MIG vs TIG vs Stick Welding: What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?
When it comes to welding, the most common processes are MIG welding (Metal Inert Gas) TIG welding (Tungsten Inert Gas) and Stick Welding. Widely used across industries, from construction and automotive to fabrication and repair. But what’s the difference, and which option is right for your project?
At Hudson Contracting, we specialise in mobile welding Brisbane services, offering Stick, MIG and TIG welding on-site. Let’s break down the key differences so you know what to expect and which method best suits your needs.
What is MIG Welding?
MIG welding uses a continuously fed wire electrode and shielding gas to create strong, fast welds.
- Best for: Larger projects, structural steelwork, and situations where speed matters.
- Advantages: Quick, efficient, and relatively easy to perform.
- Limitations: Portability, Less control over delicate or thin materials compared to TIG.
What is TIG Welding?
TIG welding uses a tungsten electrode and requires a filler rod (in many cases) to join materials. It’s more precise than MIG welding, making it ideal for detailed or delicate work.
- Best for: Stainless steel, aluminium, exotic metals and thinner metals.
- Advantages: Produces cleaner, high-quality welds with excellent precision.
- Limitations: Slower and requires more skill than MIG welding.
For projects in Brisbane where aesthetics and precision are key — such as custom fabrication or fine aluminium work — TIG welding is often the preferred method.
MIG vs TIG: The Key Differences
Here’s how MIG and TIG stack up against each other:
- Speed: MIG is faster and better for larger projects.
- Precision: TIG is slower but offers greater control.
- Materials: MIG suits mild steel and structural jobs, while TIG is perfect for stainless steel and aluminium.
- Appearance: TIG welds tend to look cleaner and require less finishing.
- Cost: MIG is generally more affordable due to speed and efficiency.
At Hudson Contracting, we provide both techniques as part of our mobile welding Brisbane services. This means we’ll choose the method that best suits your project, ensuring the right balance between cost, strength, and finish.
Stick Welding
While MIG and TIG welding both have their place, stick welding is still the go-to method for many on-site jobs because of its portability and practicality. A caddy stick welder weighs as little as 5 kg and is about the size of a shoebox, making it easy to carry and set up anywhere. By comparison, even compact caddy MIG and TIG welders are heavier (13–18 kg plus the added weight of wire or gas cylinders), that being said, the Large Generator Welders are commonly used on site, but you are limited by access, they are very practical if you are close to where you are working as they are generally placed on our vehicle or can be craned into a site.
When to Choose Stick Welding
Stick welding is often the most practical option for on-site jobs, especially where portability matters. Because the machines are small, lightweight, and don’t rely on heavy gas cylinders or long welding leads, they’re easy to move around and set up in almost any environment. Stick welding is ideal for farm repairs, structural work in remote locations, or projects where access is limited and speed is important. While it doesn’t always produce the same clean finish as TIG, its reliability and convenience make stick welding the go-to method for many mobile welding jobs in Brisbane.
Why Mobile Welding is the Smarter Option in Brisbane
Instead of transporting heavy equipment or materials, mobile welding Brisbane brings the workshop to you. Our qualified welders come directly to your site, saving you time and reducing downtime.
Whether you need MIG or TIG, we arrive fully equipped to handle the job. From construction sites and farms to factories and home projects, mobile welding makes the process simple, fast, and cost-effective.
The Hudson Contracting Difference
At Hudson Contracting, we combine expertise with convenience. Our team is:
- Fully qualified and insured
- Skilled in both MIG and TIG welding
- Equipped with the latest tools for on-site work
- Flexible, reliable, and Brisbane-based
We’ve built our reputation by delivering quality results across a wide range of welding projects, large and small.
Maintaining Your Welds
Getting the right weld is only half the job, keeping it in good condition matters too. Regular inspections, touch-ups when necessary, and using the correct protective coatings can extend the life of your metalwork. Our mobile welding Brisbane service isn’t just about doing the job once, we’re here for ongoing maintenance and support.
Get the Right Welding Solution On-Site in Brisbane
Whether your project calls for the speed of MIG welding or the precision of TIG welding, Hudson Contracting has you covered. With our mobile welding Brisbane service, we come to you, saving time while ensuring a professional finish every time.
