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Corten Steel planters have become quite a common choice for planters and estate owners. And it isn’t just because Corten steel makes great planter boxes. It is also popular for the aesthetic view that it creates. Recently, Corten steel has witnessed a boom in the market. People are readily using it for landscaping besides many other aesthetic purposes.
Ever since its development in the US in the 1930s, Corten steel has been a prominent material for outdoor projects. Being the aesthetic, efficient and durable material that it is, Corten has become a go-to-choice for several leading architects and landscape designers worldwide.
To the people who are looking ahead to get outdoor Corten steel planters, this blog is for you. Read on, as we explain everything you need to know before investing in Corten Steel Planters boxes. In the following piece, we have discussed various aspects concerning Corten steel planters and their benefits. Also, have we addressed some of the most commonly asked questions about the same.
Corten Steel Defined
Popularly nicknamed the weathered steel, the Corten steel refers to a group of steel alloys. It is frequently used in outdoor art projects and constructions. This weathered steel is widely known for its tensile strength and durability. Corten was initially designed to eliminate the need to maintain the steel if left outside for a prolonged period. It included frequently painting the material or controlling the exposure environment to optimize durability.
Corten steel was first developed in the 1930s. It was the United States of America that developed this much-needed commodity. It was designed to build railroad coal wagons. The success with coal wagons was the kickstart to Corten’s immense popularity. Since then, it has been used in outdoor projects for various purposes.
Did you know that the word Corten in Corten steel refers to COR-TEN?
Here, the COR comes from corrosion resistance and TEN from tensile strength. When exposed to the eternal elements, the Corten steel develops a rusted appearance. Unlike how it appears, this rust layer doesn’t deteriorate the material. It rather forms a protective layer that safeguards the structure from further corrosion. The patina layer slows the corrosion process. And it would take, at least, a decade for the steel to weaken. While using Corten steel, one doesn’t have to worry about painting or weatherproofing the material from time and then. While protecting the structure, the rust layer also creates an appealingly earthy and aesthetic look.
What are Corten Steel Planters?
Did you ever take notice of those huge containers having plants in the landscapes and gardens outside the estate properties?
What do you think those boxes could be?
Well, those decorative containers with plants are just what we call the planters. The gardens with steel planters have been a trend amidst landscape designers. For a long time, the designers have looked for a material that could last for a long time and be just as appealing in visuals. And they found exactly what they needed in Corten Steel.
Even with the presence of soil, moisture, and plants, the Corten Steel Planters boxes outlast wood. And with just minimal maintenance, they remain intact enough to be used as outdoor planters for decades.
Outdoor Corten Steel Planters in Garden
Even with all the aesthetics and ergonomics, the gardens and fences are all about creating pleasant, earthy, and natural views. The outdoor Corten steel planters would not just facilitate you with a good gardening ground. They’d also help you grow healthy plants (edibles, too) for a long time to come. Luckily, you wouldn’t have to worry about how your backyard, garden or fence, or outdoor fire pit looks. Because at the end of the day, brown, rust color always steals the view, no matter where it is used.
When out in the market to purchase outdoor Corten steel planters, you might find it costlier against the wood. But the fact that Corten planters last a lifetime while wood is durable for only a couple of years balances it all. Besides, you wouldn’t be required to spend a fortune maintaining them.
In terms of budget-friendliness, durability, and efficiency, Corten Steel Planters Boxes outshine its competitors with shining colors. Rest assured, you can either go for ready-to-use planters or build your own via Corten steel sheets just as you like.
Also, check – What Types of Tiles to Use in Swimming Pools?
Benefits of Corten Steel Planters Boxes
The weathering steel makes an ideal material for outdoor planters. It is durable, versatile, lasts for a long time, and, most importantly, it needs very little maintenance. There comes an extensive list of benefits to using the Corten Steel Planters boxes. The following are the benefits of using outdoor Corten steel planters:
- Low-cost maintenance
- No pre-treatment or painting required
- Longevity
- There stays a protective layer under the top layer of rust that prevents corrosion
- Corrosion-resistant
- Tensile strength
- Frost-resistant
- Becomes strong and hard over time
- Aesthetic look that sits well with all the schemes
Common Concerns with Corten Steel Boxes Planters and Boxes
Despite it being a good substitute for metals, there are concerns around Corten Steel. And we respect those. This section of the blog shall throw light on those concerns.
The layer of rust signifies aging and deterioration of metal, does it not?
Yes, it does. But it is different with Corten. There lies a protective layer beneath the layer of rust. This special protective layer prevents corrosion. Although it doesn’t stop the corrosion, it most certainly slows down the process which eventually extends the longevity.
Corten Steel needs to maintain a stable wet/dry cycle to last for a long time. But as they say, moisture and water are like the two eternal enemies to metal. And although Corten has high tolerance against corrosion, it is still recommended to arrange your Corten steel planters in a place with the proper drainage system.
Rust Runoff can be an issue, at times. As you know, the Corten steel planters have a rusty texture. And the rusty layer can potentially stain your concrete, brick, or pavers. We suggest you store your planter away from stain-prone surfaces. You can use pebbles. You can also choose to seal the planter to prevent rust runoff.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Corten Steel?
Corten steel, in the simplest terms, can be defined as a group of steel alloys that are prominently used for outdoor constructions. Made using a combination of steels and alloys, Corten steel is known for its longevity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness under adverse environments. Over time, it forms a rust-like protective layer to prevent corrosion and stabilize the structure of the metal.
2. How much do Corten Planters cost?
Corten planters are renowned for their budget-friendliness. But when compared against the wood and other materials, they come out as a significantly expensive choice. However, considering the vast set of benefits, the cost comes out to be pretty good.
To reduce the costs, you can go for individual Corten steel sheets and assemble them by yourself.
3. How long do Corten Steel Planters boxes last?
One of the defining characteristics of Corten steel planters is their longevity. When kept in a suitable environment, your Corten steel planter can last for about 25 years. In adverse conditions, a Corten steel lasts for, at least, 10-years.
