So far we have touched on the general form of weathering steel, we have discussed its use in buildings and other construction projects, let's discuss the best practices for growing plants in weathering steel breeding beds. Similarly, the atmospheric resistance of weather-resistant steel MATS actually makes them more resistant to corrosion than other materials in most environments. But using CorT-Ten and understanding the process of patina formation will help you determine the best location and use.
There are a number of uses for weathering steel outside of large buildings. One of the best advances in the production of ordinary weathering steel has been the creation of stylish and eye-catching garden beds. These weathering steel beds come in a variety of forms, and consumers can choose from traditional nurseries (such as Birdies Urban Short 9-in-1) or even small planter beds that can be placed on top of railings or counters. There are even round flower POTS, perfect for any city gardener.
As they rust, the yield strength of the steel alloy regenerates, improving the appearance and corrosion resistance of the bed surface exposed to the elements.
Because weathering steel beds lose their alloy rust and surface material, it is best to keep them on the ground or in a place where they will not lose. In commercial complexes, flowerpots may be placed on sidewalks and the weathering steel surface will seep into the surface, especially after a rainy day. Although this is not a structural problem, as the alloy is constantly regenerated as the metal rusts, this runoff material can accumulate on any surface the bed is placed on. If you want to know how to clean any stains that are forming, check out the last section of this article.
It's not a threat to the environment or the plants you grow. The yield strength of the metal is the same as the speed at which it is placed directly on the ground. This is more of an aesthetic consideration, as the metal can stain the concrete without constant monitoring and maintenance. If there is a flow of weathering steel onto the surface, it should be cleaned immediately by continuous cleaning or power cleaning of the surface. Otherwise, you can place the weathering steel bed on rust-colored gravel, cardboard or simple dirt to prevent staining.
Another interesting topic for weathering steel beds is that consumers have the ability to accelerate their own corrosion to the desired style. The beds are shipped directly from the factory and embalmed prior to arrival. Once this layer is exposed to weather patterns, it gradually disappears and a natural rusting process occurs on the metal surface. But at home, you can synthesize weathering steel to rust to the color you want.
To accelerate the rusting of a weathering steel bed, fill a spray bottle with 2 ounces of vinegar, half a teaspoon of salt, and 16 ounces of hydrogen peroxide. Shake the bottle vigorously to combine the ingredients. Wear gloves and goggles. Spray the entire metal pot. If the texture on the pot needs to be smooth, wipe it down with a towel. This accelerates the development of verdigris and forms a protective coating on the oxidized metal. Repeat this process over time, allowing it to dry between treatments until your metal pot achieves the look you want.
The process of accelerating corrosion of your weathering steel bed is easy and can occur in multiple applications with homemade solutions. This is another benefit of using weathering steel in the garden.
Once you have oxidized the weathering steel, or once it has reached the natural oxidation you want, you can seal the metal to prevent further rust. There are a lot of sealant on the market are suitable for this kind of project. Polyurethane based sealants are the best. Note that sealing will darken the appearance of the bed. That's why it's best to test the seals before identifying them. To do this, select a small area of the bed and apply sealant. Let it dry completely. Then check the color to see if it matches the look you want. If you are happy with the finished look, apply sealant to the entire outside of the bed.
Let's say you've put your bed on a concrete surface and you have a stain. No problem at all! You can test this cleaning solution on a small patch of pavement to make sure it produces the results you want. Find a bottle of vinegar or lemon juice. Pour one (or a mixture of both) over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the area with a wire brush and rinse off the cleaner. Reuse the solution and repeat the process as needed to remove the stain.
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