--- title: A Quick Checklist To Help You Ensure Turnaround & Quality With Your Steel Fabrication Company description: This 6 point checklist can be used to help you minimise the risk of delay and ensure the highest quality standards when ordering steel fabrications... image: https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/Blog%20Images/A%20Quick%20Checklist%20To%20Help%20You%20Ensure%20Turnaround%20%26%20Quality%20With%20Your%20Steel%20Fabrication%20Company-NEW.jpg --- Call us: 01945 464 637 [![GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/GLW%20Engineering%20Dec2016/Image/glw-logo21-300x80.png)](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/) # The GLW Engineering Blog [Structural Steel Fabrication](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication) ## [A Quick Checklist To Help You Ensure Turnaround & Quality With Your Steel Fabrication Company](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/a-quick-checklist-to-help-you-ensure-turnaround-and-quality-with-your-steel-fabrication-company) ![A Quick Checklist To Help You Ensure Turnaround & Quality With Your Steel Fabrication Company-NEW.jpg](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog%20Images/A%20Quick%20Checklist%20To%20Help%20You%20Ensure%20Turnaround%20%26%20Quality%20With%20Your%20Steel%20Fabrication%20Company-NEW.jpg?width=796&height=545&name=A%20Quick%20Checklist%20To%20Help%20You%20Ensure%20Turnaround%20%26%20Quality%20With%20Your%20Steel%20Fabrication%20Company-NEW.jpg) When managing a construction or civil engineering project it is common to outsource structural and architectural steel components to a specialist fabrication company. For many project managers this is a sore point, because steel fabrications are notorious for throwing off project timetables and forcing products to run over budget. Quality is also sometimes an issue as well, especially with architectural components such as balustrades, staircase railings and cycle shelters. There are a number of reasons for this difficulty. Some are the result of technological choices, such as how components are zinc treated before use. Some result from confusion over engineering standards compliance, and others result from issues in communication and planning. The following is a quick six point checklist you can use to minimise the risk of delay and ensure the highest quality standards when ordering [steel fabrications](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication). All these topics are explained in greater depth in our free e-book, which can be downloaded through the link at the end of this article. ## 1) Plan Ahead The more time you have available before your delivery deadline, the greater options you will have to secure the right quality at the right price. The longer you leave it before outsourcing your fabrication, the more restricted your options will be. You may find you have to pay a premium to achieve the same delivery, or compromise on quality. From an engineer’s perspective, it is more difficult and more expensive to source the materials and manpower we need when faced with a last-minute order. There is no choice but to reflect this in the quote. For the best deal, plan ahead as far as possible. ## 2) Choose A Local Company There are some great fabrication companies based all over the country, but we recommend choosing a local business for your fabrication work. This makes it easier to arrange face-to-face meetings and keep the project on track. It also gives you the opportunity to meet the engineers in person and have a look at the fabrication company’s facilities. It also cuts down on delivery times, which could cause delays, especially if the business needs to outsource some aspects of their work – such as hot dip galvanisation. ## 3) In-House fabrication & Treatment Facilities The more a business can do in-house, the cheaper your costs will be and the less risk you will have of delay. The reason is that if the business has to outsource parts of the fabrication process to another company, this will immediately increase your costs.  It also opens up the project to delays, as your direct contractor has no control over delays in the sub-contractor business, such as staff holidays, sickness or supplier issues. Most fabrication companies do the actual steelwork themselves, but it is common to outsource treatments and coatings. Chat with the company about what you need and see what, if any, of the work has to be outsourced. If third parties are involved, find out who they are (if possible) and where they are located. ## 4) Consider Alternatives To Hot-Dip Galvanisation Hot dip galvanisation is the industry-standard way of coating steel components with zinc for corrosion and weather resistance. However, it isn’t always the best method. Firstly it is expensive because it involves bulky equipment and specialist knowledge. This is the reason most fabrication companies outsource hot zinc galvanisation. Secondly, it can affect the quality of your steel by warping it slightly under the high temperatures involved.  