When you first receive your Corten Steel products they will arrive in an un-weathered or partly weathered condition. Once placed outside the weathering process will begin. This can take some time; Corten Steel has a reactive patina period of between 3 and 9 months depending on location and climate. The patina or rust acts as a protective barrier - it will not penetrate or compromise the structural integrity of the material. The colouration of each item will vary as the weathering process takes place, eventually producing a rusty brown patina.
Our black burner accessories are finished with a RAL 9005 (jet black matt finish) heat resistant coating that will significantly delay the weathering process. In time, they will still develop a gentle patina, including rust spots, but given the nature of Corten Steel this will have no structural impact. Whilst such a finish is often considered desirable, it can be restored at any time through sanding and re-coating.
During the weathering process the Corten Steel produces carbon run off or staining to adjacent materials such as stone or concrete. To reduce this possible staining, some Corten Steel products are supplied with small feet or a stand, lifting the product and preventing direct contact with the flooring material. After the initial reactive period Corten Steel will cure and self-seal with little to no carbon run off. The weathering process of Corten Steel is integral to this product and as such we will not accept any responsibility for damage caused to surrounding materials as a result of carbon run off from Corten Steel products. Please ensure you do not place your product on any surface that may be damaged during the weathering process.