Category: Insights

When designing a new home or renovating a commercial space in Toronto, the staircase is often the most significant structural and aesthetic investment. While wood has been the traditional choice for decades, custom metal staircases have taken the lead in modern architecture.

Metal and wood staircases suit different design, budget and maintenance priorities. This comparison explains practical trade-offs for a GTA project rather than assuming one material is best in every building.

1. Structural Strength and Slim Profiles

The primary advantage of metal (specifically structural steel) is its high strength-to-weight ratio.

• The “Floating” Look: To achieve a “floating” or mono-stringer design with wood, the supporting beams would have to be massive and bulky. Steel allows for a single, slim spine that supports the entire structure.

• Long Spans: Metal can span much larger distances without the need for unsightly support posts, giving you more usable floor space underneath the stairs.

2. Extreme Durability: No Squeaks, No Warps

One of the most common complaints about wood stairs in the Ontario climate is the “seasonal shift.”

• Dimensional behaviour: Steel does not undergo timber moisture shrinkage, but thermal expansion, connection movement and structural deflection still need to be considered.

• Longevity: A steel staircase is a “lifetime” product. It won’t rot, it won’t be damaged by pests (termites), and it can withstand heavy foot traffic in commercial settings without showing wear.

3. Unmatched Design Versatility

Metal is a highly “plastic” medium in the hands of a skilled fabricator.

• Custom Shapes: From tight spirals to sweeping curved grand staircases, metal can be bent and welded into shapes that are nearly impossible or prohibitively expensive to create with wood.

• Modern Aesthetics: Steel pairs perfectly with other high-end materials like glass, cable railings, and stone. Whether you want a raw industrial look or a polished contemporary finish, metal provides the perfect canvas.

4. Fire Safety and Building Code Compliance

In commercial and multi-unit residential buildings in Ontario, fire safety is non-negotiable.

• Non-Combustible: Unlike wood, steel does not contribute fuel to a fire. It is the safest material for emergency egress and fire escapes.

• Compliance: Geometry, loading, guards, connections and installation must be assessed against the applicable design and code requirements. No material alone guarantees inspection approval.

5. Cost-Effectiveness Over Time

While the initial investment in a custom metal staircase may be higher than a basic builder-grade wood stair, the Total Cost of Ownership is lower:

1. Maintenance: Inspect connections, treads, coatings and any signs of corrosion or damage; maintenance needs depend on exposure and the complete stair assembly.
2. Installation: Prefabrication can reduce site work, but access, lifting, fit-up and connections determine the actual programme.

3. Resale Value: A custom steel staircase is a “wow” factor that significantly boosts a property’s market value.

Metal vs. Wood: Quick Comparison

Investing in Your Home’s Future

A staircase is the heart of your building’s circulation. By choosing metal, you are investing in a structure that is safer, stronger, and more beautiful than any wooden alternative. At Weld Rich & Steel, we specialize in turning structural requirements into architectural masterpieces.

Applicable workplace safety legislation, the Ontario Building Code and the project design influence industrial stair requirements. Confirm which provisions apply to the installation.

Industrial steel stairs should be designed for their loads, access and operating environment, with suitable treads, guards, connections and a maintenance plan.

1. Structural Integrity Under Heavy Loads

Industrial settings often involve workers carrying heavy equipment or moving between mezzanine levels.

• Structural design: The responsible designer determines the required loads, geometry and connections; fabrication should follow that approved information.
• Weld quality: Use qualified personnel and procedures with the inspection specified for the project. Certification alone does not guarantee freedom from fatigue or future damage.

2. Safety First: Non-Slip and High-Visibility

Safety is the primary concern for any plant manager. We incorporate specific features to minimize the risk of slips and falls:

• Grip Strut Treads: For areas prone to oil, water, or debris, we use serrated diamond-pattern treads. These allow liquids to pass through while providing aggressive traction.

• Safety Yellow Finishes: We offer high-visibility powder coating or safety-yellow nosing on treads to ensure steps are clearly visible in low-light warehouse conditions.

• Ergonomic Handrails: Our safety railings are fabricated to the exact diameter required for a secure grip, with smooth, continuous transitions that prevent snagging.

3. Corrosion Resistance for Harsh Environments

Many industrial stairs are exposed to moisture, chemicals, or the outdoor Ontario climate.

• Corrosion protection: Specify the coating or galvanizing system for the exposure, with inspection and maintenance requirements.

