• Normal welding processes will warp light-gauged materials almost immediately. Countertops, panels, column covers—even heavier railing systems—will distort from the intense heat welding introduces to the material.
• One method to reduce heat distortion is to apply a chill bar directly under the weld, usually something aluminum. Chill bars, in effect, grab the heat off the weld and can reduce warping significantly.

Copper materials naturally oxidize into several colors, starting with a medium brown then moving into a darker, richer brown. Copper will eventually start to appear almost black and then finally start working into the well known green color, looking like the famous Statue of Liberty. Copper surfaces can be maintained (kept from further oxidization) by periodic oiling with a high grade paraffin oil. Oil should be rubbed in with a very clean, soft cotton cloth and be repeated regularly (yearly) to maintain the bronze finish desired.

Here are two tips to prevent metal panels from oil canning:

1) Use heavier gauged materials—although more expensive, this solution works extremely well if the owner is hell bent on avoiding any visible oil canning.

2) Synch the fasteners down very carefully—not too tight! Driving the fasteners down super tight will give the metal absolutely no room to move.

High end stainless steel, glass, and designer railing systems are often spoiled by low end welding skills. Fat, gobby welds can instantly destroy the elegant lines associated with expensive, designer rail. What are the different welding methodologies available? What is the difference between TIG, MIG, and Stick Welding? What welding standards should I expect on my project? How do I define those standards and make sure they are met? Call us to discuss these questions and much, much more.