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Corten Steel Price Per Square Metre
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When evaluating Corten steel price per square metre, it is important to consider thickness, material density, and alloy composition. Compared to ordinary carbon steel and stainless steel, Corten steel sits in the middle price range, offering a balance between cost and long-term performance.
Price Comparison by Material (Per Square Metre)
The price per square metre varies depending on thickness (commonly 2–6 mm for sheets). The table below provides a general comparison based on typical market ranges.
Price Comparison Table
| Material Type | Price (USD/m², 2–3 mm) | Relative Cost Level | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon Steel Sheet | 10 – 25 | Low | Low cost, requires coating |
| Corten Steel Sheet | 15 – 40 | Medium (+20%–40%) | Weather-resistant, low maintenance |
| Stainless Steel 304 | 50 – 120+ | High | Excellent corrosion resistance |
Key Insight:
Corten steel typically costs 20% to 40% more per square metre than carbon steel, but is significantly cheaper than stainless steel.
Why Corten Steel Costs More Than Carbon Steel
Alloy Composition
Corten steel contains alloying elements such as:
- Copper (Cu)
- Chromium (Cr)
- Nickel (Ni)
These elements improve corrosion resistance but increase material cost compared to standard carbon steel.
Performance Advantage
- Forms a self-protective rust layer (patina)
- Eliminates the need for painting or galvanizing
- Reduces maintenance costs over time
Carbon steel, by contrast, requires:
- Painting or coating
- Regular maintenance
- Higher lifecycle cost
Why Corten Steel Is Cheaper Than Stainless Steel
Material Composition
Stainless steel contains higher levels of:
- Chromium (≥10.5%)
- Nickel (in grades like 304)
These elements significantly increase raw material cost.
Corrosion Mechanism
- Stainless steel: corrosion resistance comes from a chromium oxide passive film
- Corten steel: relies on a rust-based protective layer
Stainless steel offers superior corrosion resistance, especially in harsh environments, but at a much higher price.
Performance Comparison
| Property | Carbon Steel | Corten Steel | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | Lowest | Medium | Highest |
| Corrosion Resistance | Low | Medium to High | Very High |
| Maintenance | High | Very Low | Very Low |
| Lifespan (Outdoor) | 5–15 years | 25–50+ years | 30–70+ years |
| Aesthetic | Plain | Rusted natural look | Clean metallic |
Cost Efficiency in Real Applications
Carbon Steel
- Lowest upfront cost
- Higher maintenance and repainting costs
- Suitable for indoor or short-term use
Corten Steel
- Moderate initial cost
- Minimal maintenance
- Ideal for outdoor architecture, landscaping, and urban furniture
Stainless Steel
- Highest upfront cost
- Best for extreme environments (marine, chemical)
- Premium appearance and performance
Factors Affecting Price Per Square Metre
- Sheet thickness (e.g., 2 mm vs 6 mm)
- Steel grade (A588, S355J2W, 304, etc.)
- Surface condition (raw, pickled, pre-rusted)
- Order quantity and customization
- Market fluctuations in alloy elements
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