• Powder Coating: For indoor facilities, powder coating provides a durable, chip-resistant finish that withstands the bumps and scrapes of daily industrial life.

4. Modular vs. Custom Fabrication

We understand that downtime costs money.

• Installation duration: Access, stair size, lifting, connections, temporary protection and operational constraints determine the installation schedule.

• Mezzanine Integration: We can custom-fabricate stairs to integrate perfectly with your existing mezzanine levels, platforms, or catwalks, ensuring seamless transitions.

5. Compliance with Ontario Safety Standards (OHSA)

A non-compliant staircase is a massive legal liability. We ensure every design meets:

• Correct Rise and Run ratios to prevent fatigue and tripping.

• Specific Handrail Heights and guardrail spacing.

• Clearance Requirements for emergency egress routes.

Built to Work, Built to Last

Industrial stairs are an investment in your facility’s efficiency and your employees’ safety. At Weld Rich & Steel, we bring decades of experience to every industrial project, from simple warehouse access to complex multi-level fire escapes.

In the world of metal fabrication, the job isn’t finished until the surface is protected. Metal finishing serves two critical purposes: it creates the visual “look” that architects and homeowners desire, and it provides a chemical or physical barrier against corrosion.

At Weld Rich & Steel, we treat finishing as both a science and an art. Whether you are looking for a sleek mirror polish for a lobby or a rugged industrial coating for a fire escape, choosing the right technique is essential.

1. Powder Coating: The Modern Standard

Powder coating is the most popular finish for custom staircases and interior railings in Ontario. Unlike traditional liquid paint, it is applied as a dry powder and then cured under heat to form a hard, “plastic” skin.

• Durability: Extremely resistant to chipping, scratching, and fading.

• Aesthetics: Available in thousands of colors and textures, from Sandtex Black (a popular matte, grainy finish) to high-gloss metallics.

• Eco-Friendly: Contains no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and produces almost zero waste.

2. Hot-Dip Galvanizing: The “Ultimate” Protection

For exterior structural steel in the GTA, nothing beats galvanizing. The steel is submerged in molten zinc, creating a metallurgical bond.

• The Benefit: If the surface is scratched, the surrounding zinc “sacrifices” itself to protect the exposed steel from rust.

• Service life: Coating thickness, exposure, detailing and maintenance determine durability. Obtain guidance for the actual application from the galvanizer or coating supplier.

• Look: It has a rugged, industrial grey “spangled” appearance. It can also be painted over (a process called “Duplex coating”) for both color and maximum protection.

3. Professional Polishing: The Luxury Finish

For stainless steel and aluminum, polishing is often the preferred method to highlight the natural beauty of the alloy.

• #4 Brushed Finish: The most common “satin” look, ideal for handrails and kitchen equipment. It hides fingerprints and minor scratches well.

• #8 Mirror Polish: A reflective, chrome-like finish used for high-end architectural accents.

• Technique Matters: Achieving a consistent polish across welds requires high-level craftsmanship to ensure the joints are invisible.

4. Priming and Industrial Painting

While less durable than powder coating, professional priming and painting are still used for large structural beams that will be hidden behind drywall.

• Shop Primer: A red or grey oxide coating that prevents rust during the construction phase.

• Field Painting: Often used for massive structures where transport would damage a more delicate finish.

5. Maintenance Tips: Extending the Lifespan

Even the best finish needs a little care to survive Toronto’s salt and humidity.

• Regular Cleaning: For exterior stainless steel and powder-coated railings, a simple wash with mild soap and water twice a year removes corrosive salt deposits.

• Inspect the Joints: Rust often starts at the joints or bolt holes. Check these areas annually for any signs of “bleeding” rust.

• Touch-ups: If a powder-coated surface is deeply gouged to the bare metal, it should be touched up with a matching zinc-rich paint immediately to prevent oxidation from spreading under the coating.

Summary: Which Finish is Right for You?

Conclusion: Beauty That Lasts

A custom-fabricated piece is only as good as its finish. At Weld Rich & Steel, we help you choose a solution that fits your budget, your style, and the environmental demands of your project.

Exterior architectural metalwork in the Greater Toronto Area faces one of the harshest environments in North America. Between the humid summers, sub-zero winters, and the heavy use of de-icing salts on our roads, standard carbon steel can begin to show signs of structural rust within just a few seasons if not properly specified.

At Weld Rich & Steel, we believe that longevity starts at the design phase. Choosing the right corrosion-resistant alloy or treatment is essential for safety, aesthetics, and reducing long-term maintenance costs.

1. Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel: The Industrial Standard

While not technically an alloy, galvanized steel is the most cost-effective solution for exterior structural elements like fire escapes, lintels, and parking garage supports.

• The Process: Carbon steel is submerged in a bath of molten zinc at approximately 450°C. This creates a metallurgical bond that protects the steel even if the surface is scratched.

• Service life: Zinc coating thickness, exposure, detailing and maintenance determine durability. Obtain project-specific guidance from the galvanizer rather than assuming a universal maintenance-free life.

• Best for: Fire escapes, exterior staircases, and hidden structural beams.

2. Stainless Steel (Grades 304 and 316)

When aesthetics are as important as durability, stainless steel is the premier choice for modern architecture.

• Grade 304: Excellent for most outdoor applications. It contains chromium and nickel, which provide a high level of rust resistance.

• Grade 316: Consider where chloride exposure is significant, subject to the actual environment and design requirements. It is not a universal requirement for all Ontario exterior metalwork.

• Best for: Handrails, glass guardrail standoffs, and visible architectural features.

3. Weathering Steel (Corten)

Weathering steel is a group of steel alloys developed to eliminate the need for painting. After a few months of exposure to the elements, it forms a stable, rust-like appearance.

• The “Patina” Effect: This outer layer of oxidation actually protects the interior steel from further corrosion.

• Aesthetic Appeal: It is highly popular among landscape architects in Toronto for its organic, earthy look.

• Best for: Decorative facades, outdoor sculptures, and retaining walls.

4. Aluminum Alloys (6061 and 5052)

Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant because it forms an instant aluminum oxide layer when exposed to air.

• Lightweight Strength: At roughly one-third the weight of steel, it is ideal for rooftop installations or decorative cladding where weight is a concern.

• Coating selection: Specify compatible preparation, pretreatment and coating systems for the alloy and exposure.

• Best for: Modern gates, privacy screens, and lightweight railings.

5. Why “Standard” Steel Fails in Exterior Use

Many contractors try to save money by using standard carbon steel with a simple coat of primer and paint. In the Ontario climate, this is a temporary fix.

1. Thermal Expansion: The constant freezing and thawing cycle causes paint to develop micro-cracks.

2. Moisture Trapping: Once water gets under the paint, it stays there, accelerating the “rot” from the inside out.

3. Salt exposure: Damaged coatings can accelerate local corrosion. Inspect vulnerable joints and repair coating damage using a compatible specified system.

Engineering for Permanence

At Weld Rich & Steel, we help our clients navigate these choices based on their budget and the expected lifespan of the project. Whether it’s a CWB-certified fire escape that needs the rugged protection of galvanizing or a luxury storefront requiring the polish of 316 stainless steel, we ensure your exterior architecture stands the test of time.

Sustainability requirements vary by project, procurement policy and certification target. Steel can support reuse and recycling strategies, but its environmental performance should be assessed using project-specific information.

Structural steel stands at the forefront of this green revolution. Often perceived as a heavy industrial material, steel is actually one of the most sustainable and “circular” building materials available today.

1. 100% Recyclability: A Circular Economy

Unlike concrete, which often ends up in landfills after demolition, steel is the most recycled material on the planet.

• Infinite Lifecycle: Steel can be melted down and repurposed infinitely without losing its structural integrity.

• Recycled content: Request the producer’s environmental product declaration or material information for the actual steel supply. Do not assume one recycled-content percentage applies to every product.

2. Reducing Construction Waste

Traditional construction sites often produce massive amounts of waste due to on-site cutting and errors. Metal fabrication changes that:

• Off-Site Precision: At our fabrication shop, we use advanced software to nest parts perfectly on a single sheet or beam, minimizing off-cuts.

• Site waste: Shop preparation can reduce site cutting and off-cuts, although material waste and transport impacts still need to be managed.

3. Speed of Construction and Energy Efficiency

Sustainability also relates to how efficiently a project is completed.

• Lower Carbon Footprint: Faster construction times mean fewer months of heavy machinery running on-site, lower fuel consumption, and less disruption to the local ecosystem.

• Integration with Insulation: Modern steel framing allows for the easy installation of high-performance “thermal break” insulation. This reduces the energy required to heat and cool buildings during Ontario’s extreme seasonal temperature swings.

4. Adaptability and Building Longevity

The greenest building is the one that doesn’t need to be torn down.

