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Celebrating 30 Years of Success: Liberty Aluminum’s Epic Company Picnic

A significant milestone calls for a celebration that will be remembered for years to come. Liberty Aluminum, a leading player in the SWFL construction industry, recently commemorated its 30th anniversary with a company picnic that was nothing short of spectacular. The event, attended by employees and their families, was a day filled with laughter, delicious food, and exhilarating field games, creating memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

To ensure everyone’s taste buds were satisfied, Liberty Aluminum partnered with Famous Dave’s BBQ for catering. The aroma of sizzling brisket, mouth-watering Georgia chopped pork, and cornbread was an unforgettable feast. But of course, we had to have our traditional sheet cake embellished with the Liberty Aluminum logo. Delicious! 

The Liberty Aluminum company picnic embraced the spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition with a range of exciting field games. Laughter echoed across the picnic grounds as teams participated in the classic water balloon toss, 3-legged race and egg race. Greg and his son won every game but second place was always an exciting toss up. 

Thank you to all who have contributed to our success these past 30 years; and thank you to leadership for steering us towards our vision of creating an environment where people can enjoy earning a living. 

Here’s to the next 30 years!

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Carports: Why You Should Consider them for your Multifamily Community.

 

Condo Community with Multiple Carports

 

Aluminum carports can provide apartment complexes with a variety of benefits, including cost-effectiveness, durability, convenience, and compliance with local regulations.

Cost-Effectiveness:

Aluminum is the most cost-effective material to make a carport. At Liberty Aluminum we sell roll form carports because they are less expensive and last longer in the Florida climate. Roll Form carports consist of interlocking aluminum pans with a surrounding edge for protection. 

Durability:

Aluminum carports are highly resistant to corrosion and weather damage, making them a durable and long-lasting option. This means that the carports will require minimal maintenance and can last for many years. Regular inspections from your property managers or facility maintenance managers are advised to make sure the structure hasn’t been damaged. After all, residents may cause damage to the carports with their vehicles. 

Convenience:

Carports provide convenient covered parking for residents, which can be a significant benefit in Florida summers when it rains or when it is a very hot day. Carports can help to improve resident satisfaction and retention.

Compliance:

In some areas, local regulations may require apartment complexes to provide covered parking for their residents. Aluminum carports can be a cost-effective and efficient way to comply with these regulations and avoid potential fines or legal issues. 

Do you like what you see?

If you are in the market for high-quality carport for your community, let our team at Liberty Aluminum Co. to get your project started. Give us a call at 239-369-3000

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How Much Do You Know About Glass Railing?

 

Now that’s a view worth protecting!

 

Are you considering glass railing for your project? Check out the information below…

 

History of Glass Railing:

Even though glass railing has a contemporary look it has been around for a long time. The first patent for glass rail technology appeared in the late 1960s and became a mainstream addition to the building codes in the 1980s. Glass railing has become a popular alternative to traditional mechanical rail, cable rail, and welded rail because of its contemporary design. Glass railing is used in commercial and residential structures. Due to the technology and engineering required, it is not the least expensive option for your design, but it will offer the best view.

Construction of Glass Railing:

Traditional glass railing includes a glass baluster, secured into a base and a top rail. The top rail offers protection against falls should the glass panels break. Glass Railing has load requirements just as any railing would, 200-pound concentrated load and a separate load case of 50-pound-per-foot uniform load applied perpendicular to the top of the guard, to uphold safety.

Top Railing Exception:

As technology has progressed glass railing can now exclude a top rail, the International Building Code (IBC) released an exception to the top rail requirement. If a glass baluster is laminated and has been impact-tested to be used as a barrier in compliance with ASTM standard 2353 (The American Society for Testing and Materials), then a top rail isn’t a requirement. Now architects have the option to have a completely transparent design.

Do you like what you see?

Liberty Aluminum added glass railing to their offerings over 10 years ago. Since then Liberty Aluminum has completed dozens of beautiful glass railings for resorts and waterfront homes. If you are in the market for high-quality glass railing for your next project, let our team at Liberty Aluminum Co. make your dream a reality today. Give us a call at 239-369-3000

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Mechanical Railing: Knowing Your Style Options

 

Mechanical railing is popular because it is cost-effective and durable. However, not everyone is aware of the variety of styles you can choose from to fit the aesthetic of your space. Starting with the most obvious feature, color options for mechanical railing are black, bronze, and white.

