Frequently Asked Questions
General & Process
Who is Vancouver Fabricators and what do you build?
We’re a custom metal fabrication shop in Vancouver, BC serving the Lower Mainland. We design, fabricate, finish, and install mono stringer stairs, driveway/security gates, metal railings, and offer CNC plasma cutting.
What does your end-to-end process look like?
Discovery call → site measure or client drawings → CAD/shop drawings & quote → engineering (if required) → material procurement → in-house fabrication → finishing (galvanize/powder coat/paint) → delivery & installation → walkthrough & warranty.
How fast can I get a quote?
With photos/dimensions: 24–72 hours. For complex stairs or automated gates, add time for site measure and preliminary drawings.
Do you work with homeowners, GCs, architects, and strata?
Yes—single homes to multi-unit/strata and commercial sites. We coordinate drawings, schedules, and site rules.
Can you fabricate from my sketch or do you need CAD?
We can start from a sketch or inspiration photo. Our team produces CAD/shop drawings for approval before fabrication.
What file formats do you accept?
PDF, DWG/DXF, STEP, and high-resolution images. For CNC plasma, DXF/DWG is ideal.
Timelines & Scheduling
What are typical lead times?
After approvals/deposit: Mono stringer stairs—design 1–2 weeks; fabricate/finish 3–6 weeks; install 1–3 days. Driveway/security gates—design 1–2 weeks; fabricate/finish 3–5 weeks; install 1–2 days (automation may add electrical time). Railings—design 3–7 days; fabricate/finish 2–4 weeks; install 1–2 days.
How do seasons affect schedules?
Exterior coatings and concrete work depend on weather. We’ll hold dates and adjust for rain/cold to protect finish quality.
Can you rush a project?
Often—if material and finish capacity allow. We’ll outline an expedited fee and realistic milestones.
Engineering, Code & Permits
Do you provide engineering?
Yes. Structural engineering is available for stairs, gates, and guard/handrail systems as needed.
Will my project meet BC Building Code and municipal rules?
We design to BCBC and local bylaws. For automated gates, we follow safety/clearance standards and coordinate with the municipality as required.
Do you handle permits?
We can assist with permit drawings and documents; the homeowner/GC typically submits. We’ll advise what’s required in your city.
Materials & Finishes
What materials do you offer?
Carbon steel, stainless steel (304/316 for coastal exposure), and aluminum—selected for strength, weight, and corrosion resistance.
What finishes are best for Vancouver’s coastal climate?
Hot-dip galvanizing + powder coat is our most durable exterior combo. We also offer zinc-rich epoxy primers, two-part paints, and brushed stainless.
Can you colour-match existing finishes?
Yes—RAL/powder libraries and custom wet-paint matches are available.
Do you offer weathered “Corten” steel?
Yes, with detailing to manage runoff staining and edge protection.
Mono Stringer Metal Stairs (Interior & Architectural)
What is a mono stringer staircase?
A single central steel spine supporting treads—clean, modern, and space-efficient.
What tread options do you offer?
Solid wood, engineered wood, steel plate, grating, and glass (with engineered details). Nosing profiles and anti-slip options available.
Can you integrate glass or cable railings with stairs?
Absolutely—post or standoff systems, minimalist handrails, and code-compliant guard heights.
How do you measure for a perfect fit?
Laser measure, riser/tread calculation to BCBC, mock-up of landings, and shop-assembled test fits before finish.
Can mono stringers be installed in renovations?
Yes—modular sections and temporary shoring plans minimize disruption in tight interiors.
What about creak or vibration?
We design for stiffness, use hidden bracing where needed, and isolate connections to reduce sound.
Do you supply shop drawings for the inspector?
Yes—dimensioned drawings and, if required, engineer’s letter.
Driveway Gates (Manual)
What manual driveway gate styles are available?
Swing or sliding gates in steel or aluminum with pickets, solid panels, decorative infill, or privacy slats.
How do you prepare posts and footings?
Engineered footings sized for wind/weight, plumbed posts, and proper drainage at thresholds.
Can you add a pedestrian gate to match?
Yes—coordinated hardware, locks, and self-closing hinges for code compliance.
What locks and hardware do you use?
Heavy-duty hinges, drop bolts, keyed locks, or smart latch options depending on use.
Automated Driveway Gates
Do you supply and install automatic gate operators?
Yes—swing and slide operators sized to the gate weight, with control panels and safety devices.
