Established in Hampton, Virginia, in 1978, the company's main focus was on heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. In 1979, the company moved from Hampton to the Newport News neighborhood of Oyster Point Industrial Park. The company started producing speciality items made of aluminum and stainless steel on demand in 1981.

Ronald T. Nelsen, who had worked for Reynolds Metals for fifteen years in the metal industry, bought the business in 1982. Specialty manufacturing became the company's main focus under Mr. Nelsen. Hampton Sheet Metal, Inc. has grown under his direction to become one of the Peninsula's leading bespoke metal producers. Hampton Sheet Metal, Inc. is able to serve a variety of local businesses by providing a wide range of services.