• Future-Proofing: Steel structures are uniquely adaptable. If a commercial building needs to be converted into residential lofts 20 years from now, steel beams can be reinforced or modified far more easily than reinforced concrete walls.

• Longevity: With proper finishes like hot-dip galvanizing, a steel structure can last over 100 years, drastically reducing the need for new raw materials in the future.

5. Contributing to LEED Certification

LEED and other rating systems: The contribution of steel depends on the applicable scheme, product documentation and whole-project assessment. Using steel alone does not guarantee certification or a financial incentive.

• Materials and Resources: Due to high recycled content and regional sourcing.

• Waste Management: Thanks to the precision of the fabrication process.

• Innovation in Design: By allowing for larger windows (maximizing natural light) through long-span steel beams.

Conclusion: Building for the Next Generation

Choosing structural steel is an investment in both your property and the environment. At Weld Rich & Steel, we take pride in being part of a sustainable supply chain that supports Ontario’s green building goals. By combining high-strength steel with precision fabrication, we help you build structures that are safe, durable, and ecologically responsible.

In structural steel fabrication, there is no “one-size-fits-all” welding method. The choice of process affects everything from the speed of construction to the structural integrity of the joint in extreme weather. At Weld Rich & Steel, our CWB-certified technicians are experts in several key welding processes, each selected based on the project’s specific engineering requirements.

Understanding these processes helps project managers and homeowners understand why a certain technique is chosen for their site or shop-fabricated components.

1. GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding) – Commonly Known as MIG

GMAW is the standard for high-speed, high-quality fabrication in a controlled shop environment. It uses a continuous solid wire electrode and a shielding gas (usually a mix of Argon and CO2) to protect the weld pool.

• Best for: Indoor shop fabrication of beams, custom staircases, and stainless steel components.

• Advantages: Extremely clean welds with very little slag. It allows for high productivity and deep penetration in thick structural steel.

• Limitation: Cannot be used outdoors in windy conditions, as the wind will blow away the shielding gas, leading to porosity (weakness) in the weld.

2. FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding)

FCAW uses a tubular flux-cored electrode. Self-shielded and gas-shielded variants have different equipment and environmental requirements; select the process and consumable through the qualified welding procedure.

• Best for: Heavy structural steel erection and on-site welding.

• Advantages: Highly portable and much more tolerant of wind than MIG. It is excellent for thick plates used in industrial frames and heavy-duty lintels.

• Why we use it: It provides high deposition rates, meaning we can complete large structural joints faster without sacrificing strength.

3. SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding) – Commonly Known as Stick

This is the most traditional and versatile form of welding. It uses a consumable electrode (stick) coated in flux.

• Best for: Outdoor repairs, mobile welding in Toronto’s winter, and hard-to-reach structural joints.

• Advantages: It is the most “rugged” process. It doesn’t require gas tanks and can weld through minor surface rust or paint (though we always clean surfaces for CWB-level quality). It is the go-to for on-site emergency repairs.

• Site suitability: SMAW can be useful for field work, but moisture, wind, access, temperature and the qualified procedure still determine whether welding may proceed.

4. MCAW (Metal-Cored Arc Welding)

A high-efficiency variation that combines the benefits of MIG and Flux-Core. It uses a metal-filled tubular wire.

• Best for: Large-scale commercial projects requiring high-volume fabrication.

• Benefits: It produces almost no slag and very little spatter, reducing the time needed for “finishing” and cleaning before painting or galvanizing.

5. How We Choose the Right Process

At Weld Rich & Steel, the selection process is governed by the Welding Procedure Specification (WPS) approved by the CWB. We consider:

1. Environment: Is the work in our shop or on a windy construction site?

2. Material Thickness: Thin-gauge architectural metal vs. 1-inch thick structural beams.

3. Position: Is the weld being done on a table (flat) or overhead on a bridge support?

4. Aesthetics: Does the weld need to be perfectly smooth for a visible staircase, or is it a hidden structural joint?

Expertise You Can Trust

Welding process selection must match the material, joint, position, site conditions and applicable qualified procedure. Confirm the processes required for your project when discussing the scope.

Reference: CWB company certification. Confirm applicable standards, editions and project requirements with the responsible professionals.

While carbon steel is the workhorse of the construction industry, stainless steel is its high-performance counterpart. Known for its exceptional resistance to corrosion, heat, and chemical damage, stainless steel is the preferred material for environments where hygiene and longevity are non-negotiable.

