If you’ve been searching for a product with high strength, low maintenance, and a one-of-a-kind appearance, look no further than weathering steel. This natural metal develops an orange-brown oxidizing finish overtime that helps keep it resistant to corrosive elements. While weathering steel has been used in construction for years, it’s recently become more commonly used as roofing and siding.
In addition to manufacturing metal roofing and siding panels in over 100 painted colors, we at Western States Metal Roofing also offer weathering steel roofing and siding panels. After noticing architects and contractors shifting towards weathering steel, we put together this article to discuss weathering steel’s benefits to help you decide if it’s the right material for your next project.
Why Is There An Increased Interest In Weathering Steel?
- Resin paint shortage
- More affordable
- Rustic trends
Resin Paint Shortage
‘Resin’ can be added to the very long list of goods that are experiencing a shortage in 2022. The chemical, which is one of the key ingredients in paint, began to become in shorter supply in 2021 which resulted in higher prices for paint, including the PVDF paint system used on metal roofing panels.
Thus far it looks as though 2022 will continue this trend with paint prices projected to continue to increase. This means that painted metal roofing panels will also continue to increase in price.
Using Corten or bare cold rolled weathering steel panels avoids the need for paint. Many have started to go this route as it allows you to do a metal roofing or siding project without having to incur the extra cost for paint or longer lead times for your painted material.
More Affordable
The price of steel went up significantly throughout 2020 and 2021. While it has started to level out, steel is still much higher than it was prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. Painted metal panels have always cost more than weathering steel, but now prices on all the products have gone up. For some projects, painted panels have gone too high for their allotted budgets, leaving Corten or bare cold rolled steel as more affordable solutions.
Rustic Trends
Rustic architecture, including rusted tin roofing, has become a growing trend over the last couple of years. Known for using natural materials such as wood, stone and steel, weathering steel has become more popular for this type of aesthetic which includes farmhouse and industrial design.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Weathering Steel?
- Superior corrosion resistance
- Rustic aesthetic
- Long lifespan
- Less expensive than painted panels
Superior Corrosion Resistance
Weathering steel contains a mixture of copper, chromium, manganese, and nickel in its protective layer. After the surface rust has developed, which usually occurs within six months of atmospheric exposure, the composition of the weathering steel gives it superior corrosion resistance and a greater ability to handle harsh climates compared to unalloyed steels. With the greater ability to resist rusting, weathering steel lasts for decades with little, if any, maintenance required.
Rustic Aesthetic
Aside from corrosion resistance, weathering steel is picked mostly for its appearance. The antique and natural look of weathering steel blends well with all different environments including desert, farmland, and mountain areas.
Long Lifespan
The protective patina layer that weathering steel forms allows it to have a long lifespan that can be anywhere from 40-60 years or longer.
Less Expensive Than Painted Panels
Painted metal panels can cost double or more compared to weathering steel panels.
What Is Weathering Steel Mostly Used For?
Weathering steel is made into many different types of products within the construction industry including:
- Corten Roofing
- Corten Siding
- Flat Sheets
- Plate
- Flat Bar
- Tube
- Pipe
- Angle
- Beams
- Channels
We have discussed weathering steel’s popularity for roofing and siding, but this material is also often used for bridges, handrails, flue gas structures, furniture and more.
Choosing Weathering Steel For Your Next Project
When you need a maximum strength, corrosion resistant material, trust weathering steel for your construction project.
If you are ready to use weathering steel on an upcoming project, now is the time to get your material list together and request a free quote today. Once you fill out our quick and easy form, a knowledgeable member from our sales team will be in touch shortly with a delivered price.
