Authentic Pine Tar, often referred to as Stockholm tar is a pure, natural wood preservative manufactured in Sweden. Pine tar was used on viking ships and ancient Scandinavian churches that still stand today. It was and still is, prized for its ability to create a water repellent surface on wood and rope, as well as for its antiseptic and insect repelling properties.
Light Pine Tar is so light that it does not offer much UV protection in comparison to the Dark Pine Tar or Pigmented Pine Tar options. It impacts the natural color of the wood less but expect more natural weathering and aging over time.
Read more in the Light Pine Tar Vs. Dark Pine Tar article from our Learning Center.
Applications include, fence posts, fencing, decks, siding, siding shingles, roof shingles, boat hulls, raised garden beds, outdoor furniture, etc.
Approximate coverage is 500-600 sq ft per gallon 50/50 ratio of Viking Purified Raw Linseed Oil and Pine Tar. Pine Tar must be thinned and is not used undiluted.
Mix Authentic Pine Tar with Viking Purified Linseed Oil. No additional solvents needed! 50/50 mixture is suggested but ratio can be adapted based on personal preference. Recommended to do a test first to determine color preference i.e. lighter or darker finish.
Apply thin, even coats. 2 coats miniumum is recommended.
Not recommended for interior applications as it does have a unique campfire scent. Aroma will dissipate within 1-2 weeks.
Do not apply on skin.
Authentic Light Pine Tar
Application Instructions for Authentic (Dark, Light, Black, Black-Brown, Brown and Red) Pine Tar:
- Ensure wood surface is clean and dry before application. Pine Tar is only appropriate for bare wood surfaces or over a previously applied Pine Tar finish.
If a previous barrier-forming coating exists, it must be scrubbed off using a petrochemical free liquid soap/cleaner or fully removed, preferably with an infrared tool.
Do not use chemical strippers on a porous wood surface. Avoid power washing.
- For roughcut, kiln-dried, or other very dry timber apply an initial “primer” coat of Viking Purified Raw Linseed Oil for additional moisture protection and to extend Pine Tar coverage. (optional)
- Mix Authentic Pine Tar with Viking Purified Linseed Oil. No additional solvents needed! 50/50 mixture is suggested but ratio can be adapted based on personal preference. Recommended to do a test first to determine color preference i.e. lighter or darker finish.
- Apply one coat to maintain a matte finish. With this method, a higher ratio of Pine Tar may be desirable to immediately achieve additional opacity/intensity of color. A second coat is recommended next season to ensure protection but maintain matte surface. (optional)
- Apply in 60°F or warmer environment. Warmer temperatures speed dry time.
If Pine Tar and Purified Oil are cold both will be thick or appear syrupy. Ensure materials are at least room temp before application (aka think twice about storing in cold location) so it is easy to brush or wipe on. It is possible to warm carefully if workshop is cold in double boiler or set on radiator (80-90 degrees max) and apply warm to wood surface
(not hot – do not boil – do not microwave).
- Apply thin, even coats of Pine Tar mixture with a stiff bristle brush or clean cloth. Ensure each coat is fully dry before applying the next. Two coats minimum is recommended.
Not suggested to spray Pine Tar.
- Brush out as needed to avoid drip marks. Let dry. Dry time is typically within 72 hrs in 60+ degree temperatures and may take longer based on various climates and/or wood type.
May chalk slightly in-between coats.
Takes a week or two to fully cure and achieve the final harder finish.
- For some timber or when ambient temps are cooler, it may be helpful to apply the Pine Tar mixture, let soak in, and wipe off any excess sitting on the surface before end of day to avoid unevenness. (optional)
Do not use conventional boiled or raw linseed oil that is not purified as it may not dry, can go rancid, and has unnecessary solvent additives.
For questions, please contact info@earthandflax.com.