Your Essential Checklist
Whether you’re renovating a commercial space or building your dream home, architectural metalwork can make a world of difference. From staircases and railings to cladding, there are so many places where it can be used within a property.
No matter the scale or complexity of your project, to get the best results, you should always work with a specialist in architectural metalwork London property owners trust. Here are some questions to ask to be sure that you are choosing the right team for the job:
What Experience Do You Have with Similar Projects?
Not all metalwork fabricators work across the same types of projects. Some specialise in commercial properties, while some might have experience with heritage restorations. Asking about previous experience helps you determine whether they understand the specific requirements of your job and will be able to meet your needs. If you find a team with varied experience, they will be likely to deliver great results.
Can You Help Me with the Design?
Some clients come to their metalwork specialists with detailed drawings and a clear vision in mind, while others only have a rough idea and not much else! Either way, a good fabricator should be able to give you all the assistance you need in bringing your vision to life. Ask them about their design team and how they work, and how much support they are going to be able to offer you during this crucial stage.
What’s Your Lead Time and Capacity?
Fabrication takes time, especially for bespoke or large-scale projects that demand custom solutions or large order volumes. Make sure to ask your chosen provider what their current lead time is, and if they have the capacity to take on your project right now. It’s just about them being able to take it on either – can they meet your deadlines too? Delays with your metalwork can hold up other parts of your project, so it is much better to have clarity at this early stage than a nasty surprise later on.
Can You Provide References or Testimonials?
A solid reputation speaks volumes and is by far the hardest thing for a trader to build up over the years. So, a great fabricator will be only too pleased to talk about their good standing with you! Ask them for references from recent clients, along with photos of their completed projects. You can also seek this out yourself, but it might be a good idea to ask them to point you in the direction of where you can find any online reviews hosted externally. Caginess with this could be a red flag.
How Do You Handle Budget and Pricing?
Everyone knows that architectural metalwork is a big investment for any project, but no one wants to be hit with unexpected costs as the project draws on. Ask for a detailed, written quote and ask them what is included in the final price. Is it inclusive of design, materials, and installation? Ask them about anything that could potentially affect the price, too. Make sure that you are clear in regard to their payment terms and scheduling as well, especially if you plan to pay in instalments.
You’re All Set
Choosing the right metalwork fabricator is vital for your project, so make sure that you discuss all of the above before you proceed!