Corten steel is widely recognised as an excellent choice for signage thanks to its unique combination of strength, durability, and visual appeal. Unlike standard steels, corten is designed to form a protective surface layer when exposed to the elements. This patina develops naturally over time, shielding the material from further corrosion while creating a distinctive look. For signage, this means long-lasting resilience without the need for extensive maintenance.

From a practical standpoint, corten steel can withstand a variety of environmental conditions, making it a suitable choice for both indoor and outdoor settings. It is resistant to extreme weather, retains structural integrity for many years, and requires little intervention. Its durability makes it a reliable material for businesses, organisations, and private properties looking to invest in signage that will endure.

Beyond its practical qualities, corten steel also adds character and warmth to a space. Its earthy tones and evolving surface create a sense of depth and individuality, meaning no two signs will ever look identical. This makes corten a particularly attractive option for those seeking a sign that blends modern engineering with a natural aesthetic.

The material also conveys a sense of permanence and stability, qualities that are often desirable in commercial, retail, and hospitality environments. Whether it is used for a business entrance, directional signage, or decorative branding, corten steel stands out without appearing overbearing. Its warm, rusted hues contrast effectively with other design materials such as glass, timber, or stone, ensuring it integrates perfectly into both contemporary and traditional surroundings.

In short, corten steel is more than just a functional signage material. It is a design choice that reflects reliability, individuality, and style, offering a timeless solution that grows more visually interesting as it ages. For clients who value durability alongside aesthetic richness, corten steel is undoubtedly a strong option.

In this image: Rusted Corten steel cladding and signage panels installed within the lift lobby at the Royal Liver Building, Liverpool. The large illuminated number ‘1’ and directional signage were precision laser cut and finished with a controlled rust patina, then sealed for long-term durability. This project, completed with Artworks Solutions, demonstrates how Corten steel can be integrated into commercial interiors to create a bold, industrial aesthetic.

Read the full case study on the use of rusted Corten steel at the Royal Liver Building for more details.

We are specialists in crafting rusted Corten steel signs, with the installation at Farncombe Estate serving as a strong example of our work. This particular sign features the inscription “Farncombe Estate” and has been expertly weathered to achieve a deep, characterful patina. The naturally developed rusted finish allows the sign to sit harmoniously within its surroundings, blending effortlessly with the estate’s greenery and traditional stonework. The rich, earthy tones of the Corten steel not only provide a striking contrast against the lush landscape but also add a sense of permanence and maturity to the space. Every element, from the choice of material to the weathering technique, has been carefully considered to ensure the sign will continue to develop beautifully over time. This installation highlights our skill in producing durable, visually striking signage solutions that enhance outdoor environments while offering long-term resilience and minimal maintenance.

Direction Signage in Corten Steel – Laser Cut Panels
Bespoke Corten steel directional signage featuring precision laser-cut lettering and symbols. These durable, weathered panels are designed for Limeyard and include clearly marked delivery and service directions. The rusted patina gives a natural industrial look that blends seamlessly with modern architecture.

Laser Cut Corten Steel Sign – ‘Sunlight Forest’ Logo for Customer-Finished Rusting
Bespoke laser-cut sign in Corten steel, designed for the client to allow natural rusting over time. Featuring the ‘Sunlight Forest’ logo with clean cut-out detailing, this untreated sign will weather naturally to form a rich patina, creating an earthy, characterful finish. Supplied in raw Corten for exterior or rustic branding applications.

Rusted & Unrusted Corten Steel Numbers – Custom Cut Signage
A side-by-side comparison of laser-cut Corten steel numbers in both rusted and unrusted states. The darker number shows Corten in its pre-weathered condition, which will naturally develop a rich, protective patina when exposed to the elements. The rusted number demonstrates the final weathered appearance. These large format “44” numerals are ideal for house numbers, commercial units, or architectural signage where a raw industrial finish is desired.

Corrugated rusted corten steel signage combines the distinctive weathered patina of corten with the texture and dimensionality of corrugated metal. The rusted finish provides the same protective qualities and earthy tones as standard corten, while the corrugated surface adds depth, movement, and shadow, creating a striking visual effect.

This combination of patina and form makes corrugated corten signage particularly suited to design schemes where industrial or architectural themes are emphasised. The texture enhances visual interest, making signs more prominent and eye-catching, whether installed indoors or outdoors. In commercial applications, such as bars, breweries, or creative studios, it can project an image of strength, originality, and bold design choice.

From an interior design perspective, corrugated rusted corten signage introduces a tactile element that contrasts effectively with smooth materials like glass or polished concrete. The shadows cast by the corrugation give the sign a sense of depth and dynamism, while the rusted hues add warmth and authenticity. Outdoors, corrugated corten maintains durability and resilience, continuing to protect itself against weathering while evolving aesthetically over time.

