Metal Fabrication FAQs
Looking for clear answers about custom metal fabrication in Victoria, BC?
This FAQ covers the essentials homeowners, builders, and strata managers ask us every week—driveway and pedestrian gates, metal railings, custom staircases (indoor/outdoor), structural steel, and architectural metalwork.
You’ll find straightforward guidance on cost ranges, lead times, shop drawings and engineering, finishes that stand up to coastal weather, and what to expect on installation day. We serve Victoria, Southern Vancouver Island, and the Gulf Islands, delivering precision metalwork built to code and built to last.
We’re a craftsman-led, CWB-qualified shop that handles the full process—site measure → design & shop drawings → engineering where required → fabrication → galvanizing/powder coat → install.
Use this page to plan your project, avoid surprises, and choose the right materials and finish for your environment (yes, we talk galvanizing vs. stainless 316).
When you’re ready, send a photo and rough dimensions for a fixed quote—we’ll size, design, and install your metalwork on schedule.
VFab - Nanaimo
Gates (Driveway & Pedestrian)
How much do custom metal driveway gates cost in Victoria, BC?
Most projects land $3,000–$20,000+ installed, depending on width, material (steel/aluminum/stainless), infill style, finish, and automation. Send a photo + opening width for a fixed quote.
What’s the lead time for electric driveway gates on Southern Vancouver Island?
Typical 4–8 weeks including design, fabrication, galvanizing/powder coat, and automation setup. Add time for concrete pads, power trenching, and ferry logistics for Gulf Islands.
Swing vs. sliding driveway gate—what’s best for my Victoria property?
Swing fits most driveways with clear swing arc; slide suits sloped/short aprons or tight spaces. We check grade, snow/leaf load, and vehicle turning to recommend hardware and posts.
Can you automate and integrate access control for metal gates?
Yes—swing/slide operators, safety edges, photo-eyes, keypads, remotes, app access, and vehicle sensors. We coordinate electrical, concrete, and network for a clean install.
What maintenance do powder-coated steel gates need near the coast?
Rinse seasonally, lube hinges/rollers, and touch up chips promptly. Coastal sites benefit from galvanize + powder or stainless/aluminum to resist salt air.
Railings (Guardrails & Handrails)
Do custom metal railings meet BC Building Code requirements in Victoria, BC?
Yes—heights, loadings, and picket spacing are designed to code; engineer review provided where required. We supply shop drawings for permit and inspection.
How much do interior and exterior metal railings cost per foot in Victoria?
Most projects run $150–$350/ft installed, driven by material, infill (pickets, glass, panels), finish, and site access. We quote line-by-line so you can adjust scope.
Picket vs. glass vs. panel infill—what’s best for wind and corrosion?
Pickets are most durable/low-maintenance; glass maximizes views but needs cleaning and engineered clamps; perforated/mesh panels give privacy and airflow. We match to exposure and style.
Can you retrofit new metal railings to existing decks or stairs?
Usually yes after assessing structure and posts/anchorage. We add plates or new blocking and provide engineer-approved anchors where needed.
What finishes work for strata and commercial railings on Vancouver Island?
Exterior steel: hot-dip galvanizing + powder coat. Aluminum: powder coat over marine-grade alloy. Stainless 316 for high-salt locations. Colour-match to strata palette.
Stairs (Interior & Exterior)
How much do custom metal stairs cost in Victoria, BC?
Mono-stringers typically $12,000–$35,000+, multi-flight or exterior stairs vary with landings, treads, and finishes. Price includes design, fabrication, coatings, and install.
What styles of custom metal staircases do you build (indoor/outdoor)?
Mono-stringer, twin-stringer, spiral, commercial egress, and architectural feature stairs. Treads: wood, steel plate, grating, or glass; railings to suit.
Do metal stair stringers require engineering in BC?
Yes for code-critical geometry and loads. We provide engineer-stamped drawings, shop drawings, and install details for permit.
Are exterior steel stairs durable in Victoria’s coastal climate?
Yes with the right system: galvanize + powder coat or stainless/aluminum. We design for drainage, anti-slip treads, and serviceable bolted connections.
What is the typical timeline to design and install a custom staircase?
Allow 6–10+ weeks: measure → design/engineering → fabrication → finish → install. Site readiness (framing complete) keeps schedules tight.
Structural (Beams, Posts, Misc. Metals)
Do you supply and install structural steel for residential/commercial projects in Victoria, BC?
Yes—beams, lintels, posts, moment frames, stair stringers, embeds, and hardware. We handle shop drawings, fabrication, coatings, delivery, and field install.
What documents do you need to quote structural steel packages?
Latest architectural/structural drawings, connection details, connection schedule, finish spec, and site constraints (crane access, ferry schedules for islands).
Are your welders certified for structural work (CWB/AWS)?
Yes—welds performed under CWB company certification with qualified personnel to approved WPS; AWS procedures available when specified.
Can you field-measure and coordinate with other trades on tight renovations?
Yes—laser measure, as-built adjustments, coordination with framers/electricians/HVAC, and shop-to-site fit-up to minimize downtime.
What coatings are recommended for structural steel in exposed locations?
Hot-dip galvanizing for exterior or damp locations; shop primer or zinc-rich systems for interior; powder coat when architectural exposure matters.
Finishes (Coatings & Materials)
Galvanizing vs. powder coating—what’s best for metalwork in Victoria, BC?
Best practice for steel outdoors: galvanize + powder coat (zinc base + colour topcoat). Aluminum gets powder coat; stainless can stay brushed/satin.
Should I choose stainless steel 316 near the ocean on Vancouver Island?
Yes—316 resists chloride attack better than 304; ideal for waterfront or heavy salt-spray areas. We’ll confirm grade, finish, and fasteners to match.
How long do powder-coated finishes last in coastal climates?
With proper prep and thickness, 10–20 years is typical before major refinishing. Rinse seasonally and touch up chips to extend life.
Can you colour-match powder coat to my home or strata colours?
Yes—RAL/Custom colours available; we provide swatches and specify gloss/sheen to suit architecture.
What anti-slip options exist for exterior stairs and landings?
Serrated grating, textured plate, nosing inserts, and anti-slip tapes. We choose options that survive rain, algae, and freeze-thaw.
Process (Design • Engineering • Install • Warranty)
What is your end-to-end process for custom metal fabrication in Victoria, BC?
Site measure → design & shop drawings → fixed quote → engineering (as required) → fabrication → finish → installation → final walkthrough with care guide.
Do you provide shop drawings and 3D renderings before fabrication?
Yes—detailed shop drawings with materials, welds, anchors, and finishes; 3D/renderings available for complex/architectural pieces.
Do you handle permits and inspections for stairs, railings, and gates?
We provide engineer-stamped drawings and documentation; you or your GC submit for permit. We attend inspections as needed.
What warranties do you offer on fabrication, finishes, and automation?
Workmanship warranty on fabrication/install; finish warranty per coating system; gate operators per manufacturer. We include written terms in your quote.
How do I get a fast, accurate quote for custom metalwork in Victoria, BC?
Send photos, rough dimensions, preferred style, and address. For structural, include drawings. We return a fixed quote with options and lead time. Contact us for our email address.