Material & care
Everything you need to know about our surfaces, how they develop and how to care for them.
A surface that protects itself
Corten steel is a weathering structural steel. Exposure to the weather forms a barrier layer on its surface. It protects the material from further corrosion and creates the typical patina in warm, earthy tones. Corten steel needs no paint and is recyclable.
ODCUBE uses Corten A steel. The name stands for corrosion resistance and tensile strength.
How the patina forms.
On delivery
The objects are usually only lightly rusted. We start the rusting process right after shaping, using our own method.
After two to three weeks
The typical rust patina develops. A good protective layer needs alternating dry and wet weather.
After two to three years
The process is usually complete.
What to look out for.
Colour
Cold and high humidity can darken the surface. Differences in colour even out over time.
Discolouration when air is excluded
Without air – for example in airtight packaging or under protective film – a young surface can turn black. After a few weeks outdoors, the rust colour usually returns by itself.
Location
Water can wash off rust particles and stain neighbouring surfaces such as natural stone. Bear this in mind when choosing the location.
Raised beds and slugs
In Corten steel raised beds, the copper content of about 1 % reacts with slug slime. In most cases this stops slugs.
Cleaning Corten steel
- CleanRemove light dirt and rust deposits with soap, water and a soft cloth.
- AvoidDo not use acidic cleaners: they break down the patina and exclude warranty claims.
- TestTest every cleaning product on a small area first.
Galvanised and powder-coated
- Base2 mm steel sheets, electro-galvanised inside and out
- CoatingFine epoxy powder coating, applied in a three-stage process, without solvents
- ProtectionAgainst corrosion and scratches, weather-resistant
- ColoursAvailable in all RAL colours
- Suitable forIndoors and outdoors
