AltNova: Craftsmanship & innovation
RESTAURATION & conservation AUTHENTIC METAL WORKS
The restoration of valuable historical metal works (gates, wrought iron fencing, cast iron balconies, steel joinery, custom hardware…) is one of the main activities : after searching for the causes of the current condition, we make an inventory of all parts and number them. We disassemble if necessary in the reverse order of the original assembly, we repair in workshop or in situ and make faithful reproductions of missing or excessively weathered parts. Our workshop is equipped with our own blast cabinet and metallization equipment. Altnova has a thorough knowledge of appropriate painting techniques for old metalwork.
NATURAL STEEL WORKS : CLEANING & restoration
Old metal works are almost always anchored in a natural stone column, pedestal or plinth. The treatment of the damaged natural stone requires a global approach with knowledge of both disciplines: metal and stone. In repairing the metalwork, Altnova takes into account the problems inherent in the combination of natural stone and metal, especially the very different expansion due to temperature changes.
NEW METAL WORKS
AltNova designs, manufactures and installs custom gates, balconies and fencing from different art styles such as Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Louis XIV, XV. With our knowledge of traditional techniques, we recognize more details in old photographs, based on which we truthfully manufacture vanished metal works.
Historical searches – premiums
We enable clients to pass on valuable things to future generations. But not without taking an interest in the past. With our own historical searches for old foundries & metal workshops, we can complement more global historical research.
Altnova has a good knowledge of the various support measures available at the regional level regarding the restoration of metalwork & natural stone.
Altnova has a good knowledge of the various support measures in the different regions.
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Who we are.
our team
We are an experienced and skillfully assembled team: in-house workshop with blasting cabin and metallization equipment, in-house placement service, measurement and drawing office, historical searches.
Innovative craftsmanship
With solid knowledge of traditional techniques and openness to new technologies (3D imaging and print and CNC milling techniques).
Customer-friendly
We are happy to come on site to assess the situation prior to your quote. We are open to your questions and think with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
To the right, we have listed some frequently asked questions. Do you still have an unsolved question? If so, please contact us.
Managing director Mark Peeters released a second, fully revised version of his first book, “Restoration of Forgings & Cast Iron: Answers to 10 Frequently Asked Questions. The book is available in Dutch and French and can be partially viewed online for free. The full book is available on bol.com.
The book answers the 10 most frequently asked questions our clients have about restoration. Is it best to perform the work on site or in the studio? What does a typical restoration job look like? What type of paint system is preferred for my fencing? View the full table of contents in the free preview copy at the link below.
For whom do we perform works ?
AltNova works for individuals, public institutions and large general contractors in the restoration industry.
What metal works do we perform and what do we mean by restoration ?
These include balconies, fences, gates, window grilles, roof ornaments such as spires, wall anchors, etc. But also steel joinery. We assume that the metal works are valuable and thus will be preserved in their original form.
Restoration occurs when advanced rust has affected functional components (hinges, hardware, lock case) and/or decorative elements (arrowheads, decorative scrolls, rosettes). Restoration thus involves both the repair of existing elements and the creation of an identical copy.
Explore all of our services here.
Wrought or cast iron and how do I recognize it ?
Why would you want to know whether it is wrought or cast iron ? After all, each of the two materials requires an appropriate restoration method. Cast iron has somewhat more limited restoration possibilities in case of major damage.
How do I distinguish ancient from contemporary constructions ?
Contemporary metal structures are usually an assembly of hollow tubes and tubes welded together. The welds, when skillfully applied, are watertight.
Ancient metal works consist of a series of solid parts (flat, round or square bar) joined together using bands, bolts and rivets. We call these mechanical joints.
Why do I also have damage to my (natural) stone?
An old metal structure forms an inseparable pair with the natural stone in which it is anchored, but one with “tensions” in which it is difficult to live together.
Wrought and cast iron undergoes changes under the influence of temperature changes. In hot weather the structure expands slightly, in cold weather there is a contraction. The degree to which this happens is called the coefficient of expansion. Metals have a coefficient of expansion up to (almost) three times higher than that of bluestone.
Are there premiums and where can I go ?
Any premiums or subsidies depend on the region in which you are located: Brussels Capital Region (BCR), Flanders or Wallonia.
For more information on premiums, please contact your local Stadswinkel and Monumentenwacht.
The company Altnova has extensive knowledge of the various support measures.
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Are you interested in a price quote or do you have questions about your project ? Do not hesitate to contact us by phone or e-mail. You can also contact AltNova if you want to know if your project is eligible for subsidies.
We are looking for employees
See if we are looking for someone with your profile or apply freely by contacting us.