Hot zinc spray coating is a viable alternative to galvanisation that requires less kit and less space. It is therefore cheaper and more practical for fabrication companies to do it in-house, thus saving the customer money. This is the approach we take a GLW engineering. ## 5) Coatings & Finishing As well as the standard zinc coating, consider what other powder coatings and treatments your component may need. These needs will vary depending on where your component is located. An outside balustrade, for instance, will experience a higher risk of corrosion than an internal stair rail. Shop around for a fabrication company that offers a range of anticorrosion coatings and weigh up the benefits in term of cost and returns. Some treatments can extend the effective life of a fabrication by 10 to 20 years or more. ## 6) Accreditations/Compliance All structural steel components are required to meet the engineering standards set out in the Construction Products Regulation, which entered UK law in 2013. Architectural components, however, are not covered, so some fabrication companies apply CPR standards to architectural fabrications, while others don’t. To remove any question marks over quality when ordering architectural fabrications, choose a company, such as [GLW,](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/) that universally applies CPR standards to all their work. ## Everything You Need To Know About Outsourcing Stainless Steel Fabrications All these topics and more are covered in greater detail in our free guide; How To Ensure Quality, Compliance & Lead Time When Hiring Steel Fabrication Companies. You can download a copy for free by [clicking here](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/download-how-to-ensure-quality-compliance-lead-times-when-hiring-steel-fabrication-companies). To speak with one of our engineers about your project requirements, please don’t hesitate to [get in touch](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/contact/) by phone or email. We look forward to hearing from you. [![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/8b83a844-c63c-4810-9764-679773abfcd9.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/8b83a844-c63c-4810-9764-679773abfcd9) October 04, 2017 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) ##### Share this entry - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c) ### Subscribe to Email Updates [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d) ### Latest Posts - [![How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-railing.jpg "How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion") **How To Protect Metal Railings From CorrosionApril 01, 2021 - 04:50 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-protect-metal-railings-from-corrosion) Rust can not only affect the appearance of [metal railings](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-guide-to-railings-handrails), but also their structural integrity, posing a potential safety hazard to users. It isn’t just visible corrosion you need to watch out for. If appropriate preventive steps are not taken, rusting may even occur from the inside, seriously compromising the strength of the railings and causing[...] - [![How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusty-railing.jpg "How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades") **How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel BalustradesMarch 25, 2021 - 04:29 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-avoid-rust-on-your-steel-balustrades) [Steel is an excellent choice of metal for balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/suitable-type-of-metal-for-outdoor-railings-and-handrails), as it offers decent resistance to rust and tarnishing as well as an eye-catching appearance that is both sleek and contemporary. However, despite its weather resistant properties, steel is not totally free from corrosion, particularly if it is poorly maintained. - [![Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-balustrades.jpg "Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?") **Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?March 18, 2021 - 04:06 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/aluminium-or-steel-balustrades-sustainable-option) When you’re choosing balustrades, handrails, and railings for a project, there are many reasons why you may opt for one material over another. For example, you may prioritise appearance, durability, corrosion resistance, or cost, with the decision likely to be influenced by factors such as the location of the metalwork, the environmental[...] - [![3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusted-metal-blasting.jpg "3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork") **3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your MetalworkMarch 11, 2021 - 03:37 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/3-ways-that-shot-blasting-can-improve-your-metalwork) Shot blasting is an abrasive ‘blast’ surface treatment that uses round metal shots that are propelled under high velocity,[ commonly to polish a metal substrate, to strengthen it, or to repair damaged metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/refreshing-equipment-with-shot-blasting) by closing cracks or tiny tears. The force required to propel the particles is achieved using a centrifuge or wheel, spun at high[...] - [![Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/paint-cans.jpg "Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications") **Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel FabricationsMarch 04, 2021 - 03:14 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/paint-vs-powder-coating-for-steel-fabrications) Surface finishing is vital for coating reactive metals such as steel. Without a suitable finish, oxidation can cause rust to form, which is not only unsightly but also threatens to weaken the structure, hastening its premature failure. Surface coatings are, therefore, more than just a way to improve the aesthetics of a [steel fabricated ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/steel-staircase-fabrication-guide)object, as[...] - [![The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/filipa-saldanha-TtOdr8tYtUU-unsplash.jpg "The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money") **The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You MoneyNovember 13, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-latest-trends-in-laser-welding-and-how-it-can-save-you-money) With the rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in recent years, many aspects of manufacture and fabrication will likely be revolutionised in the not-too-distant future. The fully automated laser welding machine, for example, could be on the horizon sooner than you think: able to decide for itself where and how to weld, to identify[...] - [![Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/daniel-smyth-03TaAgmtXwM-unsplash.jpg "Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?") **Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?November 06, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/manufacturing-or-fabrication-what-are-the-differences-and-do-they-matter) To many non-specialists, manufacturing and fabrication are simply two workshop-based processes that use various techniques to assemble or produce metal products. Often, the two terms are used interchangeably, with little awareness of the differences. While many of the methods used in manufacturing and fabrication may be similar, the difference[...] - [![How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/glenn-hansen-VW4xiLRr-do-unsplash.jpg "How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor") **How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication ContractorOctober 30, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-guarantee-quality-results-from-your-welding-metal-fabrication-contractor) The quality of the weld is extremely important in any fabrication project, as it guarantees the integrity, durability, and longevity of any structure. Quality control checks during and after welding are vital to ensure that high standards have been achieved. Any weakness in the weld, from tiny holes to splits or cracks, could be disastrous in the[...] - [![Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/craig-davis-sL0TGOevb78-unsplash.jpg "Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects") **Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication ProjectsOctober 23, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/fabrication-using-sheet-metal-why-thickness-matters-for-metal-fabrication-projects) The fabrication of sheet metal is a highly specialised task, requiring expert knowledge, skills, and equipment. If you’re planning to outsource the architectural steelwork for a civil engineering, commercial, or construction project, it’s vital to employ the services of a competent fabricator who can guarantee high-quality finishing that complies[...] - [![What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/chain-4239167_1920.jpg "What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?") **What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?October 16, 2020 - 04:48 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-are-the-most-effective-corrosion-prevention-coatings) Traditional galvanisation and newer hot zinc spray technologies are standard anti-corrosion treatments for vulnerable metals. However, they may not always be desirable or even necessary. Several other corrosion-resistant treatments are found in the form of coatings. The suitability of these will depend on several factors, such as aesthetics,[...] ### Recent Posts ### Posts by Topic - [Structural Steel Fabrication (44)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication) - [Powder Coating (31)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating) - [Handrailing Fabrication (15)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication) - [Shot Blasting (13)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting) - [Metal Fabrication in Norwich (12)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/metal-fabrication-in-norwich) - [Grit Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/grit-blasting) - [Soda Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/soda-blasting) - [Insider (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/insider) - [Sand Blasting (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) - [Abrasive Blast Cleaning Methods (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/abrasive-blast-cleaning-methods) - [Balustrade Fabrication (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/balustrade-fabrication) - [Hot Zinc Spraying (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/hot-zinc-spraying) - [Plasma Cutting (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/plasma-cutting) - [Security Gates (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates) - [Steel Staircase (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/steel-staircase) - [Blasting Methods (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/blasting-methods) - [Security Gates & Barriers (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates-barriers) - [Welding (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/welding) - [Traditional Galvanising (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/traditional-galvanising) - [Vacancies (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/vacancies) - [Bicycle Park (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/bicycle-park) - [Trolleys (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/trolleys) [see all](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/a-quick-checklist-to-help-you-ensure-turnaround-and-quality-with-your-steel-fabrication-company#) Search this site on Google Search Google © Copyright - GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd - Developed by [Viscribe Ltd](http://www.viscribe.co.uk) - [T & C’s](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/t-cs/) - [Privacy](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/privacy/) - [Smartwater](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/smartwater/)