Custom metal fabrication is one of the most versatile and commonly used manufacturing processes in the world. From auto parts to medical equipment, almost every industry makes use of custom metal products in some way.

Cypress Metals in Salt Lake City, Utah, understands that if you are in need of a custom metal fabricator, it’s important to find one that meets your specific needs and requirements. But with so many options out there, how can you be sure you’re choosing the right one?

Here are a few tips on how to find a quality custom metal fabricator near you.

1. Start by Doing Your Research

There are a lot of custom metal fabricators out there, so it’s important to do your homework before making a decision. Read online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues, and compare pricing and services offered. By taking the time to do your research upfront, you’ll be more likely to find a fabricator that’s a good fit for your project.

2. Make Sure They Have Experience with Your Type of Project

Not all custom metal fabricators are created equal. Some specialize in commercial projects while others focus on more residential work. Be sure to ask about the fabricator’s level of experience with projects similar to yours. This will help ensure they have the skills and knowledge necessary to complete your project successfully.

3. Ask for Examples of Their Work

A picture is worth a thousand words, so asking for examples of the fabricator’s previous work is a great way to gauge the quality of their services. Most reputable fabricators will be happy to share photos or even video footage of past projects with you. This will give you a good idea of what to expect if you decide to move forward with them.

4. Get Quotes from Multiple Fabricators

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s time to start getting quotes from potential fabricators. Be sure to ask about pricing for both materials and labor so you can compare apples to apples. In addition, don’t be afraid to ask for discounts or promotions that might be available. By getting quotes from multiple fabricators, you’ll be able to choose the one that offers the best value for your money.

Choosing a metal fabricator can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these simple tips, you can be sure you’re choosing a reputable and experienced company that will get the job done right. And at a price that fits your budget.

So, what are you waiting for? If you’re looking for a quality custom metal fabricator in the Salt Lake City, UT, area, contact Cypress Metals today.

The leaves are changing colors, the air is getting cooler, and that means one thing: winter is coming! As a homeowner or business owner in Salt Lake City, it’s important to prepare your roof for the snow.

At Cypress Metals, we specialize in metal roofing for both residential and commercial properties in Utah. As the weather gets colder and the snow starts to fall, it’s important to make sure your metal roof is properly prepared.

In our September blog post, we discussed some of the basics of metal roofing care for winter. In this second and final part of our two-part blog series, we’ll discuss additional tips you need to know to prepare your metal roof for cold and snowy weather conditions in Utah.

Check Out Your Attic

A well-insulated and ventilated attic is key to keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient all year long. In the winter, insulation works to keep heat from escaping your home, while in the summer it prevents heat from entering. Properly venting your attic helps to regulate the temperature in your attic, preventing it from becoming too hot or too cold. This, in turn, helps to keep your entire home more comfortable and can even lower your energy bills.

Roofing materials play a role in attic insulation as well. A professional metal roofer can conduct an energy audit of your attic and help you choose the right materials for your needs. With the right insulation and ventilation, you can keep your home comfortable and protected all winter long.

Install Guards

As anyone who has experienced an ice dam can attest, it can be not only costly but also dangerous. Ice dams form when heat from your home escapes through the roof and melts the snow on the surface, which then refreezes when it reaches the cold eaves. This creates a dam that prevents melting snow from draining off the roof. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into your home, causing extensive damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and ductwork.

Metal roofs are much less likely to experience this problem since they are more efficient at reflecting heat. However, it’s always a good idea to take extra precautions in areas that are prone to heavy snow and ice.

Installing metal roof snow guards can help keep frozen precipitation in place and cause it to melt or slide off in small pieces rather than hazardous chunks. By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent costly and dangerous ice dam issues.

Safety First

Whenever you are working on or around your roof, safety should be your number one priority. Rooftop falls can be dangerous and even deadly, so it’s important to take all necessary precautions. Make sure to wear proper safety gear, avoid inclement weather conditions, and never get on the roof if you feel unsafe.

It’s also a good idea to leave all inspection and maintenance to a qualified professional who is licensed, bonded, and insured. By following these simple guidelines, you can help keep yourself and those around you safe from harm.

Cypress Metals is here to help you keep your metal roof in top condition all winter long in Salt Lake City! Contact us today to learn more about our metal roofing services.

As the weather in Salt Lake City cools and the leaves begin to change color, many home and business owners start thinking about fall maintenance tasks. Preventive maintenance is the best way to ensure your roof lasts. By taking care of your roof now before the cold and snow arrive, you can help prevent costly leaks and more expensive repairs in the future.

