When you order quality custom ductwork, you must consider which fabricator to trust with your project. Don’t just work with a shop that makes adjustments to stock fabrications. Instead, consider working with a shop that specializes in custom fittings. Here are some things to consider when ordering custom ductwork:
When you order custom ductwork consider turnaround time
How quickly can your shop fabricate your custom fittings and welded ductwork? Make sure to work with a custom ductwork fabrication shop that prides itself on exceptional turnaround time. If the “one stop shop” tells you that your custom project may take weeks to produce, consider working with a smaller shop that specializes in custom fabrication like Madon Sheet Metal. You will likely be able to purchase a superior product and get it shipped to you much more quickly.
When you order custom ductwork prioritize Quality Control
Unlike “one stop shops” that focus on mass produced spiral duct or rectangular duct that comes off of a coil line, custom fabrication and welding shops have higher shop standards. Prioritize working with a fabricator that can customize each fitting to your exact specifications. You will also want to work with a shop that will work with you to catch any mistakes in your drawing before the fabrication process begins.
When you order custom ductwork understand how to get the best price for your specific job
Many project managers assume that larger shops can offer lower prices, but this not always the case. The cost of labor is almost always the most expensive aspect of your purchase and if you work with a smaller, more efficient shop that is designed to fabricate custom fittings, you may be able to purchase a superior product for less money.
When you order custom ductwork, ask about the technology that your shop uses
Consider working with a fabricator that uses the most efficient software. Currently, PractiCAM by MetaLab is the industry’s most advanced computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) estimating system for HVAC duct work. Shops that consistently update their technology will be able to give you more reliable quotes.
PractiCAM eliminated many repetitive or manual tasks in the design process. PractiCAM will also be able catch any potential mistakes in your drawing to make sure that you never need to re-order a custom fitting. Everyone can make mistakes, and you will want to work with a fabrication shop that will double check everything that you order with state of the art software.
At Madon Sheet Metal, we have upgraded our CAM department with the industry-leading PractiCAM software to better serve you.
When you order custom ductwork only work with SMACNA shops
There are many reasons to work only with sheet metal fabricators that are members of The Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA).
- In a SMACNA shop, all sheet metal workers have an extensive knowledge of every aspect of the industry, including an understanding of raw materials, fabrication, installation, testing, and balancing. Employees of SMACNA contractors must receive at least four years of training before fabricating your work.
- SMACNA is renowned for its standards development work. Despite the fact that you will pay for union labor, a shop can still be cost effective because SMACNA standards allow you to significantly reduce costs.
- The technical standards and manuals developed by SMACNA contractors are universally accepted by the construction community. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited SMACNA as a standards-setting organization.
- There are SMACNA standards for every aspect of the sheet metal industry including duct construction and installation, air pollution control, energy recovery, and roofing.
At Madon Sheet Metal, we produce exceptional fittings, superior welded ductwork, and accessories. Contact us or call us at (224) 300-7995 to learn more or get a customized quote.
