At Mansilla Architectural Metals, selecting the right metal joining method is critical to ensuring long-term strength, performance, and code compliance. Whether for structural steel, aluminum panels, or detailed architectural elements, we apply the right process based on the jobsite requirements, materials involved, and end-use conditions. Below is a breakdown of how welding, brazing, and soldering differ — and where each technique fits within professional metal fabrication.
Welding – Strong, Structural Joints for Load-Bearing Applications:
Welding permanently joins metal by heating the base materials to their melting point, often with the addition of filler metal. Once cooled, the two pieces become a single fused component, ideal for structural or high-stress applications.
Welding is essential in commercial and residential construction projects, including:
- Stair systems and railing supports
- Structural steel frames
- Canopies, mezzanines, and framing assemblies
- Brackets and fabricated steel connections
Our shop uses several industry-standard techniques:
- TIG welding – for precision work on stainless and aluminum
- MIG welding – for faster fabrication of carbon and mild steel
- Stick welding – for heavy-gauge materials and structural welds
Each method is selected based on metal thickness, finish requirement, and load-bearing needs — ensuring every weld meets strength and inspection standards.
Brazing – Clean Finishes for Dissimilar Metals and Tubing Work:
Brazing joins two close-fitting metal parts using a filler metal with a lower melting point than the base metals. Unlike welding, the base materials remain solid — only the filler melts and flows via capillary action.
This technique is ideal for:
- Joining dissimilar metals without warping
- Tubing and pipe assemblies
- Heat exchangers and HVAC brackets
- Areas where heat control and clean finishes matter
Because brazing doesn’t alter the base metal’s structure, it’s often used in assemblies that require dimensional accuracy, corrosion resistance, or minimal visual disruption. It’s also suitable for delicate fabrications that can’t withstand the heat of welding.
Soldering – Low-Heat Bonding for Precision Components:
Soldering is similar to brazing but uses a filler metal that melts at much lower temperatures (typically below 840°F). It’s not used for structural components, but excels in fine-detail, low-load applications.
We use soldering for:
- Clean joints in thin-gauge metal assemblies
- Decorative panels and architectural trim
- Electronics enclosures and light-duty frames
- Custom finishes where minimal distortion is essential
Because soldering preserves surface finish and prevents warping, it’s often used in laser-cut signage, sheet metal detailing, and other components where aesthetic appearance is as important as function.
While all three methods – welding, brazing, and soldering – are used for joining metals, the choice of which method to use depends on the materials involved, the intended use of the item, and the required strength of the joint. Welding provides the strongest joints and is suitable for structural applications. Brazing is useful for joining dissimilar metals and for applications where the appearance of the joint is important. Soldering is ideal for delicate or heat-sensitive applications.
At Mansilla Architectural Metals, we evaluate every project through a construction lens — factoring in material type, load requirements, installation environment, and finish quality. From structural welding to precision brazing and soldering, we select the right joining method to meet your project’s specifications and deliver a durable, code-compliant result.
If it needs to be strong, clean, and built to last — we build it to spec.
