Choose Graepels for Your Corten Steel Cladding
Steel cladding is a durable and versatile option for both architectural and industrial applications. It enhances the visual appeal of buildings while offering long-lasting protection against harsh environments. The term “steel” covers a wide range of iron-carbon alloys, including mild steel, galvanized steel, and stainless steel, each suited to different purposes depending on factors like strength, finish, and resistance.
At Graepels, we manufacture perforated steel cladding and steel wall panels in a range of materials, tailored to suit each project’s specific requirements. With decades of experience in precision sheet metal fabrication, our team works closely with architects, engineers, and contractors to deliver bespoke cladding solutions that combine strength, performance, and visual appeal.
The Benefits of Corten Steel Facades
It is essential to note that when using Corten steel for facades, the material must be given time to weather and stabilise. While the ageing process can be accelerated, it’s essential that the patina is fully formed before installation — otherwise, runoff may occur and cause staining on surrounding surfaces.
- Naturally weathering finish: Forms a rich rust-coloured patina that deepens over time.
- Aesthetic impact: Offers a bold, organic look that suits both modern and natural settings.
- Low maintenance: The patina protects against corrosion without the need for coatings. It is important to consider the weathering and stabilising of he panels when ordering as this may effect the installation date.
- Durable and long-lasting: Withstands tough environments while developing character.
- Striking mesh options: Corten mesh adds unique texture, contrast and visual depth.
- Supports functional design: Allows for airflow, shading and acoustic control when perforated.
- Flexible fabrication options: Can be folded, perforated or shaped to suit custom designs.
Why Choose Corten Steel Cladding Panels?
Corten steel is one of the most visually striking sheet metal cladding materials, chosen for both its evolving surface and robust structural properties. As the material forms its own protective layer, it does not require painting or coatings. This makes it a practical option for long-term applications in both public and private architecture. Its characterful appearance and low maintenance needs make it ideal for projects where both durability and design matter.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Corten Steel Cladding
A few key decisions will help ensure your Corten cladding performs exactly as required.
1. Choose Between Perforated or Mesh Panels
Perforated cladding in Corten steel allows you to add texture and light control while celebrating the material’s natural character.
Mesh cladding offers a structural yet open finish, suitable for screens, enclosures or decorative features where airflow is required.
2. Choose the Correct Panel Sheet
Sheet size: Standard options include 2mx1m, 2.5mx1.25m and 3mx1.5m. Larger sizes such as 4mx2m and up to 6m are available on request.
Sheet thickness: Popular thicknesses range from 0.75mm to 3mm other thicknesses are considered difficult to handle and potentially increase issues
How many sheets will you need? This depends on your coverage area, layout and fixing requirements. Our team is happy to help calculate quantities.
3. Pick the Right Design for Your Project
Designing with Corten means accounting for both its raw and weathered states. The steel starts out grey and smooth, then transitions to a deep orange-brown finish as it patinates over time. This transformation should be considered in both visual planning and layout.
Aperture: Choose from a wide range of perforation sizes (1.5mm to 20mm) with other larger apertures available on request for bespoke pattern.
Percentage open area: Standard tooling allows for an open area ranging from 0% to 60%, or up to 80% when using woven wire mesh. Customisation is available, and airflow can be further enhanced by forming panels into 3D shapes, depending on the design.
Picture perf: Turn illustrations, signage, or custom branding into functional metal surfaces that age beautifully with time.
4. Consider Any Additional Finishes or Fabrication
Even though Corten is designed to weather naturally, you may still need fabrication support depending on your application.
Finishes: Corten is typically left untreated to develop its patina, but it can be pre-weathered or treated for uniformity if desired. It can also be double brushed or shot blasted – note these are costly but add texture and can be useful for faster patina, it’s aesthetically pleasing and provides added grip when used as flooring.
Fabrication: We offer folding, bolt holing, roll bending, flattening and more to help deliver a complete cladding solution.
Which Industries Choose Us for Their Corten Steel Cladding?
Graepels manufactures Corten steel cladding panels for use across architecture, public spaces, and industrial design. Typical applications include:
- Commercial buildings, including retail, office, and hospitality spaces
- Cultural institutions such as museums, galleries, and theatres
- Public art and sculptures, where weathering and texture add lasting character
- Hospitality projects, including restaurants, resorts and leisure spaces
- Transport and infrastructure, where robustness and appearance are both required
- Mixed-use developments seeking cohesive and expressive urban identity
- Retrofit and renovation projects, adding new life and character to existing buildings
Bring Your Project to Life with Graepels Corten Steel
Corten cladding doesn’t just cover a building, it transforms it. At Graepels, we work with architects, designers, and engineers to fabricate cladding solutions that embrace weathering, texture, and timeless design.
From concept visuals to finished panels, we’re here to help you realise the full potential of Corten. Let’s create something that looks better with every season. Contact our team to discuss specifications, samples or project ideas.