Weathering Steel
Years ago, the first "rusty" guardrails began to appear along a
few country roads in the area. The new guardrails were curious, and
frankly, looked like an oversight in the materials department.
Decades ) later, known as "weathering steel", it has been
increasingly used throughout our country on county roads, in park
and trail systems, in upscale golf courses, as well as industrial
and mining situations. It ! is used for vehicular traffic and
pedestrian trails, in barriers and bridges. It is even found in
decorative arbors in the finest gardens. Aesthetically, the &
naturally oxidized rust color blends in with the outdoors, in
contrast to steel with other surface finishes.
Municipalities, like the one in which this cache resides, like
it because it needs less maintenance. No ) painting needed. It
looks good, too, once you get over the initial surprise. National
Park planners ^ often use "naturally weathering steel" guardrails
on park roads, winding through the natural terrain, rather &
than the highly reflective galvanized rails.
Isn't it strange how things change?
Coordinates and puzzle updated on
2-3-09