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Full Service Company
Insured & Accredited
Nationwide Coverage
UKCA & CE Compliant
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Bring Vision and Strength to Life with AESS

Bring your building alive, with unique and awe inspiring structural steelwork.

Imagine walking into a space where the very structure speaks of innovation, strength, and precision—where every beam and joint is a testament to cutting-edge design and craftsmanship.

We can design, manufacture and install your steelwork across the UK.

Contact us today for a quote today.

Serving the entire UK from our headquarters in Rotherham.

Examples

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riveted steel bridge
curved railway station concept
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photo of crane lifting metal structure onto warehouse
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large access platform chamberlain square
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large structural steel project
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assembly of overhead gantry chamberlain square
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Get a Quote

Contact us below to get a quote for your next project.

Our Capabilities

We cover all aspects of design, detail, manufacture, fabrication and installation.

Maximise the Value of Exposed Steelwork in Your Next Project

Incorporating steel as a prominent design and structural feature is not simply an engineering decision; it’s a statement.

Whether your goal is to create an iconic architectural landmark, improve efficiency in construction, or align with sustainable building practices, understanding the nuances of this choice ensures your project is both innovative and practical.

Here’s how to masterfully integrate these visible frameworks into your next venture.

Why Choose Exposed Steel Frames for Your Project?

1. Aesthetic Appeal Meets Functionality

Steel offers unparalleled design versatility. Its ability to support long spans without intermediate columns unlocks architectural possibilities unavailable with other materials. This is why galleries, sports complexes, and large open-plan offices often incorporate it in visible ways.

Consider the dramatic rooflines of transport hubs or the sweeping spaces within cultural centres like museums. By leaving the supporting framework exposed, these designs convey ambition, openness, and strength. Achieving this relies not just on selecting steel but on carefully choosing profiles, finishes, and connections that integrate seamlessly into your project’s broader aesthetic vision.

Expert Tip: Collaborate with your architect early to determine whether:

  • Hollow structural sections (HSS): Ideal for clean, modern aesthetics and curved designs.
  • Wide flange beams (I-beams): Perfect for industrial or utilitarian spaces requiring bold, linear elements.
  • Custom profiles: Unique shapes add visual interest and create branding opportunities for high-profile projects.

2. Exceptional Durability, Minimal Maintenance

Steel’s inherent durability makes it a natural choice for high-traffic environments, harsh climates, or industrial applications. Surface treatments tailored to the environment—such as galvanising, powder coating, or advanced corrosion-resistant finishes—enhance its longevity without sacrificing visual impact.

For instance, a coastal development featuring metal frameworks can face challenges from salt-laden air. Specifying marine-grade coatings, such as high-performance epoxy systems, preserves the clean lines of the structure over decades while addressing these challenges head-on.

Real-world Example: A warehouse project in the Midlands used polyester powder-coated steel beams, drastically reducing repainting costs while maintaining a professional appearance even in a heavy-use environment.

Planning Smart: Practical Considerations for Exposed Structures

1. Material Specifications Matter

Choosing the right grade of metal directly impacts both safety and efficiency. High-strength variants like S460 or weathering steel (such as COR-TEN) allow thinner sections without compromising load-bearing capacity. This approach not only saves material costs but also contributes to sleeker, more elegant designs.

Actionable Advice: Conduct a detailed load analysis early:

  1. Work with your structural engineer to optimise material selection.
  2. Consider whether higher-grade alloys could allow reduced section sizes, potentially cutting both material weight and transportation costs.

2. Don’t Overlook Fire Protection

Building codes often demand specific fire resistance ratings for structural systems. Intumescent coatings are a popular choice, but alternatives include concrete encasement or using natural fire-resistant alloys. Each method has implications for cost, appearance, and long-term maintenance.

Advanced Insight: During the coating specification process, consider:

  • Thickness tolerances.
  • Visual uniformity.
  • Factory-applied coatings for better quality control, especially in projects with tight aesthetic requirements.

3. Connection Details Are Key

Exposed frameworks place every detail of your structure in full view, including joints, welds, and bolted connections. Poorly executed details can undermine the entire aesthetic.

To achieve clean results:

  • Pre-fabrication is often the best solution. Precise fabrication tolerances—achieved through CNC machining—ensure that every bolt aligns perfectly, eliminating time-consuming on-site corrections.
  • Explore hybrid connection methods:
    • Welded joints for seamless, contemporary designs.
    • Bolted connections for an industrial aesthetic and easier future modifications.

