Metalworking, or metal fabrication, is the process of making items out of different metals. Metal fabricators shape, cut, and mold raw materials into different products, including:

• Car parts
• HVAC components
• Pipes and fittings
• Cutlery
• Tools
• Keys
• Furniture
• Wires and cables
• Bolts, nuts, or screws

There is some overlap between metal fabrication and welding because they both involve using heat to work with metal. However, metal fabrication uses multiple methods to create metal products. Welding is just one part or skill used in metal fabrication.

Different shops and professionals have different specialties, but most fabricators can worth with:

• Stainless steel
• Aluminum
• Iron
• Copper
• Brass
• Bronze

Sheet metal is a thin, flat piece of metal that is less than 6 millimeters or 1/4 inch thick. If the metal is more than 6 millimeters thick, it is considered plate metal.

Sheet metal is used to make a variety of products, including car bodies, farming tools, airplanes, aluminium cans, roofing, and appliances. 

Start by searching our list of metalwork contractors, then:

• Get at least three free estimates to compare.
• Examine reviews and previous work on HomeGuide and Google.
• Choose a company that is licensed, bonded, and experienced.
• Look for someone with a certification from a reputable source such as the Fabricators and Manufacturers Association (FMA).
• Get a written estimate, contract, and warranty before work begins.
• Follow a payment schedule and never make large payments up front.

After asking questions and verifying credentials, hire the best metal fabricating company in your area.

When looking for metalwork companies near you, consider the following questions:

• How long have you been in business?
• Are you licensed, insured, and bonded?
• What metalworking certifications do you have?
• What metals do you work with most often?
• How long will my project take?
• Do you offer a warranty for your work?
• Will you give me an estimate and contract in writing?