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Business Details
36 Years
experience
Custom Wrought Iron Art & Architectural Metalwork in Portland, ME
Since 1975, Bob Menard has dedicated his career to mastering the art of blacksmithing, bringing decades of hands-on experience to The Ball and Chain Forge. Established in 1990 and based in Portland, ME, our company specializes in creating custom hand-forged wrought iron works that blend functionality with artistic expression. From architectural elements like granite stair railings and decorative ironwork to bespoke art pieces for residential and commercial spaces, we combine traditional techniques with modern design to meet each client's unique vision. Our commitment to quality is underscored by a lifetime warranty on all products, ensuring lasting value for every project. With a deep understanding of both historical craftsmanship and contemporary applications, we approach each commission as an opportunity to solve challenges creatively while maintaining the integrity of time-honored metalworking practices.

Our portfolio reflects a diverse range of projectsfrom intricate fireplace hardware to large-scale public art installationsdemonstrating our ability to translate ideas into enduring metal creations. As a locally rooted business operating in the Greater Portland area since 1990, we prioritize personalized service, collaborating closely with clients to transform concepts into tangible works of art that enhance both private homes and public spaces.
Services
Custom Railings Art Fabrication Architectural Ironwork Decorative Metalwork Granite Stair Railings Wrought Iron Gates Fireplace Hardware Metal Sculptures
Details
  • Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
  • We offer 40+ years of specialized expertise in hand-forged wrought iron craftsmanship.
  • Our lifetime warranty guarantees lasting quality on all custom metal creations.
  • We combine traditional blacksmithing techniques with modern design innovation.
  • We provide personalized collaboration from concept to installation for unique projects.
  • Our portfolio includes both residential and large-scale commercial art installations.
Services
Custom Railings
Handcrafted iron railings tailored to architectural specifications. Combines safety with artistic design for staircases, balconies, and outdoor spaces. Durable, corrosion-resistant construction ensures long-term functionality while enhancing property aesthetics.
Art Fabrication
Custom sculptural pieces for residential and commercial spaces. Transforms client concepts into unique iron artworks using traditional forging techniques. Suitable for interior accents, public installations, and decorative features.
Architectural Ironwork
Functional metal components for building exteriors and interiors. Includes gates, fencing, and structural supports with decorative elements. Precision-crafted to meet engineering requirements while maintaining visual appeal.
Decorative Metalwork
Custom ornamental pieces for home and business interiors. Features fireplace screens, lighting fixtures, and furniture accents. Combines traditional blacksmithing methods with contemporary design trends for distinctive results.
Granite Stair Railings
Integrated metal and stone railing systems for staircases. Combines wrought iron durability with granite elegance. Engineered for safety while creating sophisticated architectural focal points in residential and commercial buildings.
People
Bob Menard
Owner & Master Blacksmith
Founder with 40+ years of blacksmithing experience since 1975. Specializes in blending traditional techniques with modern design. Holds lifetime warranty commitment for all metalwork. Operated in Portland since 1990.
Questions
What types of custom metalwork do you specialize in?
We create custom railings, gates, sculptures, fireplace hardware, and architectural ironwork using traditional blacksmithing techniques combined with modern design principles.
Do you offer services for both residential and commercial clients?
Yes, we serve both residential homeowners and commercial businesses for projects ranging from decorative accents to large-scale architectural installations.
What areas do you serve?
Based in Litchfield, ME, we primarily serve the Portland, ME area and surrounding regions for custom metal fabrication projects.
What warranty do you provide on your work?
We offer a lifetime warranty on all our wrought iron products, guaranteeing lasting quality and durability for every project.
How do you approach custom design projects?
We collaborate directly with clients from concept development through installation, ensuring each piece meets specific functional requirements and aesthetic preferences.
Can you repair existing metalwork?
Yes, we handle specialized metal repairs that typical welding shops may not accommodate, drawing on our extensive blacksmithing expertise and experience.
Reviews (1)
Marc Grenier
Feb 06, 2021 Report
What a shop! So much equipment, meticulously placed in zones, and so clean. Had a great one on one tour with Bob. And as blacksmiths do, he passed on valuable insight to me and answered all my questions. The main reason for the trip to Maine was to get a firepot setup. Top notch quality as all the other, in progress, projects Bob showed me. Thanks Ball & Chain