Halifax Fabrication

Getting Started & Process

How do I get a quote for a gate, fence, or staircase?

Start with photos of the site, rough measurements, and any inspiration images. We’ll discuss your goals (security, privacy, aesthetics), then schedule a site visit to confirm dimensions, power availability, grade, and frost considerations. You’ll receive a written scope with drawings, finish options, lead time, and payment milestones.

What does your typical project process look like?

Discovery → site visit → concept & budget range → detailed drawings → deposit → fabrication → surface treatment → installation → walkthrough. We’ll coordinate utility locates and confirm any permit requirements with you. Expect clear communication on timelines and any site prep needed (concrete, drainage, power).

How long does a typical project take?

Typical custom metal fabrication lead time: 3–6 weeks, plus installation which can be usually 1–3 days, depending on scope of the project. Weather and specialty coatings can add time. We’ll lock install dates once concrete cure windows and finish schedules are confirmed.

Can you work from my architect’s or builder’s plans?

Yes. Send PDFs or CAD exports. We verify on site, align to code requirements, and produce shop drawings for approval. For automation, we coordinate with electricians for power and low-voltage runs.

Do you service all HRM neighbourhoods?

Yes—Halifax Peninsula, Dartmouth, Bedford, Sackville, Cole Harbour, Hammonds Plains, Timberlea, Tantallon, Fall River and nearby communities. Please note: Coastal conditions guide our material and finish recommendations.

Design, Materials & Finishes (HRM coastal considerations)

Which metal is best near the ocean—aluminum, steel, or stainless?

• Aluminum: won’t rust; great for coastal. Lower structural weight, excellent for gates/fences.
• Steel: strong and cost-effective; hot-dip galvanize + powder coat resists corrosion.
• Stainless (304/316): premium corrosion resistance; best for high-exposure details. We’ll recommend based on span, wind load, budget, and look.

What finishes hold up in salt air and freeze–thaw?

• Hot-dip galvanizing for steel (zinc barrier + sacrificial protection).
• Powder coating over prep/primer for colour and UV stability.
• Marine-grade paint systems where needed. We design for drainage and venting to avoid rust traps.

Can you match a modern, heritage, or minimalist style?

Yes—clean minimalist frames, horizontal slats, heritage scrollwork, perforated or laser-cut panels. We’ll align profiles and colours with your home or building guidelines.

What impacts cost most in HRM for materials/finishes?

• Metal type (aluminum, steel + galvanizing, stainless)
• Finish system (galv + powder vs. paint)
• Design complexity (curves, cut patterns)
• Span/wind exposure; required structural members
• Access challenges (coastal sites, steep grades)

Automated Driveway Gates

(motors, access control, safety, winterization)

What automation options do you offer?

Swing or sliding operators, keypads, remotes, app control, intercom/video, vehicle sensors, and geofencing. We use [CSA/UL-listed operators; brand-agnostic] and integrate safety edges, photo eyes, and e-stops.

How reliable are automated gates in HRM winters?

With proper installation—correct posts/footings below frost, drainage, snow clearance zones, and heated/low-temp lubricants—automation is dependable. Battery backup and manual release handle outages or ice events. Seasonal tune-ups keep things smooth.

How do gate sensors work in snow and low light?

Photo eyes detect obstructions; monitored safety edges stop on contact; loop or magnetic sensors detect vehicles. We mount sensors to avoid snowbanks, add hoods for glare, and choose heated or weather-rated components where needed.

Do I need power at the driveway?

Yes, dedicated power at the gate location is ideal. We coordinate trenching and conduit with your electrician. Solar assist can work on low-cycle sites, but HRM winters reduce output—battery capacity and panel placement matter.

What impacts cost most in HRM for automated gates?

• Gate type/size (swing vs. slide; single vs. double)
• Posts/footings and ground conditions (frost, grade)
• Operator class (residential vs. commercial duty)
• Access control (keypad, intercom, app, camera)
• Power trenching and surge protection

Manual Driveway Gates

What’s the difference vs. automated?

Manual gates deliver the same security/curb appeal at lower upfront cost and simpler maintenance. They can be built “automation-ready” with hinge geometry, posts, and clearances sized for future operators.

Which hinges and latches do you recommend?