From Steel Frames to Finished Structures: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Our Commercial Welding and Metal Fabrication Work
The Role of Mobile Welding in Commercial Projects
When it comes to large-scale construction, there’s no room for shortcuts. Every weld, every join, and every piece of fabricated steel contributes to the safety, durability, and functionality of a structure. That’s why professional mobile welding and metal fabrication services are vital to project success.
At Hudson Contracting, we pride ourselves on being more than just welders. We are problem-solvers, fabricators, and installation specialists trusted by some of Australia’s largest construction companies. With the right training, licences, and insurance, our team delivers work that complies with Australian standards and meets the highest expectations for quality.
A Case Study: From Bare Steel Frames to a Completed Stair Structure
One of our recent commercial projects demonstrates exactly what our team brings to the table.
Before:
The project began with a bare framework of steel. Our team fabricated and installed the stair framework onsite, ensuring every beam, bracket, and support was welded with precision. This stage required careful planning and expert execution. Not only did the welding need to comply with AS1554 SP structural standards, but it also had to be completed efficiently so other trades on site could continue their work without delay.
After: A Safe and Functional Finished Staircase
The transformation is striking. What started as rows of exposed steel became a robust, fully finished stair structure designed to withstand high foot traffic and long-term use. The finished product was not just structurally sound, but also sleek and professional, blending seamlessly into the commercial environment.
By working closely with the client, we delivered a result that ticked every box: quality, safety, compliance, and on-time delivery.
Why Professional Mobile Welding Matters in Commercial Builds
It’s easy to underestimate the role mobile welding plays in commercial construction. Yet behind every building, bridge, or stair structure is a series of precise welds that ensure stability and safety. Poor welding can lead to serious risks, from structural weaknesses to costly rework.
By choosing a professional service like Hudson Contracting, contractors can be confident their projects meet compliance requirements while also maintaining efficiency on site. Our team is equipped to handle everything from straightforward joins to complex structural welding in difficult conditions.
Trusted by Major Contractors
Our credibility is backed by the calibre of our clients. Hudson Contracting has worked with some of the country’s most recognised names in construction, including Epoca Constructions, John Holland, CPB, Lang O’Rourke, Hutchinson Builders, Adco, Meriton, Innovative Rigging, and Lencole Building Systems.
These partnerships demonstrate not only our technical skill but also our ability to collaborate effectively on complex, large-scale projects. We understand the pressures of commercial builds , tight deadlines, strict budgets, and compliance obligations, and we deliver results that help contractors stay on schedule and meet their commitments.
The Results: Quality, Compliance, and Reliability
This case study of the stair structure highlights what sets Hudson Contracting apart. Our welders didn’t just fabricate and install the steel, they ensured every detail was completed to an exceptional standard. The finished result is a structure that will serve its purpose for years to come, with the strength, precision, and compliance our clients rely on.
Keeping projects on track is critical in the commercial sector. By providing reliable commercial mobile welding and metal fabrication services, we help minimise downtime, reduce the risk of delays, and maintain high levels of safety and compliance.
Why Hudson Contracting?
Choosing Hudson Contracting means choosing a team with the skills, equipment, and experience to deliver under pressure. Every project we undertake is approached with a commitment to craftsmanship and reliability. We bring the workshop to your site when needed, or we can fabricate in-house for complex builds.
Our team is fully licensed and insured, with all work carried out in compliance with Australian standards. We are also highly adaptable, capable of working across residential, commercial, and civil industries, from minor repairs to large infrastructure projects.
Need Expert Commercial Mobile Welding and Metal Fabrication in Brisbane?
If your next project requires skilled, reliable, and compliant welding, Hudson Contracting is ready to help. From onsite fabrication and installation to labour-only support, our team has the training, licences, and experience to deliver results that stand the test of time.
Contact Hudson Contracting today to discuss your project and request a free quote. Let us bring expert welding and fabrication directly to your site.
Mobile Welding in Brisbane: What It Is, How It Works, and Why You Might Need It
Bringing the Workshop to Your Site
Welding is one of the foundations of construction, repair, and fabrication — but not every job can be done in a workshop. Large equipment, structural steel, or urgent repairs aren’t always easy to move. That’s where mobile welding Brisbane services make the difference.
At Hudson Contracting, we bring the workshop to you. Our service vehicles are fully equipped with generators, tools, and materials, allowing us to perform high-quality welding on-site. Whether you need structural steel tied in, machinery repaired, or custom fabrication completed, our team is ready to deliver results wherever the job takes us. This eliminates the downtime of transporting heavy materials and ensures your projects stay on track.