In Ontario, from the food processing plants of the GTA to modern architectural landmarks, stainless steel fabrication plays a vital role. Here are the five most common applications where this premium alloy is indispensable.

1. Food and Beverage Processing

Food-processing applications require materials and fabrication details appropriate for the product, cleaning regime and applicable requirements. Confirm any hygienic welding, vessel or process-equipment scope before requesting fabrication.

• Why Stainless Steel? The chromium-rich oxide layer prevents the metal from reacting with food acids or cleaning chemicals.

• Applications: Custom-fabricated mixing tanks, conveyors, industrial sinks, and work surfaces. At Weld Rich & Steel, we focus on high-quality welds that eliminate “pits” where bacteria could grow.

2. Architectural and Decorative Elements

Modern architecture in Toronto heavily relies on the “clean” look of stainless steel. Unlike painted carbon steel, stainless steel maintains its luster with minimal maintenance.

• AESS (Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel): Used in high-end lobbies, glass-and-steel guardrails, and exterior cladding.

• Durability: Stainless steel can resist many exposures, but grade selection, surface condition, fabrication contamination and cleaning remain important.

3. Commercial Kitchens and Hospitality

Beyond food processing, the hospitality sector (restaurants, hotels, hospitals) requires custom stainless steel solutions that fit unique layouts.

• Customization: Standard off-the-shelf equipment rarely fits perfectly. Professional fabrication allows for custom-sized exhaust hoods, backsplashes, and specialized shelving.

• Heat Resistance: Stainless steel maintains its structural integrity at temperatures that would cause other metals to warp or oxidize.

4. Chemical and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

In environments where aggressive chemicals are present, carbon steel would fail within months. Stainless steel, particularly grades like 316, provides the necessary chemical resistance.

• Corrosion Resistance: The addition of molybdenum in 316-grade stainless steel makes it resistant to chlorides (salts) and acidic solutions.

• Applications: Chemical storage tanks, specialized piping systems, and laboratory workstations.

5. Marine and Outdoor Infrastructure

Waterfront properties and marine environments are the most “hostile” for metal. The high moisture and salt content in the air lead to rapid oxidation.

• Infrastructure: Custom brackets for docks, outdoor signage frames, and lighting fixtures.

• Lifecycle comparison: Compare initial cost, maintenance and exposure for the actual material and protection systems. Stainless steel is not automatically the lowest-cost option for every environment.

Technical Note: Choosing the Right Grade

Not all stainless steel is the same. Our fabrication team typically works with two primary grades:

1. Grade 304: The most common “all-purpose” stainless. Great for indoor use and food prep.

2. Grade 316: Often considered where chloride exposure is significant. Select the grade against the actual environment, design and maintenance requirements rather than treating it as mandatory for every outdoor application.

Precision in Every Weld

Fabricating stainless steel requires a different set of skills than carbon steel. It requires precise heat control to prevent warping and specialized finishing to maintain its corrosion-resistant properties. At Weld Rich & Steel, we bring the same CWB-certified precision to our stainless projects as we do to our structural framing.

CSA W47.1: What Project Teams Should Verify. This guide explains what a project team should clarify before fabrication or field work.

Company certification and welding workmanship

CSA W47.1 concerns certification of companies carrying out fusion welding of steel. CSA W59 addresses welded steel construction. These roles are related, but company certification, individual welder qualifications, inspection and occupational safety requirements should not be treated as interchangeable.

Verify the actual company and scope

Use the official CWB directory and request current validation information for the company that will perform the work. Confirm the certification standard, applicable scope and any project-specific qualification requirements. A welder’s qualification record is not a substitute for company certification.

Agree procedures before fabrication

The project specification and qualified welding procedures establish how the work is performed. Material, thickness, joint configuration, welding position and site conditions matter. If a detail changes, obtain the required review before welding rather than adapting a structural connection informally.

Plan inspection and records

Confirm the inspection provider, acceptance criteria, hold points and reports required by the project. Visual inspection and NDT serve different purposes. Their extent and timing should come from the specification and responsible professionals, rather than a blanket promise that every connection receives the same test.

Keep site safety responsibilities clear

Hot-work authorization, fire watch, ventilation, lifting and fall protection require their own site planning and applicable safety controls. A company’s welding certification does not replace those controls or transfer all liability away from an owner or contractor.

What to send for a welding enquiry

Include the current drawings, material information, project location, access constraints, required installation scope and any specified certification or inspection requirements. This lets the fabrication team identify missing information before pricing or scheduling.