Cypress Metals has been providing quality metal fabrication services to the Salt Lake City area for over 30 years. We’re proud to be a full-service metal fabrication shop that can handle everything from commercial roofing and glazing to custom metal work. In this two-part blog series, we’ll discuss tips you need to know to prepare your metal roof for inclement weather conditions in Utah.

Get Your Roof Inspected

One important item on the list should be a professional evaluation of your roof’s condition. An experienced roofing contractor can safely identify potential trouble spots, point out needed maintenance and recommend proper repairs for minor problems before they turn into serious issues.

If a replacement is needed, do your homework, and check out resources. Look for worry-free options like metal roofs that will last for decades, hold up to climate extremes and deliver low-maintenance reliability to maximize long-term savings.

Clean Your Gutters

The fall is an ideal time to clean your gutters. With the leaves falling from the trees, it’s a good opportunity to remove any debris that has accumulated in your gutters over the course of the year. Not only will this help to keep your gutters clear, but it will also reduce the risk of water damage to your structure.

In addition, cleaning your gutters in the fall can help to prevent ice dams from forming in the winter. This will help to ensure that melting snow can drain properly, reducing the risk of water seeping into your building.

Clean Up Dirt and Debris

Moss growth on roofing material is a common issue in cooler climates where there is more moisture in the air. If you don’t have a metal roof, moss can cause rot and displaced singles, which can lead to leaks and other damage.

When choosing a roofing material for a home in a climate prone to moss growth, it is important to choose a material that is smooth and easy to clean. Metal roofs are a great option for Salt Lake City residents because they shed debris more easily and resist moss growth without using harsh chemicals.

Trim Your Trees

Trees can be a beautiful addition to any property, but it’s important to keep them trimmed and away from the roof. Doing so will help keep gutters clean and is a good safety precaution. Especially in areas like Utah that experience strong winds, snow, or ice. Broken branches can damage roofs, so it’s best to keep them trimmed back.

Don’t wait until problems arise – a little proactive care now can save you a lot of time, money, and worry down the road. In the next blog post, we’ll discuss additional ways to get your roof ready for winter in Utah.

If you’re looking for a metal roofing shop in the Salt Lake City area, that you can trust, contact Cypress Metals. We’ll be happy to help you with all your metal roofing needs.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the simplest differences between ferrous and non-ferrous metals, particularly within the metal fabrication world. These two designations, which refer primarily to iron content in a given metal, separate various metals in different ways — and while both have applications in metal fabrication, knowing which you’re working with is important for several reasons.

At Cypress Metals, we’re proud to serve as the best full-service metal fabrication shop in Salt Lake City, providing quality manufacturing for a wide range of products that runs from commercial accessories and roofing items through metal glazing and more. While part one of our series went over the differences between these types, today’s part two will look at common examples of metals that fall into either category.

Ferrous Metal Examples and Properties

Here are some examples of well-known ferrous metals, plus some of their properties:

• Stainless steel: This is a popular alloy that’s used in cookware and food preparation, among other applications. It contains chromium, which gives it rust-resistant properties.
• Carbon steel: Another popular alloy, carbon steel is used in a wide range of applications from construction to automotive work. It gets its name from the fact that it contains carbon (usually between 0.04% and 2%), which gives it increased hardness.
• Wrought iron: Wrought iron is a historic metal that’s no longer produced, but which can still be found in some applications. It contains less carbon than steel, making it more ductile.
• Cast iron: Cast iron is a metal that’s used in some construction applications, particularly for drainage pipes. It has a high carbon content, which makes it brittle.

Each of these metals has different properties that make them more or less ideal for certain applications. In general, ferrous metals are strong and durable, making them good choices for construction and other applications where strength is important. However, they’re also susceptible to rusting, which is why some alloys like stainless steel are used in damp or wet environments.

Non-Ferrous Metal Examples and Properties

Now let’s look at the flip side of the above:

• Aluminum: Aluminum is a lightweight metal that’s used in a wide range of applications, from food packaging to construction. It’s also used in some electronics because it conducts electricity well.
• Copper: Copper is another popular electrical conductor, and it’s also used in plumbing and some jewelry. It has a reddish color when it’s new, but it oxidizes over time to a greenish hue.
• Brass: Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and it’s used in everything from musical instruments to doorknobs. It has a yellowish color, and it’s relatively strong and durable.
• Zinc: Zinc is used in a number of applications, including coatings for other metals to protect them from corrosion.

