Licensed Welding & Steel in Vancouver, WA

For structural work, look for AWS (American Welding Society) D1.1 certification for structural steel or D1.3 for light-gauge steel. For pipe work, look for ASME Section IX certification. Certified welders have passed performance tests proving they can produce sound welds in specific positions and on specific materials.

MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welding is faster and easier to learn, making it common for structural steel and fabrication. TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding produces cleaner, more precise welds and is preferred for thin materials, stainless steel, aluminum, and ornamental work where weld appearance matters. Each process has specific advantages.

Simple projects like railings and gates typically take 2 to 4 weeks from measurement to installation. Complex structural work or ornamental pieces can take 4 to 12 weeks depending on design complexity, material availability, and finishing requirements. Custom architectural metalwork for commercial projects may take several months.

Yes, carbon steel must be protected from corrosion. Options include paint systems (primer plus topcoat), powder coating (factory-applied durable finish), hot-dip galvanizing (zinc coating for outdoor exposure), and weathering steel (Corten) that develops a protective rust patina. Interior structural steel may use intumescent coatings for fire protection.

Structural steel offers greater span capability, resistance to termites and rot, dimensional stability, fire resistance, and design flexibility. Wood framing is typically less expensive for residential construction and easier to modify. Many projects use both: steel for large spans and heavy loads, wood for partition walls and residential framing.