Plinth Options
Oak
I often use solid green (new) oak as it ages so well over time, the sculpture is glued in using pins attached to the sculpture. It does mean it’s difficult to remove it if you wanted to move but probably not impossible.
Oak ages well and has a much softer natural feel than the steel. It starts of a warm/tan colour and then goes grey over time. I can provide a steel plate for it to sit on in a flower bed or it can be pinned and glued to a concrete substructure or paving slab.
Mild Steel
Mild steel can be painted any colour, I use a particular grey cellulose paint (colour: Ral 7011) which I like and seems to blend in well with the greens of the garden. Like garden railings it may need touching up in years to come.
Mild steel can also be left bare and rusted to give a corten like look, i.e. rusty red, which can be waxed to make a dark brown natural finish which I feel is a really lovely option.
Installing Mild Steel Plinths
The plinths are supplied with a wider base plate that can be set in concrete, buried in earth under a lawn or in a flowerbed. Be careful not to put this on light coloured paving though as this may cause run off water to stain the paving.
If you have a concrete substrate or paving and would like to secure it straight to that we can provide lugs on the inside of the plinth, so it’s secured with bolts or such like from inside, via the access panel.
A top tip is to ensure you can access the back plate before concreting the plinth in!
Caring for Rusted Mild Steel
It is easy to care for rusted mild steel outside, just periodically apply a coat of wax. This will help to preserve the dark brown natural finish and prevent further corrosion. Make sure to clean the surface of any debris or dirt before applying the wax.
If you notice any areas where the rust has become too flaky or uneven, gently brush it off with sandpaper pad or wire wool before waxing. This maintenance should be done annually or as needed, depending on the exposure to the elements.
Caring for Painted Mild Steel
To maintain the appearance and longevity of painted mild steel outdoors, follow these straightforward steps. Regularly inspect the painted surface for any signs of peeling, chipping, or rust. If you notice any of these issues, lightly sand the affected area to remove loose paint or rust. After sanding, clean the surface thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a primer suitable for metal surfaces to the sanded area, followed by a coat of cellulose paint in your chosen colour (such as Ral 7011 grey). Allow the paint to dry completely between coats. Typically, one or two coats of paint will be sufficient to restore the finish.
For added protection, consider applying a clear sealant over the painted surface. This will help protect the paint from UV damage and further corrosion. Regular maintenance checks and touch-ups will keep your painted mild steel looking fresh and vibrant for years to come.