The Patina Timeline

Weathering steel, commonly referred to as corten steel, is the only type of steel that does not require paint or a sealant to protect it from atmospheric corrosion. In fact, weathering steels are intentionally manufactured to provide this resistance to atmospheric corrosion as well as enhanced yield and tensile strength properties. 

While there are several benefits of using weathering steel, the fundamental benefit is its ability to resist corrosion. The atmospheric corrosion resistance of weathering steel enables it to be used unpainted in many structural and architectural applications for structures, including bridges, open-frame buildings, transmission towers,...