Top 5 Questions To Ask Your Metal Fabricator

1. What type of material are you using for my project?

Metal’s biggest price factor is the weight and one way that poorly managed fabrication shops will cheat the customer is by getting a thinner and lighter material. Thus lowering his price while keeping the customers the same and sacrificing quality.

2. Is the metal painted or powder coated?

For a durable and long lasting finish on metal always make sure that the metal you receive is getting powder coated not painted. The process for powder coating ensures a finish that is tougher and more resistant to scratches and abrasions. Powder coat bonds and adheres to the metal as well through a process which includes baking the metal sometimes in excess of 500 degrees. The metal lasts much longer because it is more resistant to rust and corrosion.

3. Is every metal connection welded?

This is especially important to ask when any metal project is placed outside. When a connection of two pieces of metal is left un-welded it creates a hole for moisture and water to increase the rate of deterioration. Another reason to make sure you are receiving fully welded connections is that the strength of the metal is increased.

4. What projects do you have ahead of mine?

If you are in a hurry for a project a great question to ask is this one, it will give you a sense of how quickly you are likely to see that important project finished. Make sure to also ask about his schedule flexibility and try to get a deadline in writing if you don’t want to see your project late.

5. Do you have experience with this type of project?

Far too often people will hire a company who doesn’t have the proper experience and the result may not be catastrophic but quality typically is lacking is some areas. Always make sure the company your hiring is capable of handling your request.