What metal picture frames are made for
Metal picture frames are chosen for a neat, restrained look that does not fight with the artwork. They suit photography, line drawings, certificates, prints, posters and contemporary art that needs a crisp border rather than a heavy timber profile. In a home, they work well in passage walls, living rooms and studies. In galleries, they help keep the focus on the piece while giving a clean, professional edge.
We make and supply metal picture frames for clients in Parkhurst, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Midrand, Sandton, Rosebank, Cape Town and Durban. The finish can be brushed, anodised or powder-coated depending on the look you want and the conditions the frame will face. Coastal areas such as Durban need a bit more attention to corrosion resistance, while bright interior spaces in Gauteng may call for anti-reflective glazing to control glare.
- Slim profile for a modern finish
- Suitable for paper art, photographs and prints
- Lightweight compared with many timber profiles
- Available in standard and custom sizes
Sizes, profile choices and glazing options
Metal frames are available in popular ready-made sizes as well as made-to-measure options for unusual artworks. Common sizes include A4, A3, 300 x 400 mm, 500 x 700 mm, 600 x 900 mm and larger exhibition formats. For oversized pieces, we can advise on support, glazing weight and safe hanging points so the frame stays secure over time.
There are several profile widths and face depths to choose from. A narrow 10 to 15 mm face works well for small prints and tight wall arrangements, while a slightly broader profile gives more presence around large images. Glazing options include standard clear glass, UV-filtering glass, acrylic and anti-glare options. For fragile works or pieces going into busy public spaces, acrylic can be a practical choice because it is lighter and less prone to breakage during handling. If the frame will sit in strong light, ask for UV protection to help reduce fading.
- Standard sizes or custom made sizing
- Choice of profile width and corner finish
- Clear glass, UV glass, acrylic or anti-glare glazing
- Options for single mounts or double mounts
Where metal frames suit best indoors
Metal picture frames suit places where a tidy, modern line is important. They are often used in gallery walls, corporate receptions, apartments, bedrooms and home offices. They also work well for framed certificates, photo series and exhibition sets where you want repeat sizes and a consistent border. For restaurant walls or reception areas, the frames keep a professional look without seeming bulky.
When clients are choosing between metal and other frame types, we usually look at the artwork first. Fine art prints with clean edges often suit metal very well. If the room has a lot of natural light, the choice of glazing becomes just as important as the frame itself. In north-facing rooms in Johannesburg, for example, glare can be a problem through much of the day, so anti-reflective glazing may be worth the extra cost. For coastal homes, keeping the frame dry and out of direct salty air helps preserve the finish.
- Gallery walls and exhibition spaces
- Contemporary homes and apartments
- Offices, receptions and waiting rooms
- Photography, certificates and prints
Installation, hanging and site conditions
Metal frames are usually straightforward to hang, but the right fixing still matters. The wall type, frame size and weight all affect the final choice. A small A4 frame can often go on a simple hook or picture nail, while a large glazed frame may need two hanging points and proper wall plugs. In older homes, plaster walls and uneven surfaces need more care, and in apartments it helps to confirm what the building allows before drilling.
Our team can assist with gallery hanging and installation when needed. That is useful for collections, stair walls or framed sets that must line up neatly. There are no power or gas needs for metal picture frames, only proper handling, measured fixing points and a clean surface for installation. If the artwork is being placed in a public area, we can also advise on safety fixings and whether acrylic is the better option than glass. It saves trouble later, especially where children or traffic are involved.
- No electrical or gas requirements
- Use wall fixings matched to the frame weight
- Check wall type before hanging
- Installation help available for larger or grouped pieces
Care, servicing and frame repairs
Metal frames need simple care, but a bit of attention goes a long way. Dust the frame with a soft dry cloth and avoid strong cleaners that can dull the finish. If the frame is in a humid room or near a coastal breeze, wipe it down now and then and check for any sign of corrosion at the corners or hanging points. Keep framed works out of direct water spray and away from cooking steam where possible.
If the glazing is scratched, the mount is damaged or the backing has shifted, we can help with frame repairs, reframing and glass replacement. Sometimes a print that was framed years ago needs a fresh mount or new backing board to sit square again. For galleries and offices, regular checking is useful because repeated handling can loosen fixings or mark the surface. A simple service every so often can keep the frame looking tidy and safe.
- Dust with a soft cloth only
- Avoid abrasive cleaners and rough sponges
- Check hanging points after moving the frame
- Reframing and glass replacement available when needed
What to check before ordering
Before you order a metal picture frame, measure the artwork carefully and decide whether you want the visible image to sit inside a mount or fill the full opening. Check the final wall space too, because a frame that looks right on the table can feel too small or too large once it is on the wall. If the piece is valuable, ask about UV glazing and how the backing will protect the artwork from dust and handling.
It also helps to think about colour and finish. Silver, black and white are the most common choices, but a softer metallic tone may work better with warm interiors. For homes in South Africa where load-shedding, heat and humidity are part of daily life, practical details matter. A frame that is easy to clean, simple to hang and suited to the environment will usually last better than one chosen only for looks. Bring in the artwork details, size and a photo of the room if you can, and we will guide you through the best option.
- Artwork size, finished size and wall space
- Glazing choice for light and protection
- Frame colour and profile width
- Mounting and hanging method
Key facts
| Frame material | Metal profile with corner joinery suited to custom and ready-made framing |
|---|---|
| Common sizes | A4, A3, 300 x 400 mm, 500 x 700 mm, 600 x 900 mm and custom sizes |
| Finish options | Brushed, anodised or powder-coated |
| Glazing choices | Clear glass, UV-filtering glass, acrylic, anti-glare options |
| Typical uses | Prints, photographs, certificates, posters and contemporary art |
| Service areas | Parkhurst, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Midrand, Sandton, Rosebank, Cape Town and Durban |
