How To Select the Right Metal for Your Fabrication Needs

When designing a structural change for a home or commercial space, such as a fence, look for a material that matches the preexisting structure. Capitol Iron Works offers custom metal fabrication services; these include welding, punching, and assembly. Here is more information on how to select the right metal for your fabrication needs: 

Wrought Iron

When choosing materials for metal fabrication projects, match them to the design of the home or project. Wrought iron offers a distinct, traditional appearance, and this works well for both residential and commercial spaces. You can use this material for decorative or functional purposes. 

A metal fabrication company is able to create custom designs for a more ornate look, as this material offers a workability that allows for handcrafted details. A company can hand-forge the material to create railings and decorative accents for your home. Designs include scrollwork, logos, and finials. Decorative railings help enhance the property’s curb appeal. Bring your own drawings to the metal fabricator company to show your design preferences. During the design process, we offer shop drawings to allow you to see the designs of your custom pieces and make ornamental changes. 

Wrought iron is also versatile, allowing it to be used for gates, staircases, and fences. This material can also be used for both exterior and interior stair railings. Interior railings act as a safety precaution, and they require a sturdy material. Exterior railings are used for decks and porches. A durable material such as wrought iron is more resistant to weather conditions. Metal railing fabricators are also able to restore preexisting iron railings. 

Strong iron gates also offer additional security as a visual deterrent, demonstrating that the premises are protected. The strength of the material helps resist attempts to cut or damage the gates; this helps protect your property. Gate options include metal security gates, automatic gates, and AC fences.

Steel 

Structural steel is a strong material that is appropriate for structural elements; this includes frames, beams, columns, and trusses. Steel is used in construction projects, such as strengthening the foundation of your home. It can meet engineering requirements for industrial facilities and commercial spaces. Capitol Iron Works follows precision welding and engineering techniques. 

When creating outdoor applications for environments prone to erosion, such as humid or chemical spaces, use stainless steel. This material is an alloy that utilizes chromium content, which adds an additional layer that helps prevent corrosion and rust. It also works to self-repair scratches; this allows construction and fabrication companies to use steel in outdoor projects. It also requires little cleaning and maintains full strength at different temperatures.

Stainless steel grade 316 is appropriate for outdoor and indoor use. The material provides slip-resistance surfaces; treads can be added, making it safer for people to ascend and descend. The material is strong enough for reliable handrails. You can use stainless steel for fire escapes, as it is heat-resistant. Stainless steel is available for deck railings, fences, and gates.

Aluminum

For a more lightweight option, use aluminum; this material offers an alternative to heavier gates. Lighter gates may be appropriate for businesses and homes that experience a higher amount of foot traffic and require easier access. Capitol Iron Works is able to use aluminum to create lighter brackets and frames. 

Aluminum also complements modern designs. Its durability makes it ideal for stair railings and handrails. The material is rust-resistant, allowing it to be used for fences around pools, gardens, and other outdoor spaces. Aluminum also has a higher ductility, which is the ability to be formed without cracking, and it allows aluminum sheet metal to be used in more complex formations.

Learn More About Metal Fabrication

Choosing a material that is appropriate for the environment, function, and property can help extend the lifespan of the project. Capitol Iron Works also offers finishes such as powder coating to match your preferred color. Our website includes a photo gallery of our different projects; this provides you with visual examples of our work. We follow safety regulations during installation and make sure that your proposed design meets the structural requirements of the property. When searching “metal fabrication services near me,” we invite you to contact Capitol Iron Works about your project today.