The main feature of Corten steel is its noble brownish color. It seems that it is bronze, but in fact the steel is just rusty, a layer of patina has formed on it, and this was originally planned.
Corten steel contains conventional steel with alloying additions of phosphorus, copper and chromium. It is these additives that lead to the appearance of persistent corrosion on the metal surface. Once it has appeared, a layer of rust protects the inside of the metal, its core. As a result, corten steel does not need any additional protection from water and is not painted, it is an almost eternal material that is not afraid of changing weather conditions.
Due to the fact that from a technical point of view, Corten steel is one of the most resistant to corrosion and also has an interesting appearance, it is widely used in landscape design, including for the creation of benches and fences..
Of course, metal surfaces, moreover, covered with patina, look a little rough. But for a terrace and a gazebo, this durable material is perfect and can become such a spacious cabinet where firewood is stored for the barbecue and fireplace.
Due to its strength, corten steel can become a material for creating such waterfalls and mini-pools. There is no need to repair the structure after wintering under the snow. In addition, Corten steel is very pleasant to the touch, with a velvety surface..
When buying corten steel, for example, to decorate the facade of a house, be prepared for the usual “white” version. Patina will turn out in a few years – oxidation occurs as the moist and dry air changes. At the same time, it is impossible to wash off the corrosion layer from Corten steel – alloying elements create compounds that do not dissolve in water.
Corten steel can be used to create surprisingly light-looking structures, almost weightless in appearance, openwork. Perfect decoration of an open veranda or terrace. During rain, drops are distributed over the surface of the metal, the corrosion process becomes less and less pronounced over time, and then stops altogether.
In the garden of Corten steel, it is advisable to build a hearth or barbecue, which will not lose their properties even after wintering on the street. Also, this material will be a good option for arranging a storage place for firewood. It turns out an attractive composition, part of the design of the entire site.
A very important point – when planning to use corten steel in your area, make sure that it does not come into contact with other metal objects. The only exception will be stainless steel, all other types of metals will simply “get infected” with rust.
Another option for using Corten steel on the site is flower pots and pots of various shapes and sizes. The result is a very durable container for plants that can be placed even near water.
Corten steel can of course be bent, cut, welded like other metals. This greatly expands the possibilities of working with material, allowing you to create any designs, experiment with shapes and designs.
In the interior, corten steel is used, of course, not as often as on the street and in the decoration of facades, but it still occurs, immediately attracting attention. As an option, Corten steel can serve as a material for a wall panel, decoration of an interior or entrance door, and a staircase.
In addition, one of the areas of application of Corten steel can be furniture details, for example, legs for an original table and chairs. In this form, the metal does not look rough at all, it fits perfectly into a modern and classic interior.
We must not forget that corten steel is a very resistant material that is not afraid of fire. Therefore, Corten steel can be used to frame fireplaces, sauna stoves, wood-burning kitchen fireplaces..