When it comes to building a detached garage or workshop, you’ve got options—but not all builds are created equal. One of the most common comparisons homeowners face is between a traditional pole barn and a stud frame garage. At first glance, they might seem similar, but the differences in quality, construction, and long-term performance are major. Here’s why a stud frame garage—especially the kind we build—is the better investment.
Pole Barns: Quick and Basic, But Limited
Pole barns are popular because of their simplicity. They’re built entirely on-site using large posts embedded into the ground as the main structural support. This makes them fast to frame up, but that speed comes with trade-offs.
Pole barns typically lack a solid wall structure. Instead of standard framed walls, the siding is often attached directly to the posts with little or no underlayment or insulation plan in mind. That makes finishing the interior—a must if you want insulation, drywall, or electrical work—a much bigger headache down the line.
Also, since every part of a pole barn goes up in your yard, expect crews and materials on your property for several days, dealing with everything from framing to roofing out in the elements.
Stud Frame Garages: Built to Last, Built Right
Our stud frame garages aren’t just a better structure—they’re a better process. Here’s how:
- Built in our shop. We pre-build the walls in a controlled environment using precision tools and skilled labor. That means better quality control, faster installation, and less mess in your yard.
- Framed with 2x6s, 16″ on center. This creates a solid, durable frame that’s stronger than most pole barn wall systems.
- Multiple siding options. Choose between metal or traditional wooden lap siding.
- Layered wall system. We install ½” plywood underlayment between the siding and studs, with a house wrap barrier in between. That extra protection makes a big difference in moisture resistance and energy efficiency.
- Insulation-ready. If you plan to insulate or finish the interior, a stud frame garage is the way to go. The standard framing makes it much easier to run wiring, insulate, and install drywall cleanly.
Think Long-Term
If you’re just parking equipment under a roof, a pole barn might get the job done. But if you’re building a garage that will last, that you might heat, insulate, or finish later on, a framed garage is the smarter choice. It offers real walls, real structure, and real flexibility.
We build garages the right way—built strong, built clean, built to last.
