Can weathering steel be painted?

Although the corrosion resistance of weathering steel allows it to be unpainted in structural and architectural applications, it can also be painted. However, proper cleaning of the surface, preparation and use of materials are required to obtain the appearance of the paint.

Although many people choose weathering steel because of its practical value, others choose steel with a rusty orange-brown patina appearance. Architects and landscape architects particularly like the texture and color weathering steel used in structures and outdoor spaces.

In its original state, weathering steel is silver like standard steel, and appears orange-brown with the formation of patina. The rate of formation of patina depends on the environment in which the steel is located and various factors such as humidity and proximity to water bodies. According to our experience, the patina will form faster when steel is exposed to more environmental cycles. Similarly, cold-rolled materials (18 GA sheet or thinner) form patina faster than hot-rolled materials.