Corten is the term used to cover a variety of ASTM grades for weathering steel.  The most common ones being A847, A588, and A606. Read more.

Both are weathering steel specs, but A847 is tube, and A588 is plate and other shapes. See the full explanation.

Corten will start to weather in a few months after outdoor installation. The patina can take up to two years to fully develop, depending on exposure and environment, and will continue to age over its lifetime. Read more.

The steel will change in color, changing from a light orange to a deeper brown, depending on exposure to rain, snow, and drying cycles. Usually by 18 months, the steel has developed full coverage.  See the full explanation.

Yes – and the process is the same as any other steel welding. Just be sure to use filler materials that weather and blend properly with Corten. See our welding guide.

No.  Corten needs to be exposed to the environment if you want the steel to weather. See more details.

Tubeco stocks a wide range of Corten steel tube sizes and wall thicknesses. We ship across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico from our warehouse near St. Louis, Missouri.  See full inventory.

Cleaning is generally not needed, as it will re-weather on its own.  If paint or markings need to be removed simply clean with paint remover of your choice and rinse with water.  The weathering process will start again.  See more details.

No, the final patina color can’t be precisely controlled, and will continue to evolve over many years based on exposure and environment.  Read more about this.