What safety features are included?
Photo-eyes, edges, signage, and loop detectors as appropriate. We commission and test all safety systems.
Can I open the gate with my phone?
Yes—app-enabled access, keypads, fobs, intercoms, and integrations with smart home platforms.
Who handles electrical work?
We fabricate and mount; a licensed electrician provides power, low-voltage, and conduits. We coordinate trenching/locations.
Do you service existing operators?
We maintain, upgrade, and replace most brands; we’ll assess compatibility first.
Security Gates
What makes a gate “security rated”?
Stronger frames, anti-climb infill, tamper-resistant hardware, and reinforced posts with deeper footings.
Can you integrate cameras and access control?
Yes—mounting plates, cable routing, and device placement coordinated with your security contractor.
Are there options for emergency access?
Fire-department compliant override boxes and manual release systems can be included.
Metal Railings (Interior/Exterior)
What railing systems do you build?
Picket, glass, cable, and panel railings in steel, stainless, or aluminum for stairs, balconies, and decks.
Will my railing meet guard and handrail code?
Yes—height, load, spacing, and graspability to BCBC; engineering available where required.
Can you retrofit railings on concrete or wood?
We provide anchors/plates for concrete, and blocking details for wood framing.
Do you supply shop-finished components for site assembly?
Yes—pre-finished sections for rapid install and minimal site disruption.
CNC Plasma Cutting & Custom Parts
What is your CNC plasma capacity?
High-definition table cutting steel up to typical plate thicknesses used in gates, stairs, brackets, and signage. Send your specs for exact limits.
Do you cut one-offs or production runs?
Both—prototype to short-run production with consistent tolerances.
Can you help prepare cut files?
Yes—DXF clean-up, nesting for material efficiency, and kerf allowances handled by our team.
What finishes follow plasma cutting?
Deburring, sandblast, galvanize, powder coat, or paint—based on application.
Installation & Site Logistics
How do you handle tight urban installations?
We plan access routes, book elevators/lanes, use mini-equipment, and protect finishes with mats and wraps.
Will you coordinate with strata or the GC?
Yes—insurance/WSBC docs, schedules, and site rules are provided ahead of time.
How messy is the install?
We cut/grind off-site where possible; on site we use dust control, magnetic sweepers, and end-of-day cleanups.
Quality, Testing & Handover
How do you ensure quality before delivery?
Fit-up inspections, weld tests, dry-fits in the shop, and coating thickness checks after finishing.
Do you provide maintenance guides?
Yes—care instructions by material/finish, plus lubrication and inspection intervals for gates.
What warranty do you offer?
Workmanship warranty on fabrication/install and manufacturer warranties on coatings/automation. Terms are outlined in your quote.
Pricing, Payments & Contracts
What’s included in your quote?
CAD/drawings, materials, fabrication hours, shop finish, hardware/automation (if any), site prep, installation, and warranty—line-itemed for clarity.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes—deposit to start drawings/materials, a progress draw at fabrication, and balance at installation/turnover.
Can you price multiple options?
Absolutely—good/better/best materials or finishes to fit budget and performance goals.
How do change orders work?
We issue written pricing for any scope changes; fabrication resumes once approved.
Maintenance & Service
How often should an automated gate be serviced?
Typically every 6–12 months: tensioning, lubrication, safety test, and control check.
How do I care for powder-coated steel near salt air?
Rinse periodically, avoid abrasive cleaners, and touch up chips promptly to prevent under-film corrosion.
Do you offer touch-ups and repairs?
Yes—on-site welding, panel replacements, hinge/bearing swaps, and finish repairs.
Sustainability & Sourcing
Do you recycle metal offcuts?
Yes—offcuts are recycled, and we optimize nesting to reduce waste.
Can you source Canadian-made steel and components?
Where available, yes—we can note domestic content on your invoice if needed.
Getting Started & Service Area
What areas do you serve?
Vancouver and the Lower Mainland: Burnaby, Richmond, North/West Vancouver, Surrey, Delta, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Langley, Maple Ridge, and nearby.
What should I send to kick off a quote?
Photos, rough dimensions, preferred material/finish, any inspiration images, and your timeline. For stairs/gates, note site access and power availability.
Can I visit your shop?
Yes—by appointment. We’ll review materials, finishes, and examples to finalize your design.
Ready to build?
Send your details to Vancouver Fabricators for a fast, itemized quote and a clear schedule—custom metal done right for Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.