane-resistant than concrete block: wood frame and concrete block homes must adhere to the same building code standards for storm resistance. For the past four decades, wood frame homes have been mandated to incorporate extensive metal connectors at the top and bottom of the wall, along with “shear wall” reinforcement at corners, to enhance overall structural strength. Despite these measures, concrete block homes have traditionally enjoyed a reputation as being more hurricane-resistant, even though this perception may no longer accurately reflect the current state of construction practices.

Less termite resistant: homes constructed with wood frames tend to have more wood in close proximity to the ground, increasing the likelihood of termite issues. However, contemporary advancements in termite prevention, such as bait traps, have enhanced the safety of both types of construction, providing effective measures against termite infestations.

Less resistant to moisture intrusion problems: wood frame homes typically feature exterior sheathing enveloped in a moisture resistant sheet meticulously taped around all openings. However, in the event that water infiltrates a wood wall, the resulting damage is often more extensive compared to a masonry wall. 

Concrete Block

Pros

More termite resistant: while termites do not consume concrete, rendering the block wall itself immune to damage, the wood furring strips within the wall, used as nailers for drywall, and the wood baseboard at the floor are susceptible to termite infestation. Surprisingly, the foundation type of older concrete block homes can make them more vulnerable to termites compared to wood frame structures.

More forgiving of moisture intrusion: block walls have the ability to absorb small amounts of water that get through the stucco, and dissipate it through evaporation over time without causing any damage to the interior.

Impact resistant: concrete is strong and durable, and when combined with wood in the form of timber framing, it creates a resilient structure that can withstand various environmental challenges over the years.

Fire resistance: one of the great aspects of concrete is that it is a good naturally fire resistant. The block garage is more fire resistant than its wooden counterparts, making it a preferable choice for homeowners seeking enhanced safety features in their structures.

Cons

Slower and more expensive: A block wall is more labor intensive to build, so it has a higher cost. 

Not as energy efficient: achieving a level of insulation in a block wall equivalent to that of a wood frame wall can be challenging. However, block construction provides an additional advantage due to its thermal mass. The material absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night, creating a buffering effect that helps regulate heat transmission and condensation through the wall, offering a smoothing effect between day and night temperatures.

Ultimately, homeowners can decided to opt for a block garage or a traditional wood frame garage considering your personal preference, your budget and your priorities.

If you are looking for contractors for your important home remodeling project at New America Construction we provide custom general additions estimates for all NJ homeowners.

Call us for more information 973-804-9400 

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