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Care & Maintenance of CORTEN™ steel
To get Corten steel (weathering steel) to rust quickly when new, you need to accelerate the oxidation process. Here’s how you can do it:
Method 1: Vinegar & Hydrogen Peroxide Spray
1. Clean the Surface:
o Remove any oil or mill scale with a degreaser or acetone.
o Wash with soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Rusting Solution:
o Mix 50% white vinegar, 40% hydrogen peroxide (3% or stronger), and 10% salt in a spray bottle.
3. Spray & Repeat:
o Spray the solution evenly over the surface.
o Let it dry, then repeat the process every few hours.
o Rust should start forming within minutes to hours and deepen over several days.
Method 2: Salt Water & Sunlight
1. Clean the Surface as in step 1 above.
2. Mix a Strong Salt Solution:
o Dissolve ½ cup of salt into 1 liter of warm water.
o Spray or brush the solution onto the steel.
3. Expose to Sun & Moisture:
o Leave the steel outdoors.
o Repeat spraying daily until the desired patina forms (usually within a week).
Method 3: Acid Wash for Faster Results
1. Clean the Surface as above.
2. Use Diluted Hydrochloric or Muriatic Acid (Optional - Use with Caution)
o Mix one part acid with ten parts water.
o Brush or spray the solution onto the steel.
o Let it react for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
o The rusting process should start immediately.
Maintenance & Sealing
Once you’ve achieved the desired rusted look, consider:
- Rinsing with water to remove excess salts.
- Sealing with Penetrol or a matte clear coat to prevent further rusting and staining.