Choosing the right steel detailer is one of the most important decisions you can make for the success of your steel construction project. From turning design concepts into precise shop drawings to ensuring every bolt, weld, and cut line aligns perfectly on-site, the right detailer can save you time, money, and countless headaches.

While there are many checklists out there, the best steel fabricators rely on a few key principles when selecting their detailing partner. Here’s what really matters.

1. Experience Is Everything in Steel Detailing

When it comes to steel detailing, experience is more than a nice-to-have—it’s a must. Look for detailers with a strong track record and a portfolio that reflects a wide range of completed projects, from structural frames to complex stairs and miscellaneous steel components.

Ask potential detailers:

  • How many projects have they completed in the past 3–5 years?

  • What types of steel fabricators do they typically work with?

  • How much of their business comes from repeat clients?

A consistent history of successful collaboration with fabricators speaks volumes about a detailer’s reliability, accuracy, and understanding of real-world jobsite conditions.

Pro tip: Request references and speak to past clients. A quick conversation can reveal more than a polished portfolio ever will.

2. Deep Industry Knowledge Makes a Difference

Modern steel detailing is more than just modeling—it requires cross-functional knowledge of how structures are fabricated, shipped, and installed. A detailer who understands the realities of fabrication and erection sequencing will anticipate issues before they become RFIs.

Bonus points if your detailer:

  • Has hands-on shop or field experience

  • Comes from an engineering or construction background

  • Actively coordinates with architects, engineers, and trades

This kind of detailer doesn’t just draw what’s on the plans—they help build constructible, clash-free solutions that work in the field.

3. Smart Use of Technology in Steel Detailing

Most detailers use Tekla Structures, SDS2, or similar platforms—but the real question is: how well do they use them?

High-performing steel detailing companies invest in:

  • Standardized workflows

  • Custom plugins and automations

  • Reusable part libraries and macros

  • QA/QC systems and process documentation

This kind of tech-savvy approach not only speeds up modeling and drawing time—it also means fewer mistakes, faster approvals, and lower costs for your project.

Before hiring a detailer, ask:
“How do you use technology to make detailing faster and more accurate?”

Ready to Partner with a Detailer Who Checks All the Boxes?

At ESD Solutions, we bring over a decade of hands-on experience in structural, miscellaneous, and ornamental steel detailing. Our team of 20+ in-house professionals works closely with U.S. fabricators to deliver accurate, shop-ready drawings—on time, every time.

We don’t just model—we solve problems, coordinate with your team, and keep your schedule moving.

👉 Let’s talk about your next project. Reach out to ESD Solutions and discover how the right steel detailer can make all the difference.