Made-to-Measure Stainless Work for Site-Specific Jobs
Custom fabrication is for jobs that do not suit off-the-shelf parts. That might be a balustrade with a change in level, a gate frame that needs to match an older opening, a handrail around steps, or a marine fitting that has to handle salt air and regular washdown. We fabricate in stainless steel for homes, body corporates, builders, marine sites and commercial properties from Knysna through to George and Mossel Bay.
Most items are made in 304 stainless for general inland and sheltered coastal use, while 316 stainless is normally better for exposed coastal conditions, pools and marine areas. We also help with thickness selection, fixing points and practical details like drainage, access panels and where a weld line should be hidden. If a piece must carry load, fit a glass panel, or line up with existing work, we plan that from the start so it does not become a site problem later.
- Balustrade components and support posts
- Handrails and stair rails
- Gate frames, latches and support brackets
- Marine brackets, rails and repair parts
- Custom trims, covers and fittings
What We Include in the Fabrication Process
Our workshop process starts with the dimensions, access and end use. If needed, we do site measuring in Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Sedgefield, Wilderness or George so the item is made to the actual opening, not just the drawing. From there we prepare shop drawings, confirm material type, then cut, bend, weld, linish and assemble the item in our Knysna Industria base.
Before an item leaves the workshop, we check the alignment, finish and fixing points. For polished work, we aim for a cleaner reflective look. For brushed finishes, we keep the grain consistent so repairs and later additions dont stand out. Where glass is included, we can fit the glass panels and hardware. Where a gate or access item needs locks, hinges or stops, we install the hardware and test movement before loading.
- Site measuring and confirmation of dimensions
- Shop drawings for approval where required
- Cutting, forming, welding and finishing
- Dry fit and final check before dispatch
- Onsite installation or supply only, depending on the job
Turnaround Times That Suit Real Building Schedules
Turnaround depends on the size of the piece, the amount of welding, whether glass or hardware is included, and how busy the site is. Small repair parts or simple brackets can often move quickly, while full balustrade runs, gates or marine fitouts need more time for measuring, fabrication and scheduling installation.
As a guide, smaller custom items may be completed in a few working days once drawings and materials are approved. More involved jobs usually take one to three weeks, and larger or phased projects may take longer if they depend on other trades. We keep clients updated if a site opens late, if concrete is still curing, or if access is only possible after a handover. That matters in coastal towns where weather, load shedding and contractor sequencing can all affect the plan.
Where there is a deadline, tell us early. We can often split work into sections, fabricate in batches or hold items for a specific install date so the site team is not waiting around.
Pricing Based on Material, Time and Fixing Detail
Custom fabrication is priced from the actual job details, not a standard list. The main factors are stainless grade, material thickness, length, number of bends or welds, surface finish, site access and whether the work needs glass fitment or hardware fitment. A straight handrail is priced differently to a curved balustrade with multiple returns and post bases.
We are happy to quote from drawings, photos and measurements, but the most accurate pricing comes after a site measure or a clear set of dimensions. For repair work, we assess whether the existing piece can be restored, reworked or needs partial replacement. That often saves money compared with starting again. On coastal sites we also look at fixing methods and drainage so you dont end up replacing a part sooner than expected.
- Material grade and wall thickness
- Length, height and number of fabricated sections
- Finish type, polished or brushed
- Hardware, glass and installation requirements
- Access, lifting and travel to site
Finishes, Specs and Coastal Suitability
We fabricate for both appearance and durability. Polished stainless suits feature items where a brighter finish is wanted, while brushed stainless is often used where a lower-reflection look is preferred or where the item will be handled regularly. In Knysna and the wider coast, the right finish and material choice matters because humidity and salt carry farther than many people expect.
Typical fabrication specs depend on the application, but common work includes tube handrails in 38 mm to 50 mm outside diameter, flat bar frames, plate brackets from 3 mm upward, and support posts sized to suit the load and span. For balustrades and handrails, we also consider fixing centres, anchor type and hand clearance. On marine jobs, we may specify extra drainage, fewer dirt traps and cleaner transitions so the item is easier to rinse and maintain.
If the item will be near a pool, on a seafront property, or exposed to spray, we usually suggest a maintenance plan from the start. It costs less to clean and inspect a fitting than to let tea staining or trapped moisture build up in a corner.
Maintenance Intervals for Long-Term Performance
Stainless still needs care, especially in coastal towns like Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness and Mossel Bay. We recommend a basic washdown with fresh water and a mild cleaner every 4 to 8 weeks on exposed work, then a more detailed inspection every 6 to 12 months. That is the time to check fasteners, brackets, hinge movement and any signs of staining around welds or joints.
For interior or sheltered work, maintenance can be less frequent, but it should still be checked after building dust, plaster work or paint overspray. If a gate starts rubbing, a handrail loosens or a polished surface gets marked, early attention usually prevents bigger damage. We can also carry out maintenance checks and surface restoration where a piece needs cleaning, re-linishing or local repair instead of full replacement.
- Rinse exposed stainless with fresh water regularly
- Inspect fixings and joints at least twice a year
- Clean around welds and crevices where dirt collects
- Report movement, rust staining or loose fittings early
Where We Work and How to Start
Our workshop is based in Knysna Industria and we serve clients across Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Sedgefield, Wilderness, George and Mossel Bay. We work with builders, homeowners, body corporates, lodge managers and marine operators who need one-off items or repeat fabrication for maintenance and upgrades.
To get started, send through your measurements, photos or plans to projects@sisonkemanufacturing.co.za. If the job needs a site visit, we can arrange that and confirm the practical details before production starts. From there we move through measurement, drawings, fabrication and installation, keeping the process simple and clear. If you need a made-to-measure stainless part that fits first time, this is the service for it.
Key facts
| Material grades | 304 stainless for general use, 316 stainless for exposed coastal and marine areas |
|---|---|
| Finish options | Polished or brushed stainless |
| Typical tube sizes | 38 mm to 50 mm outside diameter for handrails and support rails |
| Plate thickness | Commonly 3 mm and up, depending on load and fixing detail |
| Service area | Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Sedgefield, Wilderness, George and Mossel Bay |
| Base | Knysna Industria workshop with onsite installation available |