Relevant British standards:

  • BS EN 10365: This standard specifies the dimensions and masses of hot rolled steel channels, I and H sections, which are commonly used in structural applications.
  • BS EN 10056: This standard outlines the specifications for structural steel equal and unequal leg angles, detailing their dimensions.
  • BS EN ISO 12944: This standard provides guidance on corrosion protection of steel structures by protective paint systems, essential for ensuring the durability of exposed steelwork.
  • BS EN ISO 14713: This standard offers guidelines and recommendations for the protection against corrosion of iron and steel in structures, focusing on zinc coatings.
  • National Structural Steelwork Specification (NSSS) for Building Construction: Published by the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA), this specification sets out the requirements for the design, fabrication, and erection of structural steelwork in building construction.
  • NHBC Standards 2025, Chapter 6.5: These standards provide guidance on steelwork, including specifications for steel grade, coatings, and fire resistance, ensuring compliance with building regulations.

Cost-Efficiency Without Compromise

Visible structural elements might seem like they increase costs, but these systems can unlock significant savings when managed strategically:

  • Prefabrication Accelerates Timelines: Modular components are manufactured off-site under controlled conditions, minimising labour-intensive processes on-site and reducing weather-related delays.
  • Less Material, More Savings: Steel’s ability to span large distances with minimal support means fewer columns and foundations, which not only frees up internal space but also cuts excavation and groundwork costs.
  • Durable Surfaces, Minimal Upkeep: Unlike timber or concrete, this material doesn’t chip, crack, or degrade easily. Periodic inspections and minor touch-ups are typically sufficient to maintain its appearance and functionality.

Case Study: A London-based mixed-use development achieved cost reductions by integrating steel beams with timber panels for floors and ceilings. This hybrid system leveraged metal’s strength while providing natural warmth internally. By using prefabricated components, the developer also slashed construction timelines by 25%.

Enhancing the Buying Experience for Your Clients

The transparency of exposed frameworks—both literally and metaphorically—tells a story of trust and precision. Buyers viewing a building’s structure directly can immediately grasp its integrity.

For instance, a tech firm designing its new headquarters could highlight exposed steel to reflect its forward-thinking and innovative culture. Clean, uncluttered structures suggest order, strength, and modernity—values that align with cutting-edge industries.


How to Find the Right Partner for Your Project

The success of a project featuring visible structural components hinges on partnering with the right professionals. From procurement to installation, your suppliers and contractors play pivotal roles.

  • Proven Expertise in Complex Projects: Ensure your supplier has a track record of delivering metalwork for architecturally ambitious buildings. Request case studies that demonstrate their ability to manage intricate designs or demanding schedules.
  • Customisation Options at Scale: Some suppliers offer unique finishes, etching, or perforation patterns that enhance the aesthetic impact of the structure.
  • Integrated Project Support: Choose partners who can provide design assistance, digital modelling (such as BIM integration), and logistical planning. This holistic approach streamlines the process, reducing the likelihood of costly errors.

Pro Tip: Establish collaborative relationships early. By involving your fabricator and installer during the design phase, you can preempt issues with feasibility, alignment, or transport logistics before they escalate into costly problems.

Client Testimonials

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Why Choose Us?

  • CHAS Advanced & Alcumus Safe Contractor Accredited: Certified for excellent health & safety practices.
  • Fully UKCA & CE Compliant: All products meet UK and European standards for quality and legal compliance.
  • Quality Assurance You Can Rely On: ISO 9001 & EN 1090 certified, with rigorous quality control at every project stage.
  • Over 30 Years of Trusted Experience: Established in 1994, delivering complex steelwork and metalwork projects to the highest standards.
  • Complete In-House Service: Design, detailing, manufacture, fabrication, and installation all under one roof.
  • Nationwide Coverage: Based in South Yorkshire, serving clients across the UK with a flexible, multiskilled workforce.
  • Highly Trained Workforce: Certified and accredited teams ensure safe, efficient, and professional project execution.
  • Family-Owned with Strong Values: Still run by the founder’s family, blending traditional values with modern capabilities.
  • Committed to Sustainability: Reducing waste, emissions, and environmental impact across all operations.
  • Always Innovating, Always Investing: Continuous investment in people, facilities, and technology for better client outcomes.

See Our Latest Projects in Action

We don’t just talk about quality – we show it.

Follow us behind the scenes as we share real project updates, on-site installations, and fabrication progress straight from our workshop and sites across the UK.

Stay connected with our latest work, insights, and company news – directly from the UIS team.

Our Process

1. Project Consultation

We begin by discussing your ideas, requirements, and goals. Whether it’s a commercial or residential project, we help shape your concept into a workable plan.