These non-ferrous metals share some common properties: they’re all resistant to rust, and they’re all relatively lightweight. This makes them good choices for applications where weight is a concern, such as in aviation. They also don’t conduct electricity as well as some other metals, which can be an advantage or a disadvantage depending on the application.

For more on the differences between these products or how to choose the ideal material for your needs, or to learn about any of our metal fabrication or laser cutting services in SLC or nearby parts of Utah, contact the pros at Cypress Metals today.

There are a number of considerations that may be at play for any metal fabrication project, and one of these is the type of metal being used. While there are several ways to split up metals within such conversations, one of the most common and useful in many situations is categorizing them based on ferrous versus non-ferrous properties.

At Cypress Metals, we’re proud to offer the best metal fabrication and laser cutting services in Salt Lake City and nearby areas, offering products ranging from custom metal fascia to roof packages, accessories and more. In this two-part blog series, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about ferrous versus non-ferrous metals — what this term means, some examples of each, and why you should be considering one or the other for your project needs.

Basic Differences

At the core of the differences between ferrous and non-ferrous metals is the presence, or lack thereof, of iron. Ferrous metals contain at least some level of iron, while non-ferrous metals do not. This is the key distinction that separates these two types of metals from one another.

There are a few key reasons for why this difference matters. For one, it makes ferrous metals more prone to rust and corrosion than non-ferrous metals. This is because the iron in ferrous metals can oxidize and break down over time when exposed to certain conditions, like water or air. Non-ferrous metals, on the other hand, are more resistant to these sorts of conditions.

The presence of iron in ferrous metals also gives them a stronger magnetic pull than non-ferrous metals. This is due to the fact that iron is a naturally magnetic element. This difference can be useful in certain applications where magnets are needed, or where metals need to resist being pulled by a magnet.

Finally, ferrous metals are generally heavier and harder than non-ferrous metals. This is again due to the presence of iron, which makes these metals more dense.

Both Have Uses in Metal Fabrication

Both ferrous and non-ferrous metals have their own unique properties and uses, which is why both are often employed in metal fabrication projects.

Ferrous metals, for example, are well-suited for applications where strength and durability are key. This is because these metals are heavier and harder than non-ferrous metals, making them more resistant to wear and tear. They’re often used in construction projects, as well as in the manufacturing of machinery and equipment.

Meanwhile, non-ferrous metals are often chosen for applications where corrosion resistance is important. This is because these metals are less prone to rusting than ferrous metals. They’re often used in the fabrication of outdoor furniture and signage, as well as in the food and beverage industry.

So, which type of metal is right for your project? In our next blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some specific ferrous and non-ferrous metals to help you make an informed decision.

For more on this, or to learn about any of our SLC metal fabrication, laser cutting or related services, speak to the team at Cypress Metals today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some of the key properties of stainless steel that often makes it perfect for metal fabrication projects. While several different metals can be used in this process, stainless steel offers several advantages that make it especially useful for many needs in this realm.

At Cypress Metals, we’re here to offer a wide range of metal fabrication and laser cutting services, with product areas ranging from siding and wall panels through roof packages, accessories and more. What are some other main reasons why stainless steel is so beneficial for many metal fab projects? Here are several.

Ease in Fabrication Jobs

So long as the fabricator in question is working with up-to-date equipment, stainless steel is fairly easy to work with in terms of the fabrication process. It can be cut, formed and welded without too much difficulty, so the overall process from start to finish tends to be shorter when using this material.

In addition, there are few if any prep steps required prior to beginning the job. For instance, with carbon steel, it’s often necessary to remove scale and Rust Inhibitors (RIs) before starting. This is not the case with stainless.

Heat Resistance

We already talked about corrosion resistance in part one of our series, but that’s not the only key property that makes stainless ideal for certain projects. It’s also quite heat resistant, meaning it can be used in a wide range of environments and applications.

This is especially important in industries such as food preparation, where high temperatures are often a regular part of the process. It’s common for stainless steel to be used in everything from commercial kitchens to outdoor BBQs.

Long-Term Value

Due to some of what we’ve already gone over – namely the fact that it’s resistant to both corrosion and heat – stainless steel tends to have a very long lifespan. This means that, in many cases, it’s actually a more cost-effective choice in the long run than other materials that might need to be replaced more frequently.

Compared to, say, aluminum or even some types of carbon steel, stainless is often able to withstand the elements and other damaging factors for a much longer period of time. As such, it can be a wise investment for both businesses and individuals alike.

