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Example of the custom metal railings and related structures created by Iron E Fabricators on the island.
Photo submitted by Joe Folcarelli
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Example of the custom metal railings and related structures created by Iron E Fabricators on the island.
Photo submitted by Joe Folcarelli
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According to Iron E Fabricators owner Joseph Folcarelli, what he does is his whole life. He said he originally found out about Pine Island when his daughter was an EMT here.
“I’ve been doing this since 1989,” Folcarelli said.
Working with his son, Joey, who he describes as a good man, he said his business brings a lot of relief to residential homeowners, with such items railings, stairways or light structures, he said, but he also does a lot of commercial work for contractors.
“I’m sort of leaning, more now toward residential. That is sort of what we’re focusing on,” Folcarelli said.
A shop of his was finished just two days before Hurricane Ian blew into town, he said, and although it’s still standing, he said he feels as though he’s still trying to get things going. Folcarelli is hoping to bring quality to every job he does with his son.
“We always make sure we do good, quality work and have a good rapport with all of our contractors and customers,” Folcarelli said.
Of all the work that comes in, Folcarelli said, fabricating railings and stairways are likely his biggest jobs, although he admits it’s a gamut of different things.
“I do a lot of welding. I’m a certified welder so I do a lot of aluminum welding, also steel and stainless steel. We’re getting more into the boat work and more into the marine side of things. That is where we’re going to be focusing more of our attention,” Folcarelli said.
Because of island elevation, he said, they do see a need for steps and railings on Pine Island as well as the surrounding islands. Because Iron E Fabricators of Bokeelia does all custom work, it can take some time, as they work with customers and businesses to be sure to get the job done to precise specifications.
Although Folcarelli seems to be in a class by himself as he said, there are not a lot of people out there doing what he’s doing.
“We do a lot of repairs. Aluminum, steel, as well as stainless steel. I just want to be able to share my services and whatever anybody needs,” Folcarelli said.
According to Joey Folcarelli there is no one more determined than his father, who he describes as always on the go and resolute on doing quality work on any job he finds himself doing.
“My dad is determined. He’s a dedicated person and there is nobody I find more inspiring than my dad, in my opinion,” Folcarelli said.