Rusted Metal Signs: Why Corten Steel Is the Perfect Choice for Outdoor Branding
If you’re looking for signage that combines rugged durability with industrial elegance, rusted metal signs made from Corten steel are an outstanding choice. These distinctive signs develop a naturally weathered patina over time, giving them a timeless and earthy aesthetic that’s increasingly favoured for outdoor branding.
Why Corten Steel?
Corten steel, sometimes called weathering steel, is specially formulated to develop a stable, rust-like appearance when exposed to the elements. Unlike ordinary steel, it doesn’t flake or corrode through. Instead, it forms a protective surface layer that enhances longevity and creates a rich, textured finish ideal for signage.
Want to explore more ways metal can elevate your brand presence?
👉 Also read: Metal Signage & Branding Ideas for Shops, Cafés & Designers
Standout Features of Rusted Corten Signs
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Weather Resistance
Corten signs are built to thrive outdoors, enduring rain, wind and sun without deteriorating. -
Low Maintenance
No need for painting or protective coatings – the natural patina does all the work. -
Industrial Aesthetic
The signature reddish-brown surface gives your signage an urban, contemporary or rustic edge. -
Sustainable and Long-Lasting
The lack of treatments and the longevity of Corten make it an eco-friendly signage choice.
Ideal for Outdoor Spaces
From estate entrances to boutique restaurants, Corten signs feel grounded in their environment. Whether freestanding or wall-mounted, they work beautifully in garden settings, woodlands, stone walls or modern architectural facades.
Entrance sign for Farncombe Estate in Corten steel, aged naturally to a rich rust finish
Custom Cut for Impact
We laser cut bespoke designs from Corten sheets, including names, logos and wayfinding information. Fonts and graphics can be precision-cut, backlit or layered with other materials. The surface can be supplied clean for rusting naturally over time, or pre-rusted and sealed for immediate effect.
Laser cut and pre-rusted Corten steel sign for FYR Grill at North Lakes Hotel
Wayfinding & Informational Signage
Corten’s natural weathered appearance is not just for logos and names – it’s a popular material for directional signs, estate or car park wayfinding and public realm installations. The patina finish stands out against foliage and brick or stone, while retaining a harmonious tone.
A series of directional signs in Corten steel, laser cut and patinated for Limeyard
Contemporary Shopfronts & Hospitality Branding
Rusty metal signs bring character and sophistication to shopfronts, restaurants, cafés and bars. They make a bold yet refined impression, especially when paired with minimal branding and strong typefaces.
Rusted Corten sign with clean white cut lettering for Øxheart
Corten Steel Signs for Receptions & Interiors
Rusted metal isn’t just for exteriors. Weathered Corten steel signage adds gravitas and distinction to reception areas, hotel lobbies and workplace interiors. Laser cut detail, clean geometry and ambient lighting can take the design to the next level.
Lift lobby signage fabricated in pre-rusted Corten steel with white infill and cut logos
Rusted and Ready to Go
We can pre-rust your signs using an accelerated weathering process, delivering the rich patina finish before installation. Or you can opt for a clean Corten surface that will rust naturally in situ over several weeks.
Corten steel sign for Foley House, freshly rusted and ready for dispatch
Our Corten Sign Services
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Laser cut Corten steel signs – bespoke sizes, shapes and branding
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Rusted finishes – natural or pre-aged with sealing options
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Fabrication & folded forms – not just flat panels
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Large format capability – up to 3m x 1.5m
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Ideal for outdoor & indoor use
For fully custom projects in brass, zinc, copper or Corten, visit our
👉 Bespoke Metal Signage page to see what we can do.
🖼️ See More Examples on Flickr
Explore more real-world applications of our rusted metal signage on our Corten Steel Signs Flickr Album.
📚 Discover More Signage Options
👉 Corten Steel Signage Services
Our full range of laser cut and pre-rusted Corten steel signage.
👉 Engraving Services
Explore CNC, rotary, and laser engraving for metal signs and plaques.
👉 Brass & Copper Letters
Individual cut letters for branding, shopfronts, and interiors.
👉 Zinc Signage
Understated and timeless signage in natural and aged zinc finishes.
👉 Brass Plaques
Custom-made brass plaques for signage, memorials, and decorative use.
💡 Looking for something unique? Visit our
Bespoke Metal Signage page to explore fully made-to-order options.
Get in Touch
We work with architects, developers, designers and shop owners to create standout rusted metal signage that complements and enhances the surrounding environment. If you have a project in mind, contact us for advice, samples or a quote.
