06 Jan 6 Ways to Use Weathering Steel in 2020
The atmospheric corrosion resistance of weathering steel enable it to be used unpainted in many structural and architectural applications, such as bridges and open-frame buildings. However, there are several lesser-known ways to use weathering steel and take advantage of its strength, durability and corrosion-resistant properties as well as its aesthetically-appealing appearance.
What is weathering steel
Weathering steels are a family of ASTM specifications and trademarked specifications that exhibit similar corrosion-resistant properties. While the more well-known term and primary trademarked product is Cor-ten, corten-equivalent steels share the same properties. The corten-equivalent ASTM specifications are A588, A242, A606-4, A871-65 and A709-50W. The selection of a particular ASTM specification is dependent on the type of product and application desired.
Ways to use weathering steel
To kick off a new year, we rounded up 6 ways to use weathering steel:
- Landscape and garden design: From weathering steel landscape edging to planter boxes, there are several ways to use weathering steel to shape and beautify an outdoor space. In fact, The Wall Street Journal recently named cor-ten as a top trend in garden design.
- Stormwater management: Central Steel Service recently provided the materials needed for a stormwater management system for a school in California. In this particular project, corten steel planter boxes and panels were used to shape the system. Weathering steel retaining walls are another effective way to manage stormwater.
- Roofing and siding: Produced from ASTM A606-4 and A588, weathering steel corrugated and profile panels are often used to construct roofs and building facades. For instance, Central Steel’s office building was built out of cold-rolled weathering steel. The building’s exterior facade was constructed from ASTM A606-4 corrugated and rib panels.
- Sign posts: Weathering steel sign posts are designed to last 30 years longer than your typical steel posts because they develop the protective patina. Plus, they look great in natural environments! Weathering steel sign posts are often used for traffic signs and vineyard end posts.
- Security solutions: Weathering steel works well in security applications, including gates, fences and bollards. As with other weathering steel applications, the rusty patina the steel develops overtime blends well in outdoor spaces, like playgrounds, parks, farms and vineyards.
- Outdoor sculptures: Weathering steel has become increasingly popular for use in outdoor sculptures. Sculptors take advantage of weathering steel’s corrosion resistance, availability, fabricability, and appearance to create many striking and appealing works of art.
These are just a few of the many ways weathering and corten steel can be used. Its usefulness is only limited by one’s imagination. Contact Central Steel Service today to see how weathering steel can be used in your next project!
Established in 1981, Central Steel Service, Inc. specializes in the distribution of High Strength Weathering, High Strength and Abrasion Resistant Steel products.