Overall, corrugated rusted corten steel signage is both practical and expressive, combining the enduring qualities of corten with the architectural impact of corrugated metal. It is a versatile option for businesses or individuals looking for signage that is as much a design feature as it is a functional element.

This bespoke project is another example of Metal Sheets Ltd’s expertise in producing rusted Corten steel signage, crafted for the Oxheart restaurant located in Shipston-on-Stour. The sign was designed with a rich, deep brown patina, achieved through our carefully managed weathering process, giving it a mature and authentic appearance. The natural, earthy tones of the Corten steel complement the rustic character of the restaurant and its surrounding area, making the sign an integral part of its visual identity. This project once again showcases our skill in creating robust, visually striking signage that not only stands the test of time but also enhances the character of any landscape or commercial setting.

Metal Sheets had the privilege of supporting Millmead Optical Group and acclaimed designer Yair Neuman in the creation of a striking Corten steel sculpture entitled Heavy Light, exhibited at the Open Eye Gallery. The artwork was formed from a hollow column constructed using precision-fabricated 2mm thick Corten steel, which was securely welded to a plinth also made from Corten steel for stability and cohesion. Following fabrication, the sculpture underwent a controlled rusting process to achieve a consistent patina, after which it was carefully clear lacquered to preserve the desired finish while protecting the surface from further weathering. This project highlights not only our technical abilities in working with Corten steel but also our commitment to supporting artists and designers in realising their creative visions with artisanship and attention to detail.

Corten signs have seen a significant rise in popularity in recent years, particularly because of their distinctive rustic and industrial appearance. Their unique weathered aesthetic has become a favoured choice for a wide range of settings, including commercial premises, hotels, restaurants, and private homes. The warm, textured finish of Corten steel lends character and authenticity to any environment, making it an increasingly sought-after material for bespoke signage.

Our experienced team of fabricators is skilled in every aspect of Corten steel sign production. From the initial design to the finished piece, we work to the highest standards, employing the latest computer-controlled CAD and CNC machinery to ensure precision and quality at every stage. Whether you are starting from scratch or already have a design in mind, our team can assist in bringing your vision to life.

We collaborate closely with all our clients to develop the best possible outcomes for their signage projects. If you already have DWG or DXF files prepared, we can import these directly into our cutting software, allowing us to translate your designs into finished Corten signs with exceptional accuracy.

Following fabrication, each sign is handed over to our specialist patina studio. Here, our engineers apply a range of carefully developed techniques to control the weathering process, creating a variety of finishes. Corten steel signs can be treated to produce a stunning palette of tones, ranging from bright, vibrant oranges to deeper, more muted browns, depending on the desired effect and the location where the sign will be displayed.

Once the weathering process is complete, your rusted steel sign can either be installed immediately for natural outdoor exposure or finished with additional treatments if intended for interior use. We offer the option of a wax or clear lacquer coating: a wax finish will deepen and enrich the colour of the rust patina, while both lacquer and wax help to seal the surface, reducing the risk of rust transfer onto clothing or skin if the sign is in a position where it may be touched.

It is important to note that when Corten signs are placed outdoors, some degree of rust run-off should be expected initially. This is a natural part of the weathering process and will gradually diminish as the surface stabilises and matures.

For further inspiration and to view more examples of our work, we invite you to explore our Corten steel album available on Flickr.

If you have a project in mind and would like to discuss your requirements, we would be pleased to hear from you. Whether you’re at the early planning stage or have detailed specifications ready, our team is available to offer advice and provide guidance on how we can help bring your ideas to life. You can contact us directly by sending an email to sales@metalsheets.co.uk, or you can give us a call on 0151 526 4777 to speak with a member of our team. Alternatively, you are welcome to fill out the contact form on our website, and we will respond promptly to your enquiry. We are committed to delivering a professional, helpful service and look forward to working with you on your Corten steel signs or other metal sheet projects.

If you already know what you need, you can also shop for sheet metals online safely and securely through our website, where you can purchase a wide range of sheet metals directly with ease and confidence.

Images:

Natural Corten steel sign for Sunlight Forest was laser cut with a custom font designed to keep letters like “O” and “R” intact using bridging details. The circular tree-and-house logo also features laser-cut tags for structural strength. Supplied in its natural state, the Corten will rust naturally outdoors, developing a protective patina over time.

Laser cut Corten steel address signs with stencil-style numerals. These location panels were fabricated for an exterior housing development and are shown in their raw, unweathered steel state before patina formation. The plates feature precision-cut numbering and fixing holes ready for wall or post mounting.