What Are The Benefits Of Using Corten Steel In Your Outdoor Space?

In recent years, Corten Weathering Steel has become an increasingly popular choice for many architects and garden designers alike, but what are some of the benefits it can provide? We thought we would take a closer look…

The Benefits Of Corten

1. Durability

A standout attribute of Corten lies in its exceptional durability. When exposed to the weather, Corten develops a protective rust-like layer on its surface thanks to the addition of copper, chromium and nickel alloying elements. Unlike the destructive rust found on most metals, this protective layer shields the material from further corrosion, significantly increasing its lifespan and making it far more resistant to atmospheric corrosion than other types of steel.

2. Low Maintenance 

In today’s fast-paced world, we all value products that require minimal maintenance and offer maximum longevity. Corten Steel perfectly fits this bill. Initially developed to eliminate the need for painting or coating, Corten Steel thrives outdoors in its unfinished state.

One of Corten Steel’s most impressive features is its self-protective capability. The same rust-like layer that grants the material its incredible durability also has self-healing properties. This means that if the surface of Corten Steel is scratched or damaged, the protective layer will restore itself over time, further reducing the need for maintenance.

It’s worth noting that any maintenance performed on Corten Steel is primarily for aesthetic reasons, rather than preservation of the material. So, whether you’re a homeowner seeking to minimize upkeep or an architect looking for a material that offers durability and simplicity, Corten Steel proves to be a remarkably low-maintenance choice.

3. Aesthetic Appeal

Over time Corten Steel undergoes a striking transformation, developing a rust-like appearance that showcases rich copper and bronze tones. This natural patina not only serves a protective function but also boasts an aesthetic that blends seamlessly with natural surroundings, adding a touch of rustic elegance.

The unique and attractive appearance of Corten Steel has drawn the attention of architects and landscape garden designers alike. The material’s rustic charm and its ability to age gracefully have made it a popular choice in contemporary design. With its striking aesthetics and enduring resilience, Corten Steel brings a blend of beauty and durability that few materials can match.

4. Environmentally Friendly

Corten makes a strong case for being an environmentally friendly material. Its durability translates into a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and subsequent resource consumption. Additionally, Corten Steel is 100% recyclable, meaning that when a structure made from Steel reaches the end of its life, the material can be repurposed and reused, contributing to a circular economy.

Moreover, Corten Steel’s inherent resistance to corrosion eliminates the requirement for any paint or protective coatings, which are often made from environmentally harmful substances. By avoiding the need for these treatments, the use of Corten Steel is a step towards reducing harmful environmental impacts.

5. Cost-effective

While the initial investment for Corten Steel may appear higher when compared with mild steel, it’s essential to consider the bigger picture. The longevity and low maintenance nature of Corten Steel make it a highly cost-effective choice in the long run. Its durable nature means fewer replacements over time, resulting in cost savings.

The absence of painting and ongoing maintenance costs also contribute to Corten’s cost-effectiveness. Traditional steels often require regular treatments and touch-ups to retain their appearance and durability, but that’s not the case with Corten. This reduction in ongoing maintenance also results in significant savings over time.

6. Versatility

The final advantage of Corten is its remarkable versatility. The material’s ability to be easily welded and formed into any desired shape opens the doors to a vast array of design possibilities. This ease of manipulation gives architects and designers the creative licence to bring their unique visions to life, making Corten Steel an exceptionally adaptable material suitable for various applications.

Corten Steel’s remarkable characteristics have paved the way for its use across various sectors such as architecture, construction, and landscape design. Examples of its application range from large infrastructures like bridges to iconic sculptures such as the Angel of the North. Additionally, its rusted charm has found a place in smaller-scale products like steel garden planters, edging, and street furniture that have become very popular in recent years.

Summing Up the Advantages of Corten Steel

To summarise, Corten Steel is a high-performing, sustainable, and visually appealing material that is perfect for various applications to enhance your outdoor space. To learn more about the material please see our What is Corten? blog post.

If you are looking to discover the many benefits that adding Corten Steel can provide, then Lux Unique is here to help you. We offer a huge array of unique Corten Steel Products to help you create a truly stunning finish in your garden.

Want to find out more? Check out the full range today, or get in touch with our team at hello@luxunique.co.uk with any questions you may have.