Corten Steel (also known as weathering steel) is a great material for outdoor commercial signs or architectural embellishments. When left to the elements this low-carbon metal will create a beautiful rusty patina that forms a protective layer to prevent rust from developing deeper in to the steel thus maintaining its strength.
Corten was first developed by U.S. Steel in 1933. The name Corten, or COR-TEN as it’s trademarked, refers to its corrosion resistance and tensile strength. Originally used primarily for railroad cars weathered steel has become an increasingly popular material for buildings, bridges, and outdoor sculptures.
Corten Steel is a great material for exterior commercial signs. The patina on the signs eliminates the need for paint and can last for decades with little to no maintenance. It usually takes up to six months for the sign to develop a full patina but this process can be dramatically sped up using a solution of hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, and sea salt.
With it’s vintage, rustic look and incredible strength it’s no wonder more and more people are choosing Corten for their exterior commercial sign needs.