5 Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Finding the right metal fabrication partner isn’t just about price or how close they are to your location. It’s about reliability. It’s about quality. And above all, it’s about trust. Whether you’re working on a commercial project, infrastructure job, or custom build, you need a fabricator who understands what’s at stake. You need someone who can understand your vision and align it with uncompromised quality. A few bad welds or misaligned parts can bring everything to a halt.

Metalwork is the backbone of your project. If the fabrication isn’t solid, your timelines can be disturbed, your budget can be stretched, and safety can be compromised. That’s why choosing a team with real experience, clear communication, and high standards matters more than most people realize. Good metalwork doesn’t draw attention to itself; it just works in silence. Quietly, consistently, and correctly, hence why many people might miss its importance. And when that happens, everything else runs smoother. The right partner helps you avoid stress, delays, and costly revisions. It’s about who can deliver, on time and without excuses.

So before signing that contract, ask these five simple but critical questions.

1. Have They Done Work Like This Before?

Experience is everything when it comes to fabrication. If a company has never worked on projects like yours, chances are that you might be rolling a risky dice. Some shops handle small custom parts. On the other hand, some are set up for full-scale industrial work. Then there are companies like Rollins Production Metals, LLC, who work across a wide range, from structural steel to training the welders who build it.

Ask to see samples. Don’t settle for just photos but go through actual case studies. A trustworthy shop will walk you through what they have done, how they did it, and the results.

2. What Standards Do They Follow?

Certifications matter. If a fabrication company isn’t following industry standards, your project could fall apart, literally. Look for welding certifications, like AWS. Ask about quality checks. A good shop will have systems in place for inspection, not just “eyeballing” work before it ships out.

At Rollins Production Metals, LLC, their team doesn’t just build according to the code, they teach it too. As a welding and metalwork education company, they’re familiar with the standards because they train people to meet them. That’s the kind of partner you can rely on.

3. Can They Handle Changes Without Blowing the Budget?

Things change. A drawing gets revised or a measurement seems off. A client adds something last-minute. When that happens, you don’t want excuses; you want solutions. Ask if the company offers in-house design support. Do they have CAD experts on staff? Can they spot problems before they hit the floor?

The best fabricators don’t just weld metal. They help you plan. They think with you. If they’re flexible and communicate well, you’re already ahead.

4. What’s Their Track Record on Deadlines?

Delays cost money. They create bottlenecks and push back inspections. And if your metalwork isn’t on site when it’s needed, the whole job can stop.

Ask about lead times. Don’t just take their word. Ask past clients if the company delivered when promised. Some companies, like Rollins Production Metals, take pride in their fast turnaround. Their operation is built for efficiency, and they back it up with reliable transport too so they can show up on time. You want someone who delivers the right results on time.

5. Do They Do It All or Just Some of It?

Some fabricators only cut. Others weld. A few of them offer design, cutting, welding, assembly, and delivery, all under one roof. That matters more than you might think.

If your project involves numerous steps or custom parts, dealing with multiple vendors can be a headache. When one shop can do the full job, you save time, reduce errors, and keep costs in control. Ask what services they handle. And more importantly, ask what they don’t do.

Bonus Point: How Do They Treat You?

This part is often overlooked. But it shouldn’t be. How a company talks to you during the quote stage tells you a lot. Are they responsive? Do they explain things clearly? Do they ask good questions? Or are they vague, slow, and hard to reach?
Your fabrication partner doesn’t just make metal. They’re part of your project team. If they don’t take you seriously now, they won’t later.

Conclusion: Ask the Right Questions to Make the Right Choice

The right metal fabrication company isn’t the cheapest. It’s the one that keeps your project moving, helps you solve problems, and shows up when it counts. So, ask questions. Do your homework. Talk to people.

And if you need a partner with a solid track record, both in metalwork and in training the next generation of welders, Rollins Production Metals, LLC is your answer. They don’t just build parts. They build confidence.