Do you have a custom metal fabrication project you need completed? Have you decided on the material you want to use? Are you looking into the costs of custom metal fabrication? We know you have a lot of questions that you need answered and we may be able to help at P&D Metal Works. When you order custom metalwork for your home or business, the fit and finish is important and when you choose custom metal fabrication, you will have options. You may be asking – what are the finishing options for metal fabrication? We have your answers right here at P&D Metal Works in Neenah, WI.
What Are the Different Types of Custom Metal Fabrication Finishes?
Finishing is an important part of the custom metal fabrication process. It is the final piece of the puzzle before custom metalwork is shipped to its final destination and it will protect products from rust, corrosion, and tarnishing. When you order custom metalwork, you will have a few finish options to choose from. P&D Metal Works employs a powder coat finish on many projects – light fixtures and decorative signs – to protect the metal and create a rustic, custom style that many people love.
Powder Coating
A powder coat is a metal finish that is more durable than paint and involves a plastic powder that is applied to the surface of the metal with high heat and it is available in a variety of colors and textures. An estimated 15% of metal components are finished using powder coating.
Brushed Metal
A brushed metal finish creates a matte finish created by a mechanical process that employs abrasive material to brush the metal and hide any imperfections on the surface of the material.
Polishing
Decorative metalwork can be amplified by a polished finish that uses an abrasive process to smooth the metal material, enhance the natural properties of the steel, and create a shiny metal finish.
Anodizing
Anodized metal employs a chemical process to apply aluminum oxide to the surface of the material and create an aluminum oxide layer that will resist corrosion and abrasion. The finish is cost-effective and does not require much maintenance.
Galvanizing
When galvanized, metalwork is treated with a layer of Zinc that will protect the surface of the metal from damage and corrosion. The Zinc coating applied when metal is galvanized is built to last and is affordable.
Metal Plating
Metal plating is when a thin layer of metal material is added to the product to give it a different appearance, prevent corrosion, and reduce friction with other materials. Metal plating can use copper, nickel, chromium, aluminum, gold, platinum, or silver.
How To Choose the Right Metal Finish
The type of metal finish that you choose depends on your project and different projects and purposes will require different types of finishes. Powder coating, anodizing, and galvanizing will protect the surface of the material and prevent corrosion, which is important for many industries and projects. Metalwork that is more decorative may employ a brushed metal, polished metal, or plated finish.
Here are a few questions you may want to consider when you choose a metal finish for your project:
- How will the finished product be used?
- Which finish is the most cost effective?
- How long will the project take to finish?
- Does the finish fit the materials you want to use?
READ MORE: How To Choose the Right Metal for My Custom Metal Fabrication
You may be asking – what are the finishing options for custom metal fabrication? We may be able to help you find the perfect way to finish your custom metal project with this overview created by P&D Metal Works in Neenah, WI. Contact P&D Metal Works today for more information on our products and services!