Your next style option is the top cap which is the piece people hold onto when walking (see image below). Top caps come in different shapes such as “HR-1” which looks like a “mushroom”. The most popular is the “bread loaf” style because it is a standard arch that fits easily in most hands, referred to as “HR-14”. A cross between the two is “HR-10” which looks like a wider arch. This is seen as a middle option that adds more interest to your railing but isn’t as larger as the “HR-1” or “mushroom” style.

But what about the middle? Mechanical rail base models come with ¾” or 1” pickets depending on the height of your fence. At Liberty Aluminum we care about quality and safety, so we use 1” pickets in our standard design. Finally, to make your railing unique, consider adding a top channel, fleur-de-lis, spears, or circles.

After you make your selections all pickets are secured into a bottom channel and ready for installation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you have a fence that needs replacing? Call Liberty Aluminum or email pictures and dimensions to bids@libertyaluminum.com

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Why Should You Consider Cable Railing?

Cable railing systems have become increasingly popular as they offer several benefits including:

  1. Unobstructed views: Cable railings are typically made of thin, high-strength wires that are stretched between posts. This design allows for unobstructed views, making cable railings an ideal choice for properties with scenic views or outdoor living spaces that require a clear line of sight.
  2. Low maintenance: Cable railings are made of durable materials that require little maintenance. They can be easily cleaned with soap and water.
  3. Safety: Cable railings offer a high level of safety, as the thin cable is a barrier that can prevent falls and injuries.
  4. Contemporary design: Cable railings have a sleek and modern design that can complement any architectural style. They can be customized with different types of posts, finishes, and cable patterns to suit the design aesthetic of the property.
  5. Durability: Cable railings are made of high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or aluminum, which are resistant to rust and corrosion.

 

Fun Fact: The job pictured above was the 2020 Winner of the “Aluminum Association of Florida Award of Excellence” 1st Place – Railings

If your blueprints include cable rail or any aluminum railing, give Liberty Aluminum a call.

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Welded Gates: The Crown Jewel of your Property

A homeowner may want to add a welded gate to their luxury home for several reasons:

 

Security: A welded gate provides an added layer of security to a home by creating a physical barrier that can deter intruders and prevent unauthorized access. Our welded gates are typically made of Aluminum which makes the gate strong but also difficult to breach. Strong materials also make the product very durable.

Privacy: A welded gate can also provide privacy by blocking the view of the property from outsiders. This can be especially important for homeowners who live in densely populated areas or who have neighbors in close proximity.

Aesthetics: A well-designed and professionally installed welded gate can enhance the curb appeal of a property and add value to a home. Welded gates can be customized to match the style of a home and can be finished in a variety of colors and textures to complement the surrounding landscape. Gates can be powder coated from a wide variety of colors and your salesman will have swatches for you to view.

Convenience: A welded gate can also provide convenience by allowing homeowners to control who enters their property. Automated gates can be operated with remote controls, keypads, or even smartphone apps, allowing homeowners to open and close the gate without leaving their car.

 

Overall, a welded gate is a worthwhile investment for homeowners who prioritize security, privacy, aesthetics, and convenience. It can improve the functionality and appearance of a property, while also providing peace of mind and protection for the homeowner and their family.

Contact Liberty Aluminum with your property details to get your design started and receive a free estimate.

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Maintenance of Metal Components

Maintenance of Metal Components

 

Iron oxidation, commonly referred to as rust, is a chemical reaction that is produced when oxygen in the air reacts with iron. Our atmospheric conditions in Florida are ideal for the formation of this corrosive reaction. In addition to oxygen, moisture, sodium chloride ions and salt laden air attacks steel immediately upon exposure. These metallic components will rust and corrode and are not covered by any warranty. It is imperative that a monthly inspection and maintenance program be established to ensure that those metals are completely sealed from moisture and salts. The following lists several of the metal components which will require inspection and maintenance throughout your installation:

  1. Sheet Metal Screws
  2. Eyebolts of Cable Tie Downs
  3. Concrete Anchors
  4. Other Misc. Fasteners

 

There are numerous products on the market which will treat and prevent rust. If rusting conditions are present, treat immediately by the following general guidelines:

  1. Remove all Rust by the use of wire wheels, wire brushes, sandpaper. NOTE: Any rust not removed will continue to corrode underneath coating system
  1. Wipe down the prepared surface to remove residues, dust, and grease.
  1. Apply a rust inhibitive primer following the product installation instructions.
  1. Apply two coats of the prescribed finish coat

Maintenance programs which institute periodic cleaning of dirt, grime and salt spray, with mild household detergents, form metals exposed to our corrosive atmosphere provide a well maintained appearance and extend the life of these surfaces for many years to come.

