Something different in Corten Steel
Earlier in 2023 DMS Graphics Ltd was approached by Harrisons Chartered Surveyors. Harrisons were relocating to a listed building which, is the only remaining building from the original Whatman printing mill. Douglas Rogers of Harrisons was looking for a traditional and industrial type of branding that, would fit well with the listed buildings’ character. Douglas was particularly interested in Corten Steel.

Corten Steel Signs
Corten Steel is an excellent material for External signs and is already coated in a layer of rust to give it age. This type of metal is protected from corrosion by the rust layer. As we wanted to create an industrial look, we needed to find suitable legs to support the main sign. Mark Steward at DMS Graphics decided to Use Rolled Steel Joists and Mild steel box Sections to create the signs.
Each Panel was then Tech Screwed in Place to create the structure of the sign. This then meant that the sign had shiny new tech screws. As this did not fit with the desired effect, Mark decided to age each screw using Rust coating. Each screw was then rubbed and aged.
The Text elements of the sign were created using a stencil and paint that was then over-sprayed with rust spray to create an aged look.

Parking Sign
The process was repeated to make a smaller parking sign using a Mild Steel Box section for legs and Corten Steel Panels to create the main sign.

The Beauty of Corten Steel Signs
Corten steel allows the sign maker to create an aged sign from day one. The rust effect makes the sign look old and weathered upon installation. The true beauty of Corten Steel is that it carries on aging and developing a richer rust colour as it ages without, affecting the steel underneath. The signs will last for a very long time and they fit in well with listed buildings and classic industrial installations.
Corten Steel effect
Harrisons wanted to transfer the corten steel look to the internal graphics for the RAG Room. Douglas asked Mark @ DMS Graphics to design internal graphics using the rust effect and look.

The idea is to continue with the traditional and industrial appearance, yet create a modern and fresh reception area. Using archive images that have been enhanced to cope with being enlarged and historical references, DMS Graphics created the internal panels using aluminium composite panels mounted onto aluminium stand-off fixings. Each stand-off fixing was then painted using rust-coated textured paint to give the aged look that was required.



In Conclusion
Corten steel signs and steel effect panels are great when you need to add age and status to your signs. The industrial look is great for this kind of installation and makes a change from the everyday signs that appear at most offices.
If you think we can help with your office re-branding, give us a call or drop us an email.

