Expert Articles

Five Tips for Planning Specialty Welding and Architectural Metal Fabrication Projects

By Ron Lewis

Architects, designers and builders know the value of hiring an architectural metal fabrication and specialty welding expert. Experienced metal contractors provide precision, strength, beauty and functionality for all kinds of architectural fabrication and installation projects. Architectural metal work can be done in bronze, stainless steel, aluminum, brass and more. Finishing welds must be smooth, clean and meet all safety and quality standards. Architectural metal contractors also complete field repairs and regular maintenance in order to keep various systems operational and different metals looking their best.

There are five tips you want to follow when planning for architectural metal fabrication and installation. If you follow these guidelines while working with experienced, skilled welders and metal fabricators you can rest assured your project will be done correctly, safely and efficiently.

Tip 1: Understand the Differences between Metals and How They Function

One major concern architects and builders often encounter is how to choose the best metal for each project. Only an educated metal contractor knows the real differences between various metals and the long term uses associated with each. Once the right metal has been recommended architectural fabrication and installation can be completed when all other building has been finished. All other construction must be complete due to the sensitive nature of architectural and ornamental metal work. Avoid the risk of the metal work being scratched or dented.

Tip 2: Remember Metal Fabrication and Installation are Customized Services

Even if a reputable company has completed projects similar to what you would like to construct metal contracting and certified welding are extremely customized services. Simple changes in color or materials require an educated, professional opinion. Each location is unique and every client’s building needs are individual. Don’t expect a one size fits all answer. Find quality welding and metal fabrication experts that can create a solution that is perfect for your company and will help you accomplish your goals.

Tip 3: Clients are Responsible for the Daily and Weekly Care and Maintenance of Architectural Metal Work

The care and maintenance of architectural items, especially bronze, copper and mirror finish, stainless steel fabrication, is essential for the long term preservation of the metal work. Bronze and copper have to be clear coated to stop oxidation. In high traffic areas mirror finish can easily be scratched with rings, purses, umbrellas, etc. Consult with your metal fabrication and installation team to find out what the best daily and weekly cleaning and maintenance practices are.

Tip 4: Make Architectural and Metal Fabrication Safety and Quality Your #1 Priority

Quality and safety requirements are strict and important in the architectural metal fabrication and specialty welding fields. The safety of the public, employees and the building itself must be the number one priority of any business. Spare no expense when it comes to architectural projects of this nature. The quality of your architectural metal fabrication and specialty welding team will ensure safety during every step of the metal fabrication process.

Tip 5: Be Creative and Take Advantage of State of the Art Metal Fabrication Technology

Many companies in the United States provide quality welding and metal work, but not all of them are architectural experts and utilize the latest, most advanced technology. Choose to work with a team of certified welders and metal fabricators that have a state of the art facility and guarantee the kind of precision necessary to fabricate and install architectural metal systems that are durable and beautiful. Also, be creative. When crafting handrails, elevators, doors and other architectural items use your imagination and set your company apart.