If you’ve been searching for the perfect rustic look for your metal roof or siding, weathered steel will take your expectations to a new level. Weathered steel is a finish that will be completely unique to every project, every time. You may hear it referred to as a Corten or Truten A606, both of which are just different names used to describe the finish. Weathering steel creates an unbelievable, one-of-a-kind look. As the finish is exposed to different types of weather, it begins to rust into a gorgeous, rustic look over time.
How Does Weathering Steel Work?
The weathered steel finish begins with a top coat made of copper, phosphorus and silicon. It forms a textured oxide surface film on the panel and as time passes, and the panel is exposed to the different weather elements like rain or snow, it begins rusting into a unique patina-like color.
Weathering steel is extremely resistant to corrosion caused by weather and other atmospheric conditions. Once the coating is gone, the steel ionizes, which makes it so the steel does not continue to rust and you won’t have to worry about the panel being rusted all the way through. The base layer of steel will last just as long as other finishes (so you can expect your roof or siding to last between 40 and 70 years).
Weathered steel finishes outperform many carbon steels that display a coarse, flaxy oxide. This finish is becoming more and more popular for homeowners, builders and commercial property owners because each panel rusts into its own one-of-a-kind color and look. Depending on the area and climate you live in, the panels will weather differently. Some may take slightly longer to weather and some could potentially be slightly different colors. That’s the beauty of weathering steel—it’s completely unique to you!
FAQS about Weathering Steel
1. How thick is Weathering Steel?
Weathering steel is typically available in up to 22-gauge metal panels, which can be used for both metal roofing and metal siding. Gauge refers to the thickness of a metal panel, and can vary based on your panel provider.
2. What metal panel types are available?
The weathered steel finish is commonly available on the following types of metal panel profiles: corrugated, standing seam, and batten panels. Again, this availability can vary based on your metal panel provider.
3. Will the rust from the weather steel finish stain the surrounding areas?
Yes. As the steel rusts, it will run and potentially stain any other materials around it. It’s important to recognize this will happen before installing weathered steel metal panels.
4. Do the metal panels come pre-rusted?
Typically, the answer is no. You will likely receive the panels with top coat completely intact. As the panels are exposed to the weather over time, they will then begin to rust and create the unique look of weathering steel.
5. Can you weather the panels yourself?
Yes, any moisture added to the panel will help it weather faster. You can use a mixture of detergent (like dish soap) and water solution to start the process. Basically, any added moisture or water will speed up the weathering process by removing the top oil coating.
Weathering steel creates an unbelievable, one-of-a-kind look. As the finish is exposed to different types of weather, it begins to rust into a gorgeous, rustic look over time.
Warranty Information
Currently, weathering metal does not have a warranty due to its characteristics. Since weathered steel naturally weathers and rusts, and that process can be slowed down or quickened by different environments, the product carries no warranty. Different applications across different climate types will see different, beautiful results. You should contact your metal panel provider for more information or any questions regarding your product’s warranty.
Kaylee Beattie is a copywriter for Bozeman, Mont.-based Bridger Steel, a metal panel manufacturer. She can be contacted at marketing@bridgersteel.com. To learn more, visit bridgersteel.com.