IS CORTEN RIGHT FOR YOU?

Corten Steel: The Specialist’s Guide

Corten steel—often called "weathering steel"—is a favorite among architects for its organic, shifting patina and incredible longevity. However, it is a specialized material that requires a specialized approach. At Refined Metal Work, we don't just fabricate steel; we engineer it to thrive in the Pacific Northwest.

What exactly is Corten steel?

Corten is a high-strength steel alloy developed to eliminate the need for painting. When exposed to the elements, it develops a stable, rust-like appearance called a patina. Unlike standard carbon steel, which continues to corrode until it fails, Corten’s outer layer of oxidation actually protects the steel underneath, making it virtually maintenance-free.

Will the rust stain my concrete or pavers?

This is the most common consideration when choosing Corten. During the first few months of "weathering," the steel will experience some "runoff" as the patina stabilizes.

• The Refined Solution: We provide strategic runoff management. We can pre-weather the steel in our shop to accelerate the process, and we often design our installations with "drip gaps" and hidden drainage to protect your premium hardscapes from staining.

How long does it last?

Corten is an investment in permanence. In our environment, Corten outlasts conventional steel by decades. While standard steel might rust through in 10–15 years, a properly executed Corten feature is designed to last 50 to 100 years.

How does Corten hold up against wet soil?

Corten’s protective patina thrives on "wet and dry" cycles. In the PNW, the exterior of a planter dries out, but the soil-facing interior can stay damp for months, which can accelerate deterioration.

• The Refined Solution: To ensure your investment lasts a lifetime, we offer an optional Internal Epoxy Shield. We can seal the interior walls with a high-grade, non-toxic epoxy coating. This creates an impermeable barrier that allows the exterior to age beautifully while the interior remains structurally pristine. With this added layer of protection, you’ll receive RMW’s Lifetime Guarantee.

Does the metal get too hot for the plants?

In direct summer sun, uninsulated steel can cause soil temperatures to rise, which can stress sensitive root systems and lead to faster evaporation.

• The Refined Solution: To protect your botanical investment, we offer an optional Integrated Thermal Shield. We line the interior of our planters with high-density, rigid foam insulation. This creates a thermal break that regulates soil temperature during extreme heat and provides an extra layer of protection during winter frost cycles.

Is Corten right for my garden?

Corten is ideal for clients who appreciate natural evolution. If you love the way a landscape changes with the seasons and want a material that feels "earthy" yet modern, Corten is perfect. However, if you prefer a perfectly uniform, unchanging color (like a black powder-coated finish), we can discuss our other high-durability finish options.

Why does it cost more than standard steel?

Corten is a specialized, high-performance alloy. Unlike standard carbon steel, its chemical composition includes a precise blend of Copper, Chromium, Nickel, and Phosphorus. These elements work together to create the "weathering" effect—forming a dense, protective oxidation layer that prevents the metal from deep corrosion.

Because of this unique makeup, the material requires artisan-grade welding techniques and careful shop handling to ensure the patina develops into a deep, even character. When you choose Corten, you aren’t just paying for metal—you’re investing in a century-long lifecycle and a maintenance-free architectural feature.

Ready to integrate Corten into your next project?

Whether you need custom planters, hillside stairs, or a signature water feature, we're here to ensure it’s built to last. [Contact Jordan for a Consultation]