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USING STEEL IN YOUR LANDSCAPE

landscaping / December 17, 2019

USING STEEL IN YOUR LANDSCAPE

Since the birth of the steel industry during the Industrial Revolution, steel has become a common feature in landscape and garden design. Durable and versatile, its unique appearance is appreciated by designers all over the world. Two of the most widely used types of steel in landscape design are stainless steel and weathering steel.

STAINLESS STEEL

Stainless steel was invented in 1912 and found initial applications as a building cladding material, gaining popularity during the Art Deco period. The Chrysler Building in Manhattan, New York, is a wonderful example of this, with the terraced crown clad in a radiating sunburst pattern of ribbed and riveted stainless steel.

Stainless steel is extremely versatile for exterior uses. It is also lightweight and easy to transport. Furthermore, the metal offers a unique combination of aesthetic and mechanical benefits. Stainless steel can be sculptural as well as practical and the polished reflective surface works well in a garden setting, catching images and directing light. It is also one of the most recycled material in the construction industry. This is such a plus when it comes to sustainability and making a positive impact on the environment. 

While its cost is initially high, its benefits provide long-term returns ensuring designers around the world continue to find new ways to utilise this material in their designs.

MODERN HERB PLANTERS

This client wanted a no/low maintenance sideward that could be used for outdoor barbequing and an area for the kids to run their bikes. The herb planters were a fun funky addition to add a vertical element and provide easy access for the edibles. Combining concrete, Corten steel and Aluminum Screening the area will be maintenance free for years to come. img_9796x.jpg

COR-TEN STEEL

COR-TEN or weathering steel is a product that has significant corrosive resistance and tensile strength. Over time, it will slowly take on a rust coloring; however, its main advantage is its resistance to blistering seen on non-weathering steel. 

It is typically used for landscaping and outdoor construction. It is made with alloys that cause its surface to develop a self-protecting rust when exposed to weather. The insulating patina resists corrosion, requires no painting or weather-proofing, and doesn’t compromise structural strength.

The organic yet industrial texture and colouring of COR-TEN allows it to be used in a range of garden styles. Varying environments, including wet-dry cycles, affect the steel differently and the appearance can be unpredictable and uniquely charming in the garden. Like stainless steel, COR-TEN can be used for ornamentation. 

SLATER PROJECT

Cor-Ten plant beds and edging offers a practical solution to keep plants and materials with a clean-cut appearance. It not only provides straight lines to offer the quintessential geometric designs, it prevents migration of garden materials in place. Whether it is grass, gravel or mulch, the steel edging creates a barrier to deter these materials from creeping out of place. 

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Steel edging is a durable material that resists ground movement in extreme weather conditions such as excessive rain. Its resilience lasts against hot or cold weather and garden maintenance tools.  Steel edging comes in thin raw steel 10 ft sticks. The pieces can be treated with a corrosion-resistant finish. If the pieces are not treated; they will begin to discolor into a rust coloration that blends well in any garden. They come in Rust naturally or powder coated black.

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Though using steel e is an old professional landscaper secret, these products are easy to use for homeowners and contractors alike. 

We provide special profiles and sections for many landscape design solutions. Custom shapes and sizes are also available. Please contact us today for additional information about our products, manufacturing processes, and global services.

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