When a project requires a duct system to be built and installed, you need to hire an expert. Failing to hire someone who fully understands what’s needed could result in disaster.
A metal fabricator is the kind of expert you’re looking for.
Metal fabricators work with different types of metal to construct machines or structures. Since their trade is specifically built around working with metal, a fabricator is the best choice for your ductwork.
But what is ductwork, and how does it work? Why should you invest in a qualified metal fabricator for your project? Continue reading to learn the answers to these questions and more.
What Is Ductwork?
“Ductwork” can mean many different things. A “duct” is defined as any tube or pipe that conducts or conveys air, fluids, or another substance.
HVAC is one of the most common industries where ductwork is used. In this industry, ductwork generally refers to the duct systems that heat, cool, or ventilate a home or commercial building. Ensuring these ducts are of the highest quality is of the utmost importance, as discussed more in-depth below.
How Do Metal Fabricators Create Ductwork?
There’s a complex step-by-step system to how metal fabricators create ductwork. It all begins with cutting the sheet metal to size specifications. The exact size of the pieces of sheet metal are cut will depend on the project.
Once the sheet metal is cut, it’s burned together to create shapes. Typically, these shapes will be square or circular if the project is for HVAC systems. Sometimes, these shapes will be customized to fit the client’s needs.
Once the metal has been burned or welded together, it’s sandblasted to smooth it out. This gets rid of any sharp edges or stray pieces of metal that could be hazardous.
Once it’s in the appropriate shape and smoothed out, the metal is primed and painted. Sometimes, it’s unnecessary to paint the ductwork. If further customization is necessary, it will be done after this.
To do their job, metal fabricators use a wide range of tools. Besides various welding tools, they may also use band saws and hydraulic breaks.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Fabricator for Your Ductwork?
There are many benefits to using a metal fabricator for your ductwork project. These advantages are discussed below.
Air Ducts Won’t Leak
Using a metal fabricator ensures your air ducts won’t leak. Tight seals are necessary to ensure air or fluids don’t leak out of your system. These airtight, watertight seals are created through a welding process that creates a single, solid piece of metal.
Saves You Money
Quality ductwork saves you money in two different ways. When the job is done correctly, it reduces the need for repairs or revisions later. It can also save money on utilities by ensuring no heating or cooling costs are lost.
Ensures Good Air Quality
Quality ductwork ensures good air quality. It does this by stopping any outside contaminants from entering into the air or liquid flowing through the duct system. If pollutants make their way into the air supply, it can have mild to severe consequences for anyone inside the building.
Adhere to Energy Star Standards
A great metal fabricator can create ductwork that will adhere to Energy Star standards. This is important both in terms of environmental effects and cost savings.
How Can You Find the Best Metal Fabricator for Your Job?
It’s essential to choose the best metal fabricator for your ductwork job. Hiring unprofessional or shady contractors for your next project can prove to be a disaster. Once you’ve determined a potential hire works in the location you need, you can use the following information to make sure they’re a good fit.
Referrals
One of the best (and easiest) ways to find quality contractors near you is to get referrals. This can be done in three ways.
First, you could ask for word-of-mouth referrals. These come from people you know in person. You may want to ask friends, family members, coworkers, or neighbors for their recommendations.
Second, you could look at online review sites. These websites allow clients to leave reviews of companies or contractors they’ve previously used.
If a company has mostly positive ratings, you can feel confident in hiring them for your next project. If the contractor has mostly negative ratings, this should be a red flag you should avoid using their services.
If you have a specific metal fabricator in mind, you can use the third option. Ask the contractor you’d like to hire if they have any referrals from previous customers. Most professionals should have at least a few references to offer you.
Certifications
Always double-check a metal fabricator’s certifications. Ask what training they’ve undergone and whether they’re appropriately licensed to work in your state. It doesn’t hurt to cross-reference the company with the Better Business Bureau to be sure.
Conversations
If you have a metal fabricator in mind for your next project, calling them up or visiting them in person can tell you a lot. You want someone who is going to actively listen to what your project requires and who has a solid understanding of their trade.
When having a conversation with someone you may potentially hire, it’s essential to go with your gut. If something feels off, don’t feel bad about looking into your other options.
Do You Have More Questions About Using Metal Fabricators for Your Ductwork Project?
There are many reasons you should use metal fabricators for your next ductwork project. The benefits of doing so are detailed above.
Do you still have questions about using metal fabricators for your ductwork project? Or, do you want to discuss hiring a fabricator?
If so, contact us today. One of our associates would be happy to answer any questions you still have. They can also set you up a consultation if desired.
