What is CorTen steel?

CorTen steel is a raw material that is particularly popular with architects, designers and decorators. It is developed from an alloy of metals that gives it specific, long-lasting aesthetic properties.

Highly resistant to the elements, this type of steel can be used outdoors to create garden ornaments, fountains, water features, braziers and other design objects. So Corten, a company specialising in outdoor products made from CorTen steel in Belgium, explains everything you need to know about this material

What does the name CorTen mean?

A closer look at the word reveals a great deal. The term Cor-Ten is a contraction of two English terms:

• COR, for CORrosion resistance, refers to the metal's resistance to corrosion;
• TEN, for TENsile strength, indicates the metal's resistance to traction.

This dual resistance is the result of the composition of its alloy, a US Steel invention dating back to 1933.

How is CorTen steel made?

CorTen is a steel alloy to which copper, phosphorus, chromium, nickel and molybdenum have been added. These various elements increase its resistance to corrosion by the early formation of a protective rust layer. 

This patina is obtained gradually, month by month, with complete maturity after 3 years.

And it is this protective corrosion, stable and controlled, that improves its durability.

CorTen steel is produced in the form of thin, lightweight sheets, which are then used in construction as well as in decorative and outdoor equipment to create a solid, timeless product.

The benefits of CorTen steel

Although only a few millimetres thick, CorTen steel has a number of benefits. Such as:

• High structural strength steel (double that of standard steel);
• No need for varnishing to withstand the weather, as it is naturally 6 to 8 times more resistant than traditional steel;
• Versatile, thanks to its flexibility of application;
• Original and decorative, with its shades of red and orange.

Uses for CorTen steel in Belgium

CorTen steel has a wide range of uses, in architecture, industrial design and decoration, for example:

• For the construction of building structures and bridges;
• For exterior cladding;
• For the freight industry (sea containers, rail and road vehicles);
• For the manufacture of decorative indoor and outdoor fittings, such as pots for plants that are as elegant as they are strong;
• For public works of art.

The So-Corten range

Our e-shop features hard-wearing outdoor fittings in CorTen steel, including braziers, barbecues and fireplaces, wood storage and water features. To find out more about our products, please call us directly or fill in the online contact form.