2. Design & Detailing

Our expert designers produce accurate technical drawings and detailed plans, tailored to your specifications and project needs.

3. Material Selection

We select the best materials, including mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium, and others, to meet your design, performance, and sustainability goals.

4. Manufacture & Fabrication

Using modern equipment and skilled craftsmanship, we machine and fabricate all components in-house for guaranteed precision and quality.

5. Quality Assurance

All products are checked against strict quality controls and certifications (ISO 9001, EN 1090, UKCA) to ensure compliance and reliability.

6. Delivery & Installation

Our fully trained installation teams handle logistics and fit-out on-site, safely and efficiently, meeting project deadlines.

7. Final Handover

We carry out a complete inspection, make any final adjustments, and ensure you are fully satisfied before sign-off.

8. Aftercare Support

We are available post-installation for ongoing advice, maintenance guidance, or additional project support.

Trusted for Over 30 Years

Discover why leading contractors, architects, and developers across the UK choose UIS for their most demanding projects.

Clients

We work with clients across the UK, while being based here in Rotherham.

UIS proudly delivers steelwork and metalwork solutions for clients across the UK, working in sectors including retail, education, healthcare, sports, transport, and commercial construction.

From structural steel to bespoke architectural metalwork, we help shape spaces that are functional, safe, and visually impressive. We work directly with clients, main contractors, and even provide white-label services for larger firms needing extra capacity.

Based in Yorkshire and operating nationwide, our experienced team is ready to deliver – wherever your project takes us.

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Sir Robert McAlpine

“I’ve worked with UIS for several years on some high profile and very complex projects. Their attitude and work ethic are second to none providing high quality services and products which are delivered safely and on time every time.”

“Overall they are a pleasure to do business with and wouldn’t hesitate recommending UIS for any steelwork or metalwork packages.”

Stuart Bale, Sir Robert McAlpine

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Shepworth Construction

“I’d like to take the opportunity to first and foremost thank U.I Services for their fantastic support on my recent projects!”

“As a project and managing Director myself it makes projects so much easier using these guys. We simply meet on site to discuss the job at hand. They offer a prompt quotation and I am always informed of their timescales.”

Jamie Shepherd, Shepworth Construction Limited

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MAP Engineers

“Having dealt with UIS for over six years, rarely have I come across a more pro-active company with a can do attitude and a “nothing will beat us” culture!”

“Within all aspects of the industry, whether it be Brass Balustrade, Stainless Steel Handrail, Bridges, Secondary Steel or plain and simple Portal Frames, their approach and attitude to delivering the same high quality project is always the same.”

“I cannot speak highly enough of these guys!”

Leon Hennigan, MAP Engineers Ltd

Jason, Self-Builder

“As a self-builder of an innovative Eco-home, I needed to partner with a company who offered competence, a willingness to push themselves and the resilience to stick with me during the challenging times.”

“As well as demonstrating the ability to build the metal structure of the property, they have also been able to add some creative finishing touches to my home. In doing this, they bring their solutions focused approach to convert ideas into reality.”

“This is why I trusted them to build a bespoke staircase, balcony and front gates for my house. They are down to earth, yet able to ask the tough questions when needed.”

Jason, Self-Builder

Debra, Homeowner

“I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge ‘thank you’ to Kevin and everyone at Universal Industrial Services on completion of our pavilion.”

“From chatting about the initial concept, you designed, planned, and gave endless advice on choosing the best materials and lighting which have all made it look as fabulous as it does!”

“The finished project has surpassed all my expectations and I will soon be chatting to you about my next idea.”

Debra, Homeowner

Ready to bring your project to life?

From concept to completion, we’ll deliver exceptional steelwork and metalwork tailored to your needs.

Accreditations, Approvals & Certifications

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UIS LLP has been approved by the Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme (CHAS) for our excellent management and adherence to current health and safety regulations, and is now proudly certified to the industry-recognised CHAS Elite standard.

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UIS is proud to be an accredited Alcumus SafeContractor, a mark of our unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and excellence in every project we deliver.

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UIS products proudly carry the UKCA Marking, meeting all required safety, quality, and compliance standards for Great Britain.

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All our workers hold valid CSCS cards, ensuring they meet industry standards for safety and competence on your project.

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Every project is led by a supervisor with at least an SSSTS qualification, guaranteeing professional site management and safe working practices.

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Our site teams are PASMA certified, ensuring safe and expert use of scaffolding and mobile access towers on your steelwork or balustrade installation.

Location

Universal Industrial Services

Unit F, Bramley Way, Hellaby, Rotherham, S66 8QB

07980906863

info@uiservices.co.uk

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