Architects and Designers

A large majority of our work comes to us from Architects and Designers and we welcome any chance to form closer relationships with them. We are able to advise on the technical aspects of metalwork when the Architect or Designer has the overall vision. In these days of modular ironwork it is easy to choose from a catalogue of welded on components, so we welcome ideas for something special that is traditionally made.


We also encourage visits to our forge from anyone who designs, specifies or has plans to create a metal structure. You can look at the forge in production and even try your hand to get a feel of the craft. To book a visit or just ask a question please either email us or call us on 01258 472407.

We work with many Architects and Designers.

Specifying Ironwork

If you have an ironwork project and need to prepare a specification for tender, we would always recommend having a detailed assessment of the required works first. We are often employed to survey prospective projects and can prepare reports, drawings and full specifications. This will give detailed, quantified requirements and allow competitive tender pricing.

 

(A little moan) We very often see the same generic specification terms used when tendering for ironwork projects and wonder if the high specifications asked for are often truly required. Sometimes we have lost work on price only to see it completed by others in a much simplified way, without the high specification as originally stated. This can be frustrating.

 

Some basic points to consider when writing a specification for your ironwork project are shown right, but for more detailed information, download our specifying ironwork guide.

 

 

  • Materials - Wrought iron, cast iron or steel? Which is most appropriate and does the term 'wrought iron' refer to the material or simply the style?
  • Methods of Manufacture - Are modern welding and fabrication techniques suitable or a traditional build? If a repair, is flame cleaning required or could the item be shotblasted?
  • Finshes - Will it be painted and if so what paint system is required? Will it be galvanised, zinc sprayed or powder coated? If so is this suitable for the base material?
  • Extent of repair - How far to take repairwork. Are all damaged sections to be replaced? Are previous poor repairs to be reversed? Which traditional techniques need to be employed?
  • Lead time - Hand forging, pattern making and sourcing wrought iron etc. take time. Does the programme allow time to produce the required specification?
  • Enhancing property - What quality and value will the ironwork add to the space it is in? It should be a long term investment.