"What a great experience it was to work with Chip and Dale Ironworks. I wanted a custom gate that reflected where I live. Randy was my first contact. He listened to my request and came up with a design I love.
Once I made a decision, then it took a week to make and a day to install. I appreciate the high quality work that went into fabrication, parts used, and the installation of this gate. The next day, Jim ran the needed tests, checked the operation of the system, and explained how to operate the gate including any challenges that might arise.
I am receiving many compliments for this gate from my neighbors and passerby’s. The operation is super quiet and smooth.
I appreciate the talent and knowledge that went into the making of this gate and the fact that I received a custom gate for a fraction of the estimated costs other companies quoted for a plain gate. This company takes pride in their workmanship and it shows!"
"Working with Alex was a fantastic experience from start to finish. He was responsive in communication, understood our modification needs, and delivered precise measurements and a high-quality finished product. We would definitely turn to him again for any future fabrications or welding. Highly recommended! Thank you, Alex!"
"Excellent experience with Braden from Black Bear Fabrication. We needed a window well grate modified for a new vent hood, so the grate would fit back in place. He was quick to respond, great communication prior to beginning the job. On the day he arrived exactly on time and ready to go. He was completely prepared, took a few measurements, and got to work. His workmanship is outstanding, he did a PERFECT job for us. I will recommend him to anyone that needs mobile welding and fabrication. He is a gentleman, and a high-level craftsman. Thank you Braden!"
"I got exactly the help I needed at a good price, for a very specific cast iron project, an antique metal cast iron bed frame that needed correction to some bent, warped castings."
"Nancy here just want to say that this company is very professional thanks to Jacob and Nathan and Albert thanks for all your help guys we got are hole roof redone thanks again guys"
"After years of experiencing contractors with inferior work habits, we were so grateful to Grady and his crew for exceptional labor practices and pride in the project from start to finish. We would not hesitate to call Grady for future projects. We are truly satisfied customers."
"From introduction to completion, Reggie was very professional, informative, timely, and he installed a top quality fence and gates for our yard and our neighbor. We received 5 quotes and he was the only one to bring photos to our initial meeting. His quote was in-line with others but what made us decide on his company was his photos, excellent reviews and professionalism. His option of overlapped boards was appreciated and the cost wasn't much more. We highly recommend RL Quality Construction!"
Choosing the right metal fabricator for your project begins with research. Find a reputable fabrication company by searching for reputable contractors in your area, and then reviewing photos of their previous work, customer reviews, and photos of the company’s workshop.
Once you’ve narrowed down the list, contact the companies to ask about the types of metal fabrication projects they specialize and inquire about guarantees and warranties on workmanship. You should also ensure the company uses high-quality material, and ask about the schedule and turnaround time for your proposed project.
This all depends on the tools you have on hand and whether you’re trying to cut a straight line or shapes.
The best tool to use for straight lines is either a circular saw or table saw. When cutting shapes, a jigsaw will be the easiest and most precise tool to use.
Since water heaters are primarily made of metal, they’re commonly accepted by scrap yards and collectors. Don’t expect to fetch a high price, though—water heaters are mostly steel and aluminum, which aren’t high-value metals. Some components are made of more valuable metals, like brass and copper, but they’re a small portion of the heater and won’t affect the price much.
Welding is the process of using extreme heat—and, sometimes, pressure—to attach two pieces of metal. In contrast, metal fabrication is a more involved process that can include welding, sheet metal work, bending, and other forms of metal manipulation. Metal fabrication is a large-scale project that may or may not involve welding, while welding is more often a step in larger fabrication projects.
You should not do your own welding unless you have the proper training and experience. Most home electrical systems can only handle MIG welding, which creates weaker bonds than TIG welding and won’t work on certain metals or metal thicknesses. Both welding forms usually require the use of shielding gas, which can be dangerous to store at home. Additionally, welding machines create temperatures of over 3,000 degrees, and the sparks can blind you if you don’t have the proper equipment. As such, it’s usually better to hire a professional welder for your welding projects.
The Yamhill, OR homeowners’ guide to welding services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
When you need help with a metal project and don’t have the expertise or the time, call an expert welder for your project. Here’s how to vet and hire a welder.
