A Quick Guide To Corten Steel Fire Pits

A Guide To Corten Steel Fire Pits

You may or may not have heard of Corten steel fire pits. It's the up and coming material of choice for fire bowls, baskets and fire tables, making them the MUST HAVE firepits to keep you warm long into the night.

Not only will it be the decorative focal point of your garden, it's low maintenance and you can choose an attractive design, shape and size to suit you. 

DID YOU KNOW? 

The Angel Of The North, the beautiful structure in the north east is made from Corten steel weighing in at 200 tonnes, and is one of the most recognised pieces of art ever produced. This magnificent creation withstands winds of more than 100mph and will last over 100 years thanks to the corrosion resistant material.

• What is corten steel? 

• Why is corten steel so popular?

• Is corten steel environmentally friendly?

• How to rust corten steel?

• How long does corten steel take to rust?

• How to seal corten steel?

• Is corten steel easy to maintain? 

What is Corten steel? 

Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is a type of steel that weathers naturally over time. It develops a unique, attractive and protective layer of rust when exposed to weather. This coat will protect against further corrosion and will keep the under layer of steel in good condition. 

The name Corten explained - 

COR - corrosion resistant

TEN - tensile strength

Because of the elements that are active in the alloys of steel, the protective layer develops. This renews constantly when subjected to the influence of water and oxygen. 

It can take up to 12 months of exterior exposure for the rust condition to stabilise. During this time it can bleed, meaning some rust will run off onto the surrounding area which can leave a stain. However, you can accelerate this process very easily and have the corten look in a matter of a few weeks.

Avoid positioning your fire pit directly onto wood or a decking area as it will become extremely hot when lit. Also avoid any light coloured paving slabs or stones where the rust bleed will be visible. Other surfaces like gravel or darker coloured paving slabs or stones will be better and won't highlight the stain as much, or instead you can use a steel heat proof mat to put under your firepit, protecting the surface beneath.

Why is Corten Steel So Popular? 

Corten steel fire pits will be the top choice if you're looking for low maintenance and long lasting wood burning fire pit. Thanks to the protective layer of rust that naturally occurs, they don't need any painting or weather proofing and there will be no compromise to the structural strength

Not only is Corten steel a strong and durable material, it's stylish and rustic, making it a popular choice of material for a firepit. 

There are so many Corten options to chose from, from fire bowls and baskets to fire tables. Corten fire bowls and baskets come in all shapes and sizes with some really decorative designs. Each one will over time develop its own unique rust coat.

You can chose different sizes and shapes giving you the option of a portable, free standing fire pit

Is Corten Steel Eco Friendly? 

• Corten steel is non toxic

• It's 100% recyclable

• Because of the natural development of the protective rust layer, there is no need for any corrosion protective treatment

• A corten steel fire pit will last many years longer than a regular metal fire pit, the anti corrosion qualities is 8 times better than regular steel

• This helps the environment by generating much less wastage

How to Rust Corten Steel?

When corten steel is delivered to you, it is usually in the pre-rust stage, it will look like regular mild metal a gun metal colour.

There are two very easy ways to accelerate the rusting process, so that you can quickly achieve that lovely reddy/brown colour.

The first is simply to use a salt water spray or you can use a chemical based solution that has the same effect. We prefer salt water every time. We have written much more about this process, check it out.

How Long Does Corten Steel Take to Rust

This will depend on the environment and weather conditions. In the middle of summer with little rain or if you live in hot dry climate this process will take many months. In these circumstances it might be wiser to accelerate this process by using a salt water spray.

In the middle of winter, in a wet environment this process will start immediately and may only take a few weeks. When this process starts make sure not to cover the corten steel, you want it to be exposed to the elements so that it can be uniformly rusted. By covering, it is possible that you will create run off streaks.

The best part once the corten steel is fully rusted, it is now fully protected from further rusting!

How to Stop Corten Steel Rusting?

We say don't, but if you do there are sealants that you can buy that will prevent the rusting. These sealants will need to be applied regularly to ensure it maintains the appearance you desire.

Is Corten Steel Easy to Maintain?

Yes, very!

To prolong the lifespan of your Corten firepit we do recommend you clean it regularly. All you need to do is remove any ash or debris and use a sturdy brush and some hot water to give it a scrub, inside and out and either dry with a cloth, or leave in a clean and clear area to dry thoroughly.

Always remember to make sure your firepit / bowl has cooled completely before removing any ash. Never attempt to remove ash or clean it immediately after use, always leave at least 24 hours.