Reference: CWB company certification. Confirm applicable standards, editions and project requirements with the responsible professionals.

Metal fabrication is the invisible backbone of the construction industry. While concrete and wood have their places, structural steel and custom metalwork provide the strength, precision, and longevity that modern buildings require. In the Greater Toronto Area, where building codes are strict and weather conditions are extreme, the quality of metal fabrication can determine the overall success of a project.

Here are the four primary ways metal fabrication is transforming modern construction sites.

1. Structural Framing (The Skeleton)

The most critical application of metal fabrication is the creation of a building’s structural frame. Beams, columns, and girders are engineered to support massive loads while maintaining a relatively slim profile compared to concrete.

• Why it matters: Steel frames allow for “open-concept” designs with fewer interior support columns.

• Fabrication accuracy: Current drawings, dimensional checks and coordinated connection details help reduce avoidable site adjustments.

2. Life Safety Systems: Stairs and Fire Escapes

In commercial and multi-unit residential buildings, metal fabrication is essential for safety. Custom-fabricated steel staircases and fire escapes are required to comply with the Ontario Building Code (OBC).

• Durability: Unlike wood, steel stairs do not burn, rot, or warp.

• Customization: Fabrication allows us to build everything from heavy-duty industrial emergency exits to architecturally stunning “floating” stairs for modern offices.

• Protection: Select coatings or galvanizing for the exposure and maintain them according to the project and supplier requirements.

3. Structural Retrofitting and Renovations

As the GTA grows, many older buildings require “retrofitting”—the process of strengthening an existing structure. Metal fabrication is the go-to solution for this.

• Application: Replacing old, sagging wood beams with structural steel I-beams to create wide-open living spaces in residential renovations.

• Reinforcement: Adding steel plates or channels to existing structures to support new, heavier rooftop HVAC units or additional floors.

• Hybrid Use: Fabricating custom brackets and connectors that allow steel to integrate seamlessly with older masonry or timber frames.

4. Architectural and Secondary Steel (AESS)

Metal fabrication isn’t just for what’s hidden behind the walls. Architecturally Exposed Structural Steel (AESS) is used when the metalwork is a visible part of the building’s aesthetic.

• Examples: Custom handrails, decorative bollards, glass-and-steel guardrails, and exposed mezzanines.

• The Finish: These applications require a higher level of finishing, such as seamless grinding and high-quality powder coating, to ensure the metal is as beautiful as it is strong.

Why Choose Professional Fabrication?

At Weld Rich & Steel, commercial steelwork enquiries are reviewed against the supplied drawings, required fabrication and installation scope, and project conditions. Confirm the certification and inspection requirements for the specific package.

For projects involving custom metal fabrication in Toronto, we at Weld Rich and Steel are conscientious about assigning the necessary expertise at each step of the process, from consultants to craftsmen.

The project in question for this piece showcases our ability to handle simple-scoped requests, a juxtaposition to the more complex undertakings we’ve previously highlighted.

What Do Guard Rails Do?

At the heart of their implementation lies the ability to safeguard structures, products, people, and facility equipment, amongst other valuable items/areas, from dangerous collisions. Their design philosophy is geared towards making them as discreet as possible while providing maximal safety.

Damage done to structures and equipment like these is often accompanied by immense repair costs, and the damage that could be done to human lives is invaluable. That is why many of our clients opt for cost-effective railing systems that, for all intents and purposes, eliminate the possibility of such accidents; in this case, we were tasked with installing a single-sided guardrail to shield the wall from heavy-duty garbage containers, preventing costly damage.

What Are Guard Rails Made out Of?

Railings produced through custom metal fabrication in Toronto are made from a range of materials, including concrete, steel, and aluminum.

Nonetheless, in most cases, you are liable to see guard rails manufactured from steel. This is due to their ease of fabrication and their ability to withstand a wide range of forces that certain situations may demand.

To better understand this, let’s take the most prevalent railing installation – the highway guard rail. In most, if not all, cases, you’ll see these rails fabricated from galvanized steel and attached to steel uprights with bolts and fasteners. This design allows for the absorption of high-impact collisions while also being economically scalable.

We hope to have imparted some insight into the thought process behind each and every project we undertake in custom metal fabrication in Toronto, no matter how small in scale. To give you an idea of how versatile the team at Weld Rich and Steel are, view our portfolio of works showcasing everything from Bobcat excavator repairs to residential balconies. We service Torontonians from Durham to Halton, so get in touch and contract a team with proven experience!