INDUSTRY EXPERTISE
Owner-Operated vs. Franchise Metal Shops — Here's the Real Difference
At Ultimate Metalworks, we go beyond standard fabrication. Our deep expertise and elite certifications allow us to handle complex structural challenges and provide unparalleled quality for your property.
Discuss Your ProjectMost metal fabrication shops in Raleigh subcontract the actual welding. You call a showroom, pick from a catalog, and a crew you've never met shows up to install. Chris Roberts does the opposite — he designs it, fabricates it in his Raleigh shop, and installs it himself. Every job.
| Feature | Ultimate Metalworks | Franchise Shops |
|---|---|---|
| Who does the work | Chris Roberts personally | Unknown subcontractor |
| Certification | 6G AWS Certified | Varies — often uncertified |
| Custom designs | Yes — any design, any material | Catalog options only |
| Warranty | Direct from fabricator | Passed through a middleman |
| Lead time | 5–14 days | 4–8 weeks |
| Price | Fair — no franchise markup | Higher — franchise overhead built in |
| Communication | Call or text Chris directly | Call center or sales rep |
If you want to know exactly who is welding the metal that goes on your home, the answer here is simple. Call Chris at 984-308-7451.
Get a Free Estimate From Chris