There are many different reasons why stainless steel might be the best choice for your next metal fabrication project. To learn more about this material or to get started with a quote, be sure to contact Cypress Metals today.

There are a number of metals that may be utilized within the metal fabrication process, and one that sometimes doesn’t get its just due is stainless steel. Some of this stems from prior generations, where fabricating stainless steel was a bit more difficult than it is today — but in modern times, stainless steel offers numerous specific benefits and should be strongly considered as a material for various fabrication needs.

At Cypress Metals, we work with a number of different metals for our fabrication services, which are utilized by clients for everything from chimneys and cupolas to bay window covers and numerous other needs. In this two-part blog series, we’ll go over some of the basics on why stainless steel is so beneficial for many fabrication projects, and why you should consider it.

Corrosion Resistance

First and foremost, because of the high chromium content within stainless steel, it offers natural corrosion resistance. This is one of the key reasons why it’s often utilized in food service and medical applications, where cleanliness and preventing the spread of germs and bacteria is essential.

Additionally, unlike some other metals that may offer corrosion resistance (such as aluminum), stainless steel can withstand a wide range of temperatures and still maintain that resistance.

Aesthetic Appeal

Another big selling point for stainless steel is the fact that it offers a clean, polished look. This makes it ideal for applications where appearance is important, such as in architecture or retail settings.

Additionally, because it’s so easy to keep clean, stainless steel can help give the impression of a well-maintained facility — even if it’s not being regularly cleaned! For large facilities where maintenance staff may not be able to clean every nook and cranny on a daily basis, stainless steel can help give the impression of a clean environment.

Full Recyclability

For many businesses, individuals and other entities, the theme of sustainability is important. Fortunately, stainless steel is fully recyclable — meaning that when the time comes to replace it, the old material can be melted down and reused in other applications.

Additionally, because stainless steel doesn’t corrode or break down over time, it can last for decades without needing to be replaced. This means that once you’ve invested in stainless steel products, you likely won’t need to replace them for many years (if not decades), further reducing your environmental impact.

There are many other reasons why stainless steel is such a beneficial product for fabrication needs — but these are some of the key ones. In our next blog post, we’ll go over a few other areas to consider here. To learn more about this or any of our custom metal fabrication, laser cutting or other services, speak to the pros at Cypress Metals today.

Did you know that April is National Welding Month? It’s true, and this is a time of year where we can appreciate welding professionals everywhere — people who play a major role in a number of different processes, one of which is metal fabrication.

At Cypress Metals, we’re proud to offer the very best metal fabrication services in Utah, helping with products from range hoods and cupolas to post caps, window covers and more. What is the important role of welding in metal fabrication, and what are some of the simple processes used to carry it out? Here’s a simple rundown.

Welding Within Metal Fabrication

There are some who simply think welding and metal fabrication are the same thing, but this isn’t accurate. Rather, welding is one process that’s used within the fabrication process. It generally involves using heat and pressure to join two pieces of metal together, and there are a few different types of welding that can be employed in this context.

The Different Types of Welding

There are three primary types of welding used in metal fabrication:

• MIG welding, which is a semi-automatic or automatic process that’s often used for larger projects
• TIG welding, which is a more precise manual process often used for thinner metals or metals that are difficult to weld
• Stick welding, which is a manual process using an electrode that’s melted to join the two pieces of metal

Of these, MIG welding is the most commonly used in the metal fabrication process.

Specific Processes or Techniques

A number of different processes or techniques may be used by welders within metal fabrication, including (but not limited to) the following:

• Finishing
• Die cutting
• Roll forming
• Punching
• Stamping
• Blanking

These processes or techniques will generally be used to create the desired shape from a piece of metal before it’s welded to another.

Safety Equipment and Precautions

Because welding is generally done with high heat and pressure, it’s important for those carrying out this process to take proper safety precautions. This generally includes wearing gloves, a welding helmet and other protective clothing, as well as ensuring that the area is well-ventilated. Hearing protection is another common precaution, as the noise generated by welding can be quite loud.

In addition, many welders who do this job regularly will also take welding classes to ensure they’re up-to-date on the latest safety procedures. These classes can also teach them new techniques that they can use in their work.

Risks of Poor Welding Quality

It’s vital for metal fabrication welders to carry out their work with precision and care, as poor welding quality can lead to a number of risks. This includes the risk of metal fatigue, which is when the metal becomes weaker and more brittle over time due to being placed under too much stress. Poor welding quality can also lead to cracking, warping or other damage that can cause the metal to break or fail.