Heavy-duty adjustable hinges (greasable) and marine-grade latches. For coastal sites we favour stainless hardware and sealed bearings. Gate stops reduce wind-induced stress.

How do you handle wind on wide spans?

We model sail effect, specify frames, add mid-rails/perforations, and recommend sliding or cantilever designs where wind is significant. Ground stops and hold-opens help.

What impacts cost most in HRM for manual gates?

• Span and height
• Frame sections and infill (pickets, panels, wood/metal mix)
• Posts/footings (frost depth, rock)
• Finish (galvanized + powder vs. paint)
• Site access (grade, tight driveways)

Man-Gates (Pedestrian Gates)

What widths and hardware are typical?

Common clear openings are 36–48 inches; pool or strata rules may dictate self-closing/self-latching hardware. We use corrosion-resistant hinges/latches and closers tuned for HRM wind.

Can you integrate intercoms or keypads?

Yes—standalone keypads, keypad + RFID, or intercom/video tied to your phone. Weather-shrouds and heated housings improve reliability.

How do you balance privacy and visibility?

Options include vertical or horizontal slats, perforated metal, or mixed wood/metal infill for privacy without feeling closed-in. Sightlines to sidewalks and driveways are considered for safety.

What impacts cost most in HRM for man-gates?

• Material (aluminum vs. steel vs. stainless)
• Infill type (pickets, perforated, composite/wood)
• Closer/latch grade (residential vs. commercial)
• Posts/footings and site access
• Finish system and colour

Metal Fences

Which fence styles work near the coast?

Aluminum or galvanized/powder-coated steel picket fences perform well. For privacy, use slats or panel systems with drainage gaps to reduce wind load. Stainless fasteners prevent staining.

Do you build pool-compliant fences?

We can build to common pool safety guidelines (height, climb resistance, self-closing gates). Always confirm with HRM/AHJ and your insurer for specifics.

How do you handle uneven or sloped yards?

Racked panels, stepped sections, or custom frames maintain consistent picket spacing and height. We set posts below frost and plan for drainage to prevent frost heave.

What impacts cost most in HRM for metal fences?

• Linear footage and height
• Terrain (rock, slope, access)
• Post spacing/footings and gate count
• Material/finish choices
• Privacy panels vs. pickets

Interior & Exterior Metal Staircases

(including railings/guardrails)

What metal staircase types do you offer?

Straight runs, L/U-turns, spirals, mono-strings, and exterior galvanized steel stairs. Treads: plate, bar grating, checker, or wood overlays. Railings in steel/aluminum/stainless.

How do you address code basics (rise/run, handrails)?

We design to common code ranges and confirm with the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Typical guard heights and handrail diameters are respected; nosing and slip resistance are addressed with tread selection. Confirm with AHJ.

What finishes are best for exterior stairs?

Hot-dip galvanizing for steel, plus optional powder coat. For ocean-facing sites, aluminum or stainless rails reduce corrosion. Anti-slip nosings or gritted coatings add safety in winter.

What impacts cost most in HRM for stair projects?

• Configuration (straight vs. switchback vs. spiral)
• Stringer type (mono vs. dual) and span
• Tread material/finish and railing style
• Site access (tight interiors, crane needs)
• Engineering for loads/anchorage

Custom Metal Fabrication (one-off projects, prototypes)

Do you take small custom jobs?

Yes (if our schedule permits we can fit in the smaller projects)—rails, guard panels, brackets, decorative elements, and prototypes. We can work from sketches or 3D models and advise on materials/finishes for HRM conditions.

Can you match existing metalwork?

We replicate profiles, picket spacing, and finishes. Bring photos or a sample; we’ll field-measure to ensure a seamless look.

What impacts cost most in HRM for custom work?

• Material grade and thickness
• Complexity (curves, cut files, welding time)
• Finish system and colour
• Install conditions (height, access, permits)
• One-off vs. batch fabrication

Permits, Codes & Safety (NS/HRM context, high-level)

Do gates or fences need permits in HRM?

Rules vary by height, location, and use (pool enclosures differ). We’ll advise at a high level and help you confirm with HRM. Always confirm with your AHJ.

Are your operators CSA/UL compliant?

Yes, we specify CSA/UL-listed operators and include required safety devices (photo eyes, monitored edges, e-stops).

