Rich Sheet Metal Works - Santa Monica, California

Joey B. T.

I could not believe the ridiculously rude behavior of Dave (owner of Rich Sheet Metal Works). When I arrived there was one other worker besides Dave doing ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. Literally there were no customers in the shop and they were not working/fabricating ANYTHING.

My intent in going there was to gather ideas / put a game plan together for fabricating and welding a steel rod piece that I needed for some furniture. Then after discussing what needed to be done, it was my intent to hire them to weld my parts together.

DAVE was very curt and rude. Every time I opened my mouth to speak he cut me off shouting "IT DOESN'T MATTER, it doesn't matter!!". I felt like I was being scolded and I've just walked in to the place. Literally, he would not even let me show him a picture of the product or finish my sentences. He acted like he couldn't be bothered with such a trivial request and was highly annoyed that I would have the audacity to take time out of his day to try and research my project by speaking to welders more experienced in fabrication than I am.

I might understand his protestations if they were really busy (there's just no justification) however they were just standing around doing nothing! I guess I interrupted Dave from taking out a box of opened envelopes to the trash which is the only thing he was doing when I tried to greet him.

He was rude and irritated from the second I said hello with a smile. I cannot believe the attitude of some business owners who act like they're doing you a favor by letting you come to their place of business to procure work for them.

He just did not want to be bothered and spouted off something to the effect of "I can't fabricate this part because it's proprietary!!!"....

Huh....? What on earth are you even talking about? The piece is not proprietary, it's basically a brass stud. I found one that works perfectly on Amazon for $7.

Then he started whining about he doesn't have a hollow steel rod and couldn't fabricate one and that even if he could fabricate one it would be the wrong color blah blah blah....not even letting me finish my sentence to TELL HIM that I ALEADY HAD the steel rod in the right color (also purchased on amazon for $9.89)!!!

All I was trying to do was hire a "welder" which incidentally Dave is...to weld the two parts (I ALREADY HAD) together. I would've gladly paid for the time spent as the materials were already purchased and in the mail. I couldn't relate ANY OF THIS to him because he wouldn't let me speak. He just kept barking over me until literally I was so disgusted I walked out.

I went to several welders that day and told them the story of my interaction with Dave. They all said the same thing..."I've heard he's a capable welder but very hard to work with." Amen to that... I urge potential customers to go ANYWHERE but here. You know you're in the wrong place when you come to a place of business and the first thing you get is a crusty scowl instead of a smile and a hearty "how can I help?".

Danny S.

I can't say enough about Rich Sheet Metal. At an unusual find in a town like Santa Monica, you'll find Dave Rich. One of the cleanest little shops you'll ever find. I needed a custom electric fan shroud for the radiator on my truck. Dave took on the job, no problem. Excellent communication to make sure it was right, and he's a car enthusiast on top of it; a real pleasure to talk to. I've found my new shop for all of my sheet metal needs.

Mark S.

Long standing gem in Santa Monica. Solid work, super efficient. Fabricated this door overhang in less than 24 hours! Presto⭐️

LUDIS B. A.

The fastest, accurate, price competitive and professional guys with metal I know.
Simply the best.
Thanks Dave and Rich team.

Lionel T.

This place rocks! I wanted a simple brass 3×9 1/16th inch plate and couldn't find it anywhere. Home Depot, Ace etc. Then I came across Rich Sheet Metal Works. They measured and cut same day at a very affordable price. I'm very happy with their service. They also have a very cool shop! Old school vintage machinery. Dave is super nice and helpful. Support Local!

John M. M.

I had the privilege of being a customer of Rich Sheet Metal since 1978. Dave made me a lot of money. Since moving to Florida I can’t find a shop worth a damn. Dave it was a wonderful ride with you!!!

Tom C.

I have used RSM a half dozen times for various custom fabrications. Each time the process has been perfect and Dave has taken extra care to insure he gets it correct despite my errors! The bad review I see here seems very, very odd. I have no hesitation in recommending them for you needs.

Karl W.

The only place I could find on the west side to get sheet metals of all types in thinner to moderate gauges (i.e. they don't deal in plate). Copper, stainless, steel etc. They have remnants which they sell by the pound, and will shear it up for you. They also appear to do high-end fabrication of gutters, downspouts etc. Perfect supply for hobby welders, artist raw materials, etc. Family owned and run, good people, very knowledgable. This place is a true gem and is not easy to find, so I thought I would put up a review. Give them a try; you'll be glad you did.