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.