What is COR-TEN Steel?

The Story of COR-TEN Steel

COR-TEN or weathering steel was developed in the 1930s by US Steel. It is a steel alloy that develops a rusted patina over time when exposed to the elements. The rusted patina is a protective oxide film comprised of copper, manganese, silicon, and nickel that provides corrosion resistance.

It has been used in several famous buildings that showcase the beauty of this timeless yet modern material. Structures like the John Deere World Headquarters in Illinois; this building has been aging for the last 60 years as it was the first to use COR-TEN for an architecture project.

Longevity, Unique Appearance, and Minimal Maintenance

Originally developed to help build railroad coal wagons, the success of the COR-TEN led to it being prominent source material for outdoor art projects and construction in the 1960s. Rust prevention helps to eliminate the need for painting long-lasting outdoor pieces. The steel has now been used for decades by architects and artists alike to help provide a unique style to a design that can last up to 100 years.

A Landscape Option That Surpasses Competitors

In recent years, the steel has made its way into the landscape world offering a sleek appearance that far surpasses any competitor. The orange-brown color in the patina that arises as the material ages comes from the 5% copper content in the alloy mixture. This bold color contrasts well with the vibrant colors often found in landscapes.

Edge Right Has Perfected the Art of Using Weathering Steel

The term COR-TEN refers to the tensile strength and the corrosion resistance of the material. Edge Right uses variety A606-4 - thick enough to stay straight and not flex after installing. This provides a thick hard edge for that clean modern appearance that can't be found with over-the-counter, flimsy edging available at local retailers.