What Is Mobile Welding?
Mobile welding is the process of carrying out welding work at your location rather than in a dedicated workshop. Instead of asking you to bring in large steel components or machinery, we arrive with everything needed to get the job done on-site. For Brisbane builders, contractors, and business owners, this flexibility is invaluable. It allows structural steel to be modified in place, urgent repairs to be completed without delay, and even remote projects to move ahead without the need for costly logistics.
How Mobile Welding Works
When you book a mobile welding Brisbane service, the process is designed to be simple and convenient. It begins with an initial assessment, where we determine what needs to be welded and the best approach. From there, our team prepares the necessary tools and equipment, bringing generators and welding machines to ensure we can work even in areas without power supply. The work is then carried out directly at your site, and once complete, we leave the area safe, tidy, and ready for use. By removing the need for transport and workshop scheduling, you get a faster turnaround and less disruption to your daily operations.
Why Choose Mobile Welding in Brisbane?
The real advantage of mobile welding lies in its ability to keep businesses and projects running smoothly. Instead of shutting down equipment and waiting days for it to be transported and repaired, the work happens exactly where it’s needed. That means less downtime and less revenue lost. It’s also a cost-effective solution, because transporting heavy or awkward steel components can be expensive and time-consuming.
Another benefit is the sheer versatility of what can be achieved with mobile welding Brisbane. From structural steel on construction sites to gates, fences, handrails, steps and even machinery modifications, mobile welding adapts to a wide range of applications. For businesses facing urgent breakdowns, having a qualified welder arrive quickly can make the difference between costly delays and getting back on schedule. And with all work carried out to the AS1554 SP structural standard, clients can be confident that every job is compliant and built to last.
The Materials and Processes We Use
Hudson Contracting works with a broad range of materials, which means we can tackle almost any project. Mild steel and high tensile steel are common choices for construction, while stainless steel and aluminium are popular in commercial and residential projects. We also handle cast iron, which is often needed for machinery repairs. Having experience across such varied materials allows us to adapt our approach to your specific project requirements.
Who Relies on Mobile Welding Brisbane?
Mobile welding isn’t limited to one industry. In Brisbane, our clients include retail stores and supermarkets who need general repairs and maintenance, construction companies who require structural steel modifications on-site, and industrial businesses who depend on quick machinery repairs to keep their operations moving. Residential customers also turn to us for gates, fences, and custom metalwork.
Civil and infrastructure projects often call for mobile welding too, particularly when dealing with large-scale steel installations or bridge components that cannot be transported. What unites all of these industries is the need for reliable, professional welding that fits seamlessly into their workflow. That’s exactly what Hudson Contracting delivers.
Why Hudson Contracting?
Choosing the right welder is about more than just finding someone with the right tools. At Hudson Contracting, we focus on craftsmanship, compliance, and reliability. Our team brings years of hands-on experience, meaning we can quickly adapt to the challenges that arise on-site. Every job we complete meets Australian standards, so you can be confident in the quality of our work.
Clients choose us because we make their projects easier. We show up fully prepared, with generators and equipment ready to handle even off-grid projects. Our services are flexible, covering everything from small repairs to major structural welding, and our communication is clear and straightforward. By eliminating the hassle of workshop delays and transport costs, we help you keep your project on schedule and within budget.
Mobile Welding Brisbane – Wherever You Need It
Based in Brisbane, Hudson Contracting services the greater South East Queensland region and also takes on larger projects across Australia and overseas. No matter the size of your project, we can tailor our services to your needs. From urgent breakdowns to long-term structural welding contracts, we deliver workmanship that stands up to Australia’s conditions.
Every job is approached with the same level of attention to detail, whether it’s a minor repair for a small business or a major construction project with tight deadlines. By choosing mobile welding Brisbane services from Hudson Contracting, you’re not just hiring welders, you’re partnering with a team that’s dedicated to keeping your operations running smoothly.
Keep Your Project on Track with Hudson Contracting
When you need fast, reliable, and professional welding services, Hudson Contracting brings the workshop to you. Our mobile welding Brisbane team is equipped to handle everything from small repairs to large structural projects, ensuring compliance and quality every time.
