How Much Does Welding Cost? [2025 Data]

This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by an Angi Editor in accordance with our AI policy.

On average, homeowners spend $700 for welding services, with prices ranging from $100 to $2,500 per project. Costs vary based on the type of welding, materials used, and project complexity. Hourly rates range from $50 to $125, while minor repairs may be less expensive and custom jobs more costly.

Welding is essential for repairs, installations, and custom metalwork around the home. Understanding these costs helps you budget for both small fixes and large projects, ensuring you get safe, lasting results.

Welding Cost Factors

Understanding how much welding costs starts with the factors that influence your total price. Let’s walk through the most important details.

Types

Welding comes in several types, each suited for different tasks and price points. The most common methods include MIG (Metal Inert Gas), TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas), stick (arc), flux-cored, and spot welding. MIG is popular for general repairs and automotive work, while TIG is used for precise, decorative, or thin metal projects. Stick welding is used for heavy-duty jobs, while spot welding is commonly employed in sheet metal assembly.

Each method affects the cost of welding. For example, TIG welding is slower and requires more skill, so it costs more per project than MIG. Repairs, fabrication, and installation each have different labor and material requirements, resulting in varying costs accordingly.

Size

Project size is a major cost driver. Small repairs—like patching a gate or fixing a railing—cost less than the price of installing a large steel beam or fabricating a custom staircase. Welders may charge by the inch, foot, or per joint, depending on the job.

For small welds, expect to pay for a minimum service fee, even if the work takes only a short time. Larger projects, such as structural welding, are priced by length or total area, with costs rising as the project grows.

Materials

The type of metal being welded plays a significant role in determining the cost of welding. Steel is the most affordable option, while stainless steel and aluminum are more expensive due to the specialized equipment and skill requirements required for their production. Thicker or higher-grade metals also increase labor and supply costs.

Consumables, such as welding rods, wire, and shielding gas, are added to your total. Some welders include these in their estimates, while others charge separately. If materials aren’t already on site, sourcing and delivery fees can also apply.

Labor

Labor is often the largest component of welding costs. Certified welders and specialists command higher hourly rates, especially for complex or code-required jobs. Average hourly rates range from $50 to $125, with urban areas and high-demand regions at the upper end.

General contractors may subcontract welding, adding a markup to their costs. Mobile welders often charge travel or setup fees, while minimum charges apply to short jobs. Union welders or those with advanced certifications may cost more but bring added reliability.

Labor costs are calculated based on project type, complexity, and location. For example, simple repairs may take one hour, while large fabrications require multiple site visits.

Prep

Before welding begins, the area must be prepped. This can include cleaning, degreasing, and removing old paint or rust. You may also need to move or protect nearby furniture or landscaping. Some welders charge equipment setup or mobilization fees, especially for large or remote jobs.

Safety measures—such as fire blankets, ventilation, and compliance with local codes—add time and expense. Prep work is essential for strong, safe welds and can take anywhere from thirty minutes to several hours, depending on the project.

Tipping

Tipping welders is not required, but it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation for excellent work. For small jobs, a tip of $10 to $20 is customary, while larger or more complex projects may warrant a larger tip (5% to 10% of the labor cost). If tipping isn’t appropriate, positive reviews or referrals are always appreciated.

Additional Cost Factors

Several extra factors can impact how much welding costs:

• Demolition or removal of old metal before new welding

• Cleanup and debris disposal fees after the job

• Permit and inspection fees for structural or exterior work

• Foundation or framing prep prior to welding

• Finishing costs like grinding, sanding, painting, or sealing

• Integration with home systems like plumbing, HVAC, or electrical

• Decorative or ornamental welding for custom finishes

• Accessibility issues, such as overhead or confined spaces

• Rush job or after-hours surcharges

• Travel fees for remote or difficult-to-reach locations

These add-ons can increase your total investment, so discuss all project details with your welder beforehand.

Welding Ongoing Costs

Welding doesn’t end when the sparks stop flying. Let’s look at what it takes to keep welded structures safe and in good condition.

Maintenance

Routine inspections help catch early signs of wear, corrosion, or stress in welded joints. Cleaning and applying corrosion inhibitors or paint protects your investment, especially outdoors. Expect to pay $50 to $200 per inspection, plus $20 to $100 for cleaning and recoating. Maintenance is often needed annually or after severe weather.

Repairs

Even the best welds can crack or corrode over time. Common repairs include filling cracks, replacing broken sections, or addressing rust. Repairs for gates or railings cost $100 to $400, while automotive or machinery repairs can run $200 to $600. Emergency or after-hours service may incur an additional charge of $50 to $150 on your bill. The more extensive the damage, the higher the repair cost.

Preventive repairs—like sealing small cracks—are far less expensive than major restorations, so regular checks pay off.

Insurance

Some welding projects, particularly those involving structural or commercial applications, require specialized insurance. Homeowners may need to notify their insurer if major welding work is done, particularly for structural changes. 

Insuring welded structures or equipment costs between $50 and $200 per year, depending on the value and associated risk. Professional welders carry liability insurance, which is factored into their rates. Always verify coverage to protect against accidents or defects.

DIY Welding vs. Hiring a Pro

If you’re handy, you might consider DIY welding to save money. Let’s break down the real costs and risks.

DIY welding requires equipment—basic MIG, TIG, or stick welders cost $200 to $1,000 to buy or $50 to $100 per day to rent. You’ll need materials (rods, wire, and gas) for $20 to $100 per project, plus safety gear such as gloves, a helmet, and fire-resistant clothing (an additional $75 to $200).

DIY welding also demands skill, safety training, and knowledge of local codes. Learning to weld safely takes time and practice. Mistakes can result in weak joints, safety hazards, or failed inspections.

In many cases, hiring a professional is safer and more cost-effective, especially for structural or visible work. Pros bring experience, insurance, and the right tools, ensuring quality and compliance. DIY makes sense for small, non-structural projects if you already have the skills and equipment. For anything critical or complex, we recommend calling a professional local handyman or welder.

Cost of Common Welding Add-Ons

Many welding projects include optional features or services. Here’s what you can expect to pay for popular add-ons:

• Custom metal fabrication (gates, railings, furniture): $400 to $2,500

• Decorative or ornamental welding: $200 to $1,200, depending on complexity

• Mobile welding service fees: $50 to $200 per visit

• Rust-proofing or protective coatings: $50 to $300 per project

• Structural reinforcement or retrofitting: $300 to $1,500

• Emergency or rush service charges: $100 to $400 extra

• Additional finishing (grinding, polishing, painting): $50 to $350

• Integration with home systems (plumbing, HVAC, electrical): $150 to $800

• Accessibility modifications (ramps, handrails): $200 to $1,000

• On-site consultation or design services: $75 to $250

Discuss these options with your welder to prioritize what matters most for your project and budget.

Tips to Reduce Welding Costs

Welding doesn’t have to break the bank. Use these tips to manage costs while getting the quality you need:

• Get multiple quotes from local welders to compare pricing.

• Schedule welding projects during off-peak times to avoid rush fees.

• Prepare the work area yourself to reduce labor charges.

• Use standard materials instead of custom or specialty metals.

• Bundle multiple welding tasks into one service call.

• Opt for mobile welding services to save on transportation.

• Regularly maintain welded items to prevent costly repairs.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.