What Finish for hot rolled wall panels

[loganjstuckey]

I'm looking at making my own hot rolled wall panels for a fireplace surround. Should I just apply a wax such as the sculpt nuoveau waxes or the renaissance wax that steel f/x has, or a clear coat? It will be indoors, however, I'm also looking at doing some things on the outside of my house with hot rolled steel as well. I guess I'm just looking for general advice on finishing steel without having to sandblast the scale or patina off.

Regards,

Logan