A method for patinating zinc surfaces of a structural element. The method includes disposing a structural element with a zinc surface in a container. Disposing an atmosphere around the zinc surface in the container, wherein said atmosphere comprises a carbon-based gas and a relative humidity. Heating the zinc surface for at least one hour to provide a patinated zinc surface. Heating of the zinc surface occurs by disposing the atmosphere at a heating state. The heating state the atmosphere comprises a temperature of at least 50 degrees Celsius, relative humidity of at least 70%, and at least 5% volume of a carbon-based gas.