Paint specification requirements vary on each installation, therefore it is recommended to become familiar with the type paint utilized to coat the metal on your installation. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please contact a Liberty Aluminum representative.

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Metal Railing Posts Anchored into Concrete Floors

Metal Railing Posts Anchored onto or into Concrete Floors

The purpose of this Technical Topic Bulletin is to advise you how to maintain anchorage of metal railing posts.

Many metal railings on stairways, walkways and balconies are secured in place by having the posts extend into the concrete floor. The area around the post is filled with a high strength, quick setting grout (cement).

These post penetrations into the concrete floor are not maintenance free and must be inspected on a regular basis for cracks, which may develop between the post and the grout or within the grout itself. These cracks are created by the movement of the posts from expansion, contraction and normal use.

If cracks go unnoticed or not repaired, water will enter the cracks causing deterioration of the grout, which may cause posts to become loose. Prolonged exposure to water may even damage the post and the surrounding concrete floor.

Never place carpet or tile over the grout area as this will create additional problems, and you will not be able to readily examine the area.

If  you suspect that your rail posts need re-anchoring, the grout around the post should be chipped out, the hole and post cleaned, and new high strength cement poured into the hole, crowned at the top. Recently, local waterproofing companies have been using epoxy materials in lieu of cement to secure posts. You may wish to contact several for quotes for this type of repair. If you have further questions or need additional information contact a Liberty Aluminum representative.

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Protection of Aluminum Frames

Protection of Aluminum Frames

Initially, it is imperative that any applied floor or wall covering be installed without covering any of the aluminum framing. Special care must be maintained to prevent any material used in the floor and wall coating process to come in contact with the screen rail enclosure components. Warning: Tile or other cementitious products in contact with aluminum may cause corrosion of the aluminum. This condition will void warranties on aluminum products.

It is recommended that all aluminum installations be protected from the direct exposure to concrete and other similar cementitious product. Warning: Installation of tile or other cementitious products adjacent to aluminum will cause discoloration of the aluminum. Whenever these materials are required to be in close proximity, it is mandatory that PVC angle tile stop be installed to separate the two dissimilar materials. All warranties on aluminum products are void if in a contact with cementitious products such as grout. See recommended PVC tile stop detail for railing posts, screen enclosures, and storm shutter assemblies. Installation of the tile stop will also allow for proper drainage through weep holes located at the base of screen enclosures. Do not allow the installation of sealant between tile termination and enclosure weep system.

If there are any questions concerning this information, please do not hesitate to call our Customer Service Department.

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Cleaning Procedures For Screen Enclosures and Aluminum Railings

Cleaning Procedures For Screen Enclosures and Aluminum Railings

The purpose of this Technical Topic Bulletin is to give suggestions on how to maintain aluminum railings and screen enclosures. These surfaces should be cleaned every six months at a minimum.

Summary of General Cleaning Tips

  1. Over cleaning or excessive rubbing can do more harm than good.
  2. Strong solvents or strong cleaner concentrations can cause damage to painted surfaces. Always use the mildest cleaner possible.
  3. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Do not use household cleaners that contain abrasives on painted surfaces.
  4.  Abrasive materials such as steel wool, abrasive brushes, etc. can wear and harm finishes.
  5. Avoid drips and splashes. Remove run downs as quickly as possible.
  6. Avoid temperature extremes. Heat accelerates chemical reactions and may evaporate water from solution. Extremely low temperatures may give poor cleaning effects. Cleaning under adverse conditions may result in streaking or straining. Ideally, cleaning should be done in shade at moderate temperature.
  7. Do not substitute a heavy-duty cleaner for a frequently used milder cleaner.
  8. Do not scour painted surfaces.
  9. Never use paint removers, aggressive alkaline, acid or abrasive cleaners. Do not use chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate or highly acid cleaners. Always do a test surface.
  10. Follow manufacturers recommendations for mixing and
  11. diluting cleaners.
  12. Never mix cleaners.
  13. To prevent marring, make sure cleaning sponges, cloth, etc. are grit free.
  14. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”.

To read the full Cleaning Procedures For Screen Enclosures and Aluminum Railings technical paper, please click here.

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National Ornamental and Miscellaneous Metals Association

www.nomma.org/

 

Trade association. Members fabricate everything from railings and driveway gates to structural and industrial products.

NFIB: Small Business Association

www.nfib.com/

 

NFIB is America's leading small business association, promoting & protecting the right of our members to own, operate and grow their businesses.