What is Corten steel?
Corten Steel is a high-strength, weathering steel designed to form a stable rust-like patina when exposed to the elements.
Where is TerraForm manufactured?
TerraForm is proudly manufactured onsite at Absco Industries, located in Brisbane, Australia.
Is TerraForm edging easy for DIY installation?
Generally, yes. Most homeowners can install it with basic tools. For longer or thicker profiles, two people are recommended to make installation easier.
Does weathering steel require maintenance or special care?
Weathering steel is intentionally low-maintenance, but several conditions help ensure the patina forms correctly:
- It must be exposed to regular wet–dry cycles.
- Surfaces shielded from rain or airflow may weather more slowly and produce a slightly different patina texture.
- The steel should be kept free of oils, paints, concrete splatter, or markings during installation, as these can affect appearance.
Where should weathering steel not be used?
Weathering steel is not suitable for:
- Marine environments with high salt exposure
- Heavy industrial locations with high sulphide levels
- Fully submerged or constantly wet conditions
- Buried applications without a protective coating
- Areas where wet–dry cycling does not occur (fully shaded, enclosed, or permanently sheltered sections)
For garden edging, this mainly means ensuring the top rolled lip remains exposed to airflow and moisture so the patina can develop naturally.
What accessories are available?
All TerraForm components are sold individually.
The range includes:
- Garden edges
- Stakes
- Connectors
- Inside corners
All parts are available in multiple sizes to mix and match your ideal layout.
What thicknesses and heights are available?
TerraForm edging is available in:
- 1.60 mm thickness
- Heights: 75 mm, 100 mm, 150 mm, 185 mm
Do I need stakes for installation?
Yes. Stakes anchor the edging in place, maintain curves or straight lines, and prevent movement over time.
How many stakes should I use?
We recommend a minimum of 3 stakes are used for each 2440mm garden edge length. For more complex shapes (more bends), more stakes should be used to securely anchor the edging in place and prevent movement over time.
What are connectors used for?
Connectors join two lengths of edging (or connect corners) for a seamless, continuous line. They ensure strength and help maintain consistent height and alignment during installation.
How do inside corners work?
Inside corners allow for clean, precise 90° inward bends – ideal for raised beds, garden boxes, or geometric layouts. They simplify installation by eliminating the need to manually bend thick steel.
How do I install TerraForm garden edging?
How to Bend Edges
Bend the edging gently by hand along its length to create curves or angles.
- For tighter curves: apply gradual, even pressure.
- For broader curves: work in small increments to keep the top lip smooth. Always bend before adding stakes or connectors.
How to Use Stakes
- Install three stakes per 2440 mm length for most applications.
- Position the stake behind the edging, tucked neatly under the rolled lip.
- Clamp if needed to hold alignment.
- Drill a 3 mm pilot hole just below soil level.
- Secure with one tek screw.
How to use connectors
Edge to Edge
- Align the rolled lips of the two pieces.
- Slide the connector behind them under the top lip.
- Drill a 3 mm pilot hole in each section just below soil level.
- Secure with tek screws.
Edge to Corner
Use the same connector: align, position behind the join, drill pilot holes, and secure.
How to Install TerraForm Edging (Step-by-Step)
Mark out your line
Use a string line for straight sections or a garden hose to map out curves. This shows the exact path your edging will follow and helps you visualise the final layout.
- Prepare the ground
Dig a shallow trench along the marked line. The trench should be wide enough for the edging and deep enough so that roughly one-third of the profile sits below ground for stability.
2. Position the Edging
Place each length of edging into the trench, shaping it as needed. Join sections with connectors and secure stakes behind the edging as instructed, adjusting the height as you go to keep the top lip level and consistent.
3. Backfill and finish
Once everything is aligned, backfill the trench with soil, packing it firmly around the edging and covering all screws below soil level. Finish by checking the line is smooth and the edging sits clean and stable.
Can I cut the garden edges to my desired length?
Yes. The garden edging can be cut to any length required.
It’s recommended to use an angle grinder. Ensure the edging is securely supported during cutting and smooth any sharp edges after the cut.
How long does it take for the Corten patina to form?
Patina formation varies depending on climate, moisture, and exposure. Regular wet–dry cycles help the patina develop, and the finish will continue to deepen and stabilise naturally over time.
Will Corten steel stain nearby surfaces?
During the initial patina-forming period, runoff may cause temporary rust staining on concrete, paving, and light-coloured surfaces. To avoid this, keep edging away from porous materials or protect these areas until the patina stabilises.
Can I create custom curves with TerraForm edging?
Yes. TerraForm edging is flexible enough (depending on thickness) to form gentle to moderate curves by hand or with basic tools. Tighter curves may require more stakes or pre-formed curved sections.
What tools will I need to install my garden edging?
Recommended tools:
- Rubber mallet or hammer
- Drill with 3mm drill bit
- Tek screws (not supplied)
- Drill/driver for fastening
- Shovel or spade
- Measuring tape
- String line or garden hose (for curves)
- Safety gloves and glasses