When choosing metal garden edging, the two most popular options among Australian homeowners and landscapers are Corten Steel and Galvanised Steel. Both are durable, long-lasting and capable of delivering a professional, clean finish, yet each offers a completely different look, performance profile and long-term behaviour.
This guide compares both materials in depth so you can confidently choose the edging that suits your garden style, budget and practical needs.
What Is Corten Steel Edging?
Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, develops a natural rust-like patina that protects the metal beneath. It starts out a raw steel colour, then matures into a warm, earthy tone that blends seamlessly with plants, rocks and timber. YardSteel’s certified Corten A (SPA-H) edging is engineered for superior strength and long-term performance, offering exceptional rigidity, bendability and corrosion resistance.
Best for: Natural, rustic, earthy, architectural and modern-native landscapes.
What Is Galvanised Steel Edging?
Galvanised steel edging features a zinc-coated steel core finished with a smooth black powder coating. This combination gives you a crisp, contemporary look with outstanding rust resistance. YardSteel’s black galvanised edging keeps its sharp lines and deep-black colour year-round, delivering a refined, architectural finish that suits modern Australian gardens.
Best for: Contemporary, minimalist, coastal, structured and modern suburban landscapes.
Visual Difference: Rustic Patina vs Modern Black
- Corten Steel: Develops a warm rusted patina that changes gradually over time. Ideal for organic, earthy, natural gardens.
- Galvanised Steel: Features a consistent black powder-coated finish that stays sleek and clean. Great for sharp contrast and modern styling.
If you want earthy warmth, choose Corten. If you want sharp, modern lines, choose Galvanised.
Durability & Weather Performance
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Weather Resistance:
- Corten forms a protective patina that resists corrosion.
- Galvanised uses zinc + powder coating for strong rust protection.
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Coastal Suitability:
- Corten performs best inland; patina forms more slowly in salty air.
- Galvanised is excellent in coastal conditions due to its coating system.
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Colour Stability:
- Corten changes naturally over time.
- Galvanised stays consistently black year-round.
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Maintenance:
- Corten requires very little – the patina self-seals.
- Galvanised remains stable with minimal upkeep.
Installation & Workability
Both materials are designed for straightforward installation, whether you're a DIY homeowner or a landscaper.
- Corten: Bends easily for curves; available in join types such as Auto-Join and Stake-Join.
- Galvanised: Rigid for sharp lines but still bendable for gentle curves; powder coat protects during installation.
Design Style Guide: Which Edging Suits Your Garden?
Choose Corten If You Want:
- A natural, rustic or earthy garden vibe
- A landscape that visually evolves over time
- Warm tones that blend with stone, timber and native plants
- A feature element with character and texture
- A material that looks intentionally weathered and organic
Choose Galvanised If You Want:
- A clean, modern, contemporary look
- Strong contrast against lawns, gravel and paving
- A consistent black colour all year
- Sharp, architectural lines
- The lowest-maintenance option for coastal environments
Where Each Type Works Best
Popular uses for Corten include:
- Native and bush-style gardens
- Organic, curved garden beds
- Feature landscaping zones
- Rustic pathways
- Spaces needing natural warmth and texture
Popular uses for Galvanised include:
- Modern suburban gardens
- Coastal front yards
- Sleek pathways and patios
- Formal garden beds with straight lines
- Designs needing crisp black accents
Price Comparison
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Corten Steel Edging:
- 100mm - $29 per metre
- 150mm - $36 per metre
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Galvanised Steel Edging (Black):
- 100mm - $27 per metre
- 150mm - $33 per metre
If you’re comparing purely on price, galvanised edging is slightly more affordable. Most decisions come down to style and environment.
Which Edging Lasts Longer?
Both styles are engineered for long-term outdoor durability. Corten protects itself through patina formation, while galvanised uses zinc and powder-coat layers. In typical inland conditions, both perform similarly.
In coastal zones, galvanised edging tends to maintain its finish more consistently, while Corten may weather more aggressively depending on salt exposure.
Summary: Quick Comparison
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Style:
- Corten - rustic, natural, warm, evolving
- Galvanised - modern, sleek, bold, consistent
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Colour:
- Corten - rusted patina
- Galvanised - black powder coat
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Coastal Performance:
- Corten - moderate
- Galvanised - excellent
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Maintenance:
- Corten - low
- Galvanised - very low
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Price:
- Corten - $$
- Galvanised - $
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Corten if you want a warm, character-rich garden that feels natural and timeless.
Choose Galvanised if you want a clean, consistent, modern look with sharp lines and minimal upkeep.
Both materials elevate garden borders and help structure outdoor spaces. Your choice depends on your style, environment and long-term vision.
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