Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is a high tensile steel that forms a protective layer of rust or patina when exposed to the elements. This patina shields the steel from further corrosion, giving it a characteristic reddish-brown color.
To form this protective patina, corten steel needs repeated cycles of wetting and drying. If buried or otherwise prevented from experiencing these cycles, corten steel will not develop the patina and will rust at a similar rate to mild steel.
To extend the lifespan of corten steel, ensure all retaining walls have adequate drainage to prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup. Poorly drained retaining walls with saturated soils will shorten the lifespan of unprotected corten steel.
For this reason, it is recommended sealing the insides of planters and the backs of retaining walls made of corten steel with a bitumen sealer.
Thin (1.0mm to 1.5mm thick) unprotected steel when buried has quite a short lifespan.
By following these simple care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your corten steel structures will last for many years to come.
Weathering steel alloys, are often refereed to as Corten.
Corten steel, was a steel alloy that was first developed in 1933 by the US steel Corporation.
Weathering steel ASTM A606-4 often sold as Corten, develops a protective oxide film, when exposed to repeated wet-dry cycles.
Unlike raw steel, Cor-Ten steel is corrosion resistant due to its alloy composition, it does not show bubbling, flaking or peeling which normally occurs with raw steel.
This oxide bonds with the base metal and continues to corrode over time at a much much slower rate.
The inherent nature of the rusting process, is that variations in colour, hue and texture should be expected, these variations are not considered flaws or defects.
Cor-Ten steel is sold un-weathered (grey/blue steel) and will produce a rust run-off which will may stain stone, concrete, and decking surfaces if not allowed to weather first. To limit staining to surrounding surfaces, place your planter in grass or soil during the initial weathering period.
Company profile
Founded in 2008, Gnee (Tianjin) Supply Chain Group Co., Ltd. specializes in the global trade and processing of Corten steel products.
• We handle all kinds of Corten engineering projects, such as bridges, gardens, hotels, and facade systems.
• Compliant with ASTM, EN, and other international standards; third-party inspection supported.
• Exported to over 200 countries and regions worldwide.
• 8 subsidiaries across China and overseas, ensuring global service coverage.
Application Fields: Architecture, landscaping, gardening, cladding, and urban infrastructure.
