What is the weathering steel?

Weathering steel is a low-carbon metal that contains additional alloy elements, including nickel and copper, which provides the metal better strength and resilience to corrosion. In addition, it is more affordable than other substances such as galvanized steel. Of course, this material isn’t ideal for every project or location.

The surface begins with a top coat made of copper, phosphorus, and silicon. It forms a textured oxide surface film on the panel and as time passes, and the panel is exposed to the different weather elements like rain or snow, it begins rusting into a unique color.

Weathering steel is extremely resistant to corrosion caused by weather and other atmospheric conditions. Once the top coating is gone, the steel ionizes, which makes it so the steel does not continue to rust and you won’t have to worry about the panel being rusted all the way through. The base layer of steel will last just as long as other finishes — so you can expect your roof or siding to last between 40 and 70 years.

Weathered steel finishes outperform many carbon steels that display a coarse, flaky oxide. This finish is becoming more and more popular for homeowners, builders, and commercial property owners because each panel rusts into its own one-of-a-kind color and look.