Cor-Ten steel is widely used in architecture, for its aesthetical and technological features (i.e. auto-protection from atmospheric corrosion). However, environmental conditions and exposure geometry strongly affect resistance to corrosion. This work focuses on the corrosion behaviour of Cor-Ten with different surface finish typically adopted in art/architecture (bare/pre-patinated/pre-patinated and waxed) in stagnant or runoff conditions. The evolution of the exposed surfaces and the metal release are followed as a function of exposure time. The results showed that pre-patination has no beneficial effects on corrosion and, in stagnant conditions, the high metal release suggests the need of field investigations to evaluate possible adverse effects on the environment. (C) 2012 Elsevier By. All rights reserved.