Appreciated for the variety of styles it can evoke, steel can be one of the garden's most charming assets. Let's learn more about this material.
The different types of steel
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon. It can be matte, oxidized, smooth or even shiny and can be worked in various ways to form useful or decorative objects in the garden. This alloy has the advantage of being resistant, waterproof and relatively strong, it is also 98% recyclable. The only drawback is that in its raw state, it is very sensitive to corrosion and quickly becomes covered with a layer of rust. This effect is sometimes sought in certain sculptures or garden fountains. If corrosion is not desired, the steel should be treated:
Galvanized or 'galva' steel is coated either by hot dipping or by electrolysis with a thick layer of zinc that protects it from corrosion.
Stainless steel or 'inox' is composed of an alloy of steel, carbon, chrome and nickel. There are several grades of stainless steel including 'A2' and 'A4'. The latter is much more resistant but also more expensive because it is composed of molybdenum. It will be chosen for the garden furniture in edge of swimming pool for its resistance to chlorine but also in the gardens of edge of sea because it tolerates the sprays well.
Cataphoretic steel has been treated in depth with successive layers of very fine anti-corrosive paint. It is widely used in the automotive industry, but also to create garden furniture that is resistant to climatic hazards.
Corten steel assumes and claims its rust color. It is made from the alloy of steel and chromium, copper, nickel, molybdenum and phosphorus. This steel is very resistant because it is protected by a layer of oxides. It is used in the garden to create decorative elements. It is also the favorite type of steel for sculptors and outdoor designers.
The various applications of steel in the garden
Steel in the garden has many applications. Most tools such as hoes, rakes and spades have steel heads. Wheelbarrows, as well as many of the daily crossings, are also made of steel. There are steel garden sheds, but also gates and lighting fixtures.
To give a very design style to the garden, you can underline your paths with steel borders and decorate your terrace with high geometrical pots, or create a surprise by installing a brazier that will warm up your evenings.
There is nothing like a beautiful steel sculpture in the middle of a lawn to give an incomparable touch to the garden! Fountains, always in very geometric shapes, rectangular or square, will also make their effect!
In a more traditional garden, trellises will find their place as well as simple steel garden furniture. A patio can be illuminated with corroded and openwork steel sconces to give a very authentic touch and a touch of magic to the summer evenings.
