CUSTOM DRIVEWAY AND SIDE GATE INSTALLATION FOR ABIGAIL J.

Isaac's Ironworks did beautiful work. Before calling them, I reviewed their website, and saw an impressive array of work samples, in many styles, all constructed elegantly and professionally. I then called them, and spoke to the owner Isaac Yuhuda, who offered to meet me at my convenience: His shop was very close to our house.

 

When we did meet, I found a gregarious, knowledgeable man who exuded enthusiasm and interest in our projects. We spent time together looking at various styles, materials and types of fencing and gates around my neighborhood, so he could get a sense of my taste, and the overall look of the homes on, and around our street.

 

I wanted a slight curve to a fence, with a gate in the middle, to enclose a small patio, as well as a gate between the driveway and a walkway to the back of the house. He listened as I explained my design ideas, and understood them immediately. We spent time experimenting with the degree of the fence curve, given the two points the fence would bridge, and the space it was enclosing.

 

For the gates, we originally thought we would go with a fairly traditional design of simple scrollwork over a metal backing for both doors. But, after a walk in West Hollywood one evening, we happened upon an iron door with a design we really liked, one that had an art deco look to it. I called Isaac to explain the desired change, and sent him a photo of the door.

 

He was happy to do the changes, and came over the next day to show me a pencil sketch of the new design, that looked exactly like the door we’d photographed. The work came out exactly as the design; kudos should also go to his associate Mynor who, I understand actually prepared the design and forged the iron. Isaac also offered suggestions for the fencing section of the patio, several options along the spectrum of full privacy to open railings.

 

We decided on mesh gate panels that were black steel metal with small round "Swiss dot" perforations that allowed for some view of the street, but also some privacy. It is very pretty, and looks great with the gentle curve of the fence. People who come see our new place have specifically mentioned this gated fence as a favorite component of the newly built house. After realizing that the metal door to the walkway when closing made too loud a sound, we asked Isaac to install a hydraulic arm to control and slow the shutting of the gate, making it quieter.

 

He immediately took care of it, sending his workmen over early one morning to install it. The additional charge was $200 (installed), that others who know such things told us was a fair price... The doors are primed, but for weather-proofing, will require a paint job. This was unexpected, but again, having never purchased something involving ironworks, we did not know to ask about this when the estimate was presented, though it clearly states 'black shop primer only.'

 

Because we've never had experience with ironworks, I had no idea what they should cost, hence the 4- vs 5-'bubble' rating. Maybe we could’ve found a contractor who would’ve done the work for less, but Isaac was recommend to us by our general contractor whose work we quickly came to trust, as he hired only skilled and pro subs.

 

It seems to have been money well spent. Not only is the quality of the work excellent, but dealing with everyone at Isaac's has been a pleasure. They are extremely accommodating, friendly, fun, and KIND! Those may not be important characteristics to some people, but for us they are big pluses.

 

It's stressful enough building or renovating a home, with money constantly going OUT, so it helps to work with understanding, professional and personable contractors. We highly recommend Isaac's Ironworks for any ironwork you may need, or have in mind.