Corten is the most common name for weathering steel. The weathering steel facade is designed to develop a thin layer of rust that acts as a protective coating. Corten was originally developed for practical reasons-to eliminate the need for painting or coating steel surfaces.
For landscape designers, the greatest appeal of Corten lies in its aesthetics. The patina that develops on the steel is highly attractive and pairs beautifully with stone, wood, and plants.
We most commonly use weathering steel for planters, flower pots, troughs, and raised garden beds. It can also be used for retaining walls, barriers, fencing, and façade design.
Are you considering corten steel for your landscape design project?
Architecturally, corten steel is commonly used to create warehouses, bridges, sculptures, and shipping container-based construction.
Corten Steel Buildings Look Unique
Corten Steel For Facade
Not only do the properties of Corten steel make it an excellent material for architecture, but many architects and designers are also drawn to it because of its appearance.
Corten Wall Rust
As Corten steel structures weather and rust, vivid orange and red tones develop across the surface. This distinctive look adds texture while creating the rustic aesthetic that many designers seek.
Ramla Serviced Residences in Riyadh
The Fairmont Ramla Serviced Residences project features an A588-grade Corten steel facade system, blending industrial architectural aesthetics with the surrounding desert environment to create a striking modern appearance.
In this project, our company was primarily responsible for supplying the raw materials for the weathering steel façade system. The naturally formed patina of the Corten steel complements the tones of the desert landscape, enhancing the visual depth of the architecture while also meeting the durability and low-maintenance requirements of outdoor environments.
The overall project design integrates weathering steel façades, courtyard landscapes, water features, and living plant walls. Through the use of natural light and open spatial planning, the design creates a seamless connection between the architecture and the surrounding natural environment.
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Is corten cladding expensive?
Although corten steel may seem more expensive at first, it is a smart choice in the long term as it lasts longer and requires little maintenance. The price difference between traditional steel and corten steel is minimal. Corten steel is more expensive due to the materials used and the specialized production process.
How long will corten steel last outside?
Generally, Corten steel will patina or rust within six months of atmospheric exposure. Most weathering steel types need wet/dry weather cycles to develop and oxidize. With the protective rust that provides corrosion resistance, Corten steel can last upwards of a few decades to over 100 years.
What thickness of corten steel for cladding?
The standard thickness of corten cladding panels range between 2 to 3mm. However, you can customize the thickness to 10mm depending on your specific project requirements. Higher the corten steel facade panels thickness, the longer it will last.
How to speed up corten steel rusting?
This can be done by spraying it with a hose or setting it in a tray of water. Another way is to increase the amount of oxygen that the steel is exposed to. This can be done by sanding or grinding the surface of the steel. By following these steps, you can speed up the process of making your corten steel rust.
What do you seal corten steel with?
Everbrite Coating is a popular choice for sealing and protecting Corten steel to protect the rusted patina. It also prevents rust drips and staining problems by sealing in the rust patina, protecting the surrounding areas and people who may brush against the rust.
