Eco-friendliness and sustainability have become increasingly important considerations for many homeowners in their choices of materials for outdoor structures and landscaping. One popular material that has long been a top choice for many homeowners in outdoor design is Corten steel. However, does Corten steel align with eco-friendly principles? In this post, we take a closer look at the sustainability of Corten steel and its environmental benefits to help you make a more well-informed decision when it comes to the materials you use for your outdoor designs.
Sustainable Features of Corten Steel
There are several features that make Corten steel unique and sustainable, including:
Lifespan and Durability
Corten steel is one of the most durable types of steel. The protective patina that develops on Corten steel over time helps to prevent it from deteriorating whilst also providing it with its iconic weathered look. This in turn results in Corten steel having a relatively long lifespan when used in various outdoor applications, reducing the need for replacement compared to other materials or even other types of steel and enhancing its sustainability.
Minimal Maintenance Needs
Compared to other types of steel, Corten steel also has significantly lower maintenance needs. This is because it does not need to be painted to protect it from rusting since its unique patina already does that job. Corten steel also does not require any coatings or chemical treatments and this reduces the environmental impact that it can have as compared to other types of steel.
Recyclability
At the end of its lifespan or whenever you decide it’s time for a change of scenery, Corten steel is also very easily recyclable. Unlike some materials that require complex processing or cannot be recycled, Corten steel can be melted down and fully repurposed without losing its strength or structural integrity. This makes it a very sustainable material that can be efficiently reintroduced into the steel supply chain, enhancing its sustainability.
Potential Environmental Concerns
While Corten steel is also not without its potential environmental concerns, these concerns can typically be alleviated with proper management. For instance, one potential concern is that early-stage rust runoff can lead to the staining of nearby materials. However, this can be mitigated with the implementation of a good drainage system and proper placement of drainage solutions to ensure that the runoff is diverted away from potentially affected areas.
Ensuring Sustainability at the Highest Level
If sustainability and eco-friendliness are top concerns for you, then you would probably want to ensure that the steel you are using is sustainable, even at the highest level of the production process. RW Steel is the premier supplier of steel and steel products in Melbourne. Beyond ensuring that the quality of the steel we offer is unbeatable, we also focus on environmental friendliness and incorporate sustainable practices into our everyday processes. To find out more about the products and services we have on offer, simply leave us a message today!
Image Source: Dillinger Group