The Unique & Evolving
Steel Finish
A Unique Steel Finish For Traditional & Modern Exterior Design
Weathering Steel, often referred to as Corten or Indaten, is a distinctive material that brings both durability and artistry to modern architecture. Its natural ability to form a stable, rust-like patina creates a striking appearance that evolves beautifully over time. Architects and designers often choose Weathering Steel to add warmth, texture, and character to building exteriors, transforming facades into living surfaces that change with the seasons.
Beyond its unique aesthetics, Weathering Steel is highly resistant to atmospheric corrosion, making it an ideal choice for exterior applications such as cladding, accent walls, canopies and other architectural applications. Whether used in modern designs or to complement natural landscapes, Weathering Steel offers a timeless look that merges industrial strength with organic beauty—perfect for bold architectural statements.
Development of the Rust Patina
The rust ‘patina’ develops under conditions of alternate wetting and drying to produce a protective barrier that impedes further access of oxygen, moisture, and pollutants, providing a unique aesthetic to the steel structure.
See below for how Weathering Steel develops its rust patina over time from initial installation to over 2 years of development.
Panels at Installation
Panels After 2 Months
Panels After 2 Years
Project Gallery
Click on a photo to view colour & finish details
Product Cautions
Special attention must be paid to the drainage of storm water to prevent staining of surrounding structures, sidewalks and other surfaces.
The tight oxide skin of Weathering Steel reforms after abrasion from snow, ice, sand, dirt and hail. As the skin reforms the product becomes thinner and eventually will be perforated.
Weathering Steel must be kept free from debris such as leaves, pine needles, soil etc. These waste products impede the wet/dry cycle necessary for Weathering Steel, resulting in accelerated corrosion as well as further thinning and eventual perforation of the product.
Please note: Weathering Steel ships with an oiled coating and is slippery when handled. Please DO NOT stand on panels while installing as surface is slippery and unsafe to walk on.
Weathering Steel is also not recommended in valleys or larger roof applications.
Want The Look Without the Rust?
We carry a Speciality Finish called “Rustic“. Similar to our Weathering Steel finish, this 24 gauge steel is made of a printed pattern that reflects the look of a fully-developed rust patina. This pre-painted finish will not physically rust, but gives the same appearance and aesthetic as our weathered steel and can be used in any application.
Learn More on Our Blog
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Where to Buy Forma Steel
We distribute through a network of Forma Steel dealers throughout Western Canada and beyond. We can work with you to acquire the right materials and designs for any creative vision from conception to final physical form.
Ask for Forma Steel at your local building supply store or lumber yard. Or check out our Where to Buy map below!