What about property lines and easements?

We recommend a locate/survey if uncertain. Fences/gates should be inside your property line; shared boundaries may require neighbour agreements.

Do you handle strata/HOA approvals?

We prepare drawings/specs that align with guidelines and colour palettes. You submit for approval; we can adjust as required.

Pricing, Payment & Financing (no price ranges shown)

How do you price projects?

We price by scope: materials, fabrication time, finish system, hardware, site conditions, and installation effort. Automation adds operators, controls, trenching, and commissioning. You’ll see a transparent breakdown.

Can you work within a budget?

Yes—material and finish choices, span changes, and design simplifications can reduce cost while keeping performance. We’ll propose value options that suit HRM weather.

Do you offer financing?

We do not offer financing, however we can stage projects (e.g., manual gate now, automation later) to spread spend.

What are your payment milestones?

Typical: deposit on approval, progress payment post-fabrication, balance on completion. Exact terms confirmed in your proposal.

Installation, Lead Times & Site Prep

(utility locates, concrete, posts, frost depth)

How do you handle frost and heave?

Posts/footings extend below local frost depth, with drainage and proper backfill. We avoid water traps in frames and ensure hinges/slides have clearance for winter expansion.

Who handles utility locates and trenching?

We coordinate utility locates. For power/data, we plan conduit routes with your electrician; we can arrange trenching or work with your contractor.

What site prep do I need?

Clear work areas, confirm access for equipment, and identify undergrounds. For gravel or pavers, we’ll recommend base prep for posts and tracks.

What is your typical lead time?

[Typical fabrication lead time: 3–6 weeks] depending on scope, finish queues, and weather. We’ll confirm at approval and update proactively.

Care, Maintenance & Repairs

(anti-corrosion, snow/ice, seasonal checks)

How do I maintain my metalwork?

Rinse salt in winter, inspect chips/scratches, touch up promptly, lubricate hinges/rollers, and test safety devices. Annual check-ups keep warranties strong.

How should I handle snow and ice at the gate?

Keep travel paths clear. Avoid packing snow against swing arcs or slide tracks. Use plastic shovels near finishes; de-icer sparingly to protect coatings.

Do you offer repair and service calls?

Yes—mechanical, finish touch-ups, hinge/roller adjustments, operator troubleshooting. Priority is given to safety issues.

What’s your warranty?

Workmanship warranty: 2 years on fabrication, plus manufacturer warranties on operators and accessories. Wear items and finishes follow normal-use conditions; details in proposal.

Commercial vs. Residential Considerations

What changes for commercial gates or fences?

Higher duty cycles, stronger posts/frames, commercial-rated operators, and stricter access control. We consider emergency access and traffic management.

Can you meet builder schedules?

Yes—we coordinate with GC timelines, other trades, and inspections. Early involvement reduces rework and delays.

Do you support property managers across HRM?

Yes—standardised hardware, keyed-alike plans, and service agreements for faster repairs.

What impacts cost most for commercial work?

• Duty rating and cycle count
• Security/integrations (access control, video)
• Traffic control hardware (loops, barriers)
• Engineering, permits, after-hours constraints

Troubleshooting & Common Issues

(gate won’t open, sensors, remotes, ice buildup)

My automated gate won’t open—what should I check?

Verify power, look for obstruction/snow, check photo-eye alignment/cleanliness, try manual release, and test remote/keypad batteries. If it still fails, request service.

The gate reverses or stops randomly—why?

Likely a safety device trigger: misaligned/dirty photo eyes, pressure edges, or current-sensing limits from wind/ice. Recalibration and debris clearing usually resolves it; surge issues may require protection.

Remotes/intercoms are intermittent in winter—any fixes?

Replace batteries, shield devices from wind-driven snow, and check antenna orientation. Upgrading to better-rated enclosures or adding repeaters can help on longer driveways.

How do I prevent ice buildup on sliding gates?

Maintain drainage, keep tracks clear, consider raised/cantilever systems, and use low-temperature lubricants. Heated components or strategic snow fencing can help exposed sites.

Feel Free To Contact Us Any Time

We hope these questions will answer the majority of your questions. If not, please call us at 902-800-7971, or fill in our online form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.