How to Stick Weld Vertical (Vertical Up Welding Guide)

Vertical stick welding (MMA) is one of the most important — and challenging — skills to learn. Unlike flat welding, gravity works against you, making it harder to control the molten metal and maintain a clean weld.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to stick weld vertical step by step, including the best techniques, settings, and pro tips for beginners in the UK.

🔧 What Is Vertical Stick Welding?

Vertical welding means welding on a vertical surface, where the weld progresses either:

• Upwards (Vertical Up)
• Downwards (Vertical Down)

👉 Most structural welding uses vertical up because it provides stronger penetration.

⚙️ Vertical Up vs Vertical Down

Method	Best For	Difficulty	Strength
Vertical Up	Thick steel	Harder	Stronger
Vertical Down	Thin metal	Easier	Weaker

👉 For UK fabrication and structural work, vertical up is the standard.

🧰 Equipment & Setup

Recommended:

• Stick welder (MMA inverter)
• Electrodes: E6013 (beginner) or E7018 (strong welds)
• PPE (EN379 helmet, gloves, protective clothing)

Settings:

• Use slightly lower amperage than flat welding
  👉 Helps control the weld pool and prevent sagging

⚙️ Step-by-Step: How to Stick Weld Vertical Up

1. Set Lower Amperage

• Reduce current by about 10–15% compared to flat welding
• Prevents molten metal from dripping

2. Start from the Bottom

• Begin at the bottom of the joint
• Move upwards slowly

👉 This supports the weld pool as it builds.

3. Maintain a Short Arc Length

• Keep the arc tight (1–2mm)
• Avoid long arcs → causes spatter and weak welds

4. Use a Weaving Motion

Common patterns:

• Small zig-zag
• Triangle weave
• Side-to-side motion

👉 Pause slightly at the edges to build strength.

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5. Control Your Travel Speed

• Move slowly enough for penetration
• But not too slow (to avoid sagging)

👉 Watch the weld pool — it should stay controlled and not drip.

6. Keep the Correct Angle

• Hold electrode at 10–15° upward angle
• Push slightly upward as you weld

7. Clean Slag Between Passes

• Chip and brush slag after each pass
• Essential for multi-pass welds

❌ Common Mistakes (And Fixes)

❌ Weld sagging or dripping

✔ Reduce amperage
✔ Move faster

❌ Lack of penetration

✔ Slow down slightly
✔ Improve weave technique

❌ Excessive spatter

✔ Shorten arc length
✔ Adjust current

❌ Uneven weld bead

✔ Maintain consistent motion
✔ Practise steady hand control

• Best Budget Stick Welder UK

🧠 Pro Tips for Beginners

• Start with E6013 electrodes (easier control)
• Practise on scrap vertical plates
• Focus on weld pool, not the arc
• Use smaller electrodes (2.0mm–2.5mm)
• Take breaks to avoid overheating

🛡️ Safety Tips (UK Users)

• Wear full PPE (EN379 helmet, gloves, protective clothing)
• Be aware of falling sparks (vertical welding hazard)
• Ensure proper ventilation
• Keep workspace dry and safe

❓ FAQs

Is vertical welding harder than flat welding?

Yes — gravity makes it more difficult to control the weld pool.

Should I weld vertical up or down?

• Vertical up → stronger welds
• Vertical down → easier but weaker

What rods are best for vertical welding?

• E6013 → beginner-friendly
• E7018 → stronger structural welds

🏁 Final Thoughts

Learning how to stick weld vertical is a key step in becoming a skilled welder. While it’s more challenging than flat welding, mastering vertical techniques will significantly improve your ability to handle real-world welding jobs in the UK.

With practice, правиль settings, and controlled movement, you can achieve strong, clean vertical welds.