Contact Hudson Contracting today to discuss your project and request a free quote. Let us bring expert welding directly to your site and keep your business moving.
On Site Welding Services for Every Industry: From Aerospace to Construction
When it comes to welding, there’s no one size fits all solution. Different industries require different levels of precision, strength, and compliance, and often, they need those services delivered directly to their site. That’s where on site welding comes in.
At Hudson Contracting, we provide high quality on site welding services tailored to the needs of residential, commercial, and civil clients, as well as industries that require precision work such as aerospace. Our mobile welding team brings the skills, tools, and equipment straight to you, no matter the scale or complexity of your project.
Whether you’re repairing a structural beam, fabricating custom metalwork, or installing safety critical components, our goal is simple: to deliver exceptional craftsmanship without disrupting your operations.
What Is On Site Welding and Why Does It Matter?
On site welding is exactly what it sounds like: welding work carried out at your location rather than in a workshop.
Instead of transporting heavy equipment or structures to a facility, our team arrives fully prepared to carry out welding, fabrication, installation, or repairs where the work is needed. This approach offers several benefits:
- Time savings: No delays transporting materials back and forth
- Reduced downtime: Work is completed without removing equipment from its operating location
- Flexibility: Services can be adapted to your site and specific needs
This makes on site welding ideal for projects where precision, efficiency, and reliability are essential.
Industries We Serve
We understand that no two industries are the same. That’s why our on site welding services are tailored to meet the unique requirements of each sector.
1. Aerospace
When precision matters down to the millimetre, our tradesmen deliver welding that meets strict quality standards. Aerospace welding often involves working on specialised components that require an expert hand.
2. Construction
From structural steel to custom metalwork, we support builders, engineers, and developers with on site welding that keeps projects on track. Our team works to tight deadlines without compromising safety or quality.
3. Civil Infrastructure
Bridges, public facilities, and infrastructure projects often require welding in challenging environments. We provide mobile welding solutions that meet industry regulations and withstand long term use.
4. Commercial
We help commercial property owners and managers with repairs, installations, and modifications, all completed quickly and professionally to minimise disruption.
5. Residential
Homeowners and small scale builders turn to us for everything from custom gates to structural repairs. Our mobile team ensures a professional finish without the hassle of transporting materials.
Our Mobile Welding Advantage
We’re not just a welding business, we’re a mobile welding business. That means we bring everything required to complete the job, including generators for locations without on site power.
This makes Hudson Contracting a top choice for clients across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, Redlands, Logan, and Ipswich.
Our mobile setup means we can:
- Work in rural or remote locations
- Respond quickly to urgent repair needs
- Adapt to different site conditions and environments
What We Don’t Work On
While we can handle almost any project, there are a few things we don’t provide on site welding for:
- 4WDs
- Cars
- Recreational watercraft
- Caravans or trailers
- Motorbikes
This focus allows us to specialise in industrial, commercial, civil, and residential projects where our expertise makes the biggest impact.
Examples of On Site Welding Projects
If you’re wondering whether on site welding could help with your project, here are some common examples:
- Repairing damaged structural beams on site
- Welding heavy machinery parts without removing them from service
- Fabricating custom gates, fences, or metal features directly at the property
- Installing steel frameworks for construction projects
- Carrying out precision welds on specialised industrial equipment
Why Choose Hudson Contracting?
Choosing the right welding service isn’t just about price, it’s about quality, reliability, and peace of mind. At Hudson Contracting, our clients work with us because:
- We bring the workshop to you, saving time and reducing costs
- All work is carried out by highly skilled tradesmen with years of experience
- We adhere to strict safety and compliance standards
- We provide services for projects of all sizes, from small residential jobs to large scale civil contracts
- We understand the needs of multiple industries, from aerospace to construction
Your Project, Done Right the First Time
Whether you need an urgent repair, a large scale fabrication, or a small custom job, on site welding with Hudson Contracting means the work will be completed with precision, safety, and efficiency.
We arrive ready to work, equipped with everything we need to get the job done, even if your site has no power. That’s the Hudson Contracting difference.
Ready to Book Your On Site Welding Service?
Your project deserves expertise, reliability, and the convenience of mobile welding. Hudson Contracting delivers all three, backed by years of industry experience and a commitment to exceptional results.
Contact us today to discuss your welding needs and get a customised quote for your next project.