This is why, at Cypress Metals, we only work with the very best welders in the business. Our team has years of experience and takes great pride in their work, ensuring that every project is carried out to the highest standards. For more on this or any of our metal fabrication, laser cutting or other services for Utah clients, speak to the team at Cypress Metals today.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on the value of metal-cut signs for many businesses and entities. Precision metal cutting with lasers is used for numerous applications across various industries, and creating quality signage is just one of them.

At Cypress Metals, we’re here to offer the very best laser precision metal cutting services available in Utah, providing clients with several different possible applications — including signage. What are some of the other reasons why metal signage is a top consideration for many business owners and others who need signs? Here are some basics to consider.

Compatibility and Applications

Many signs sit in conditions that require very high levels of damage resistance and durability, and in some cases metal is the only material that can meet these needs. Other materials may not be as weather-resistant, durable, or long lasting as metal signage. In addition, metal signage is often the most visible and legible type of signage in a variety of conditions.

For this reason, you often see custom metal signs in specific applications where others will not do. Many companies in the transportation realm, for instance, will often use metal signs for things like directional signage, for identifying parking areas, and for other needs. These signs need to be highly visible and able to stand up to a lot of wear and tear — making them the ideal option in many cases.

Other areas where they’re often used include aerospace and agriculture, both of which have conditions that are tough on signs. If you need a sign that will last for years in any environment and still look great, metal is often the best way to go.

Different Types of Metals

You also have different options when it comes to the type of metal used for your sign. Different metals offer different looks and levels of durability, and you can choose the one that will work best for your needs.

For instance, aluminum is a common choice for signage because it is durable and has a clean look. It’s also non-magnetic, so it won’t be affected by magnets or other magnetic fields. Steel is another popular option because it is very durable and can be recycled easily. Stainless steel is a good choice for areas that are humid or salty, as it won’t rust like other metals can.

Limited Maintenance Requirements

Finally, especially when compared to other common sign materials like wood or plastic, metal signage requires very little in the way of ongoing maintenance. While it’s still a good idea to clean it periodically and check for damage, most metal signs will last for years without any need for special care.

When you’re looking for a sign that will last long and look great no matter what, laser-cut metal is likely your best bet. For more on our laser cutting or press brake services, or to learn about any of our other metal fabrication solutions, speak to the team at Cypress Metals today.

There are certain manufacturing processes that are incredibly versatile in their potential scope, and a good example here is laser metal cutting. Precision metal cutting is a need across dozens of different industries and applications, and one particular product type it’s useful for — one that cuts across several industries — is signage.

At Cypress Metals, we’re proud to offer the very best laser metal cutting services in SLC and other parts of Utah, producing quality metal products that accommodate every client need. We’ve created products for clients across a wide swath of industries, including metal signage for a variety of companies and their specific needs. What are some of the top reasons clients prefer laser-cut metal signage for their businesses? Here are several across this two-part blog series.

Completely Customizable

Our laser cutting services utilize cutting-edge automated cutting technology that allows for a wide range of materials to be cut, including aluminum, stainless steel, brass, and many other types of metals. This means that any shape or design can be quickly machined out to your exact specifications; every product is one-of-a-kind in its own way. Whether you need classic geometry for a soaring eagle emblem or custom font for your restaurant’s logo, our laser-cutting services can provide it for you.

On top of this, our machines can also remove additional interior material from metal for various decorative effects, a process known as carving. This allows you to remove certain parts of your design from the metal product itself, creating a raised look that mimics 3D objects or other effects.

Our laser cutting services utilize technology that allows for a wide range of materials to be cut, including aluminum, stainless steel, brass, and many other types of metals. This means that any shape or design can be quickly machined out to your exact specifications; every product is one-of-a-kind in its own way.

Fantastic Durability

Another major benefit of laser-cut metal signs is that once they’re created, they’re incredibly durable. They naturally resist a number of contaminants and environmental conditions that affect metal, and especially outdoor signage. Our laser cutting services produce signs that resist chemical corrosion and discoloration from the weather, including sun exposure and harsh storms.

And if you want to increase this level of protection even further, that’s easy to do. There are ways to seal your graphics beneath a layer of aluminum or some other metal, for instance, creating an impenetrable barrier that keeps both the surface of the sign and its contents safe from damage.

For more on why many businesses default to laser-cut metal signage for all their sign needs, both inside and outside, or to learn about any of our laser cutting, metal fabrication or other related solutions, contact the pros at Cypress Metals today.