Corten - weathering steel

Corten, or weathering steel, is formulated to develop a stable, rust-like appearance after exposure to the elements - the surface oxidises to form a protective layer that slows further corrosion, rather than flaking away as ordinary rust does. That makes it a low-maintenance choice for exterior structures that are meant to be left unpainted.

Its warm, rust-orange finish has made it a popular material for contemporary architecture, sculpture and landscaping, often used to striking effect alongside stone, timber, or planting.

Starting out it looks the same as mild steel, and can take a couple of years to achieve its true finish. We can pre-patinate if you prefer, speeding the natural aging process.

We fabricate corten steel at our Sussex workshop for exterior pieces that are meant to be left to the elements - sculpture, cladding and landscaping structures that only get better with age.