Pine Tar Vitriol creates a lovely, breathable gray or silver finish overtime on clean, bare wood siding or over previously applied Pine Tar Vitriol or Iron Vitriol.
Designed for exterior applications, it has wood preservative qualities like the other Pine Tar options but it is not as concentrated or effective. It should primarily be seen as a treatment to achieve the iconic and stylish, silvered, weathered grey finish it is known for.
Increasingly popular in the USA, it has been a favorite in Scandinavia for rustic timber structures, as well as modern architecture since its rising popularity among Scandinavian architects and designers in the last 30 years.
Excellent for pine, spruce, and other pale wood species.
Can be used on other wood species as well but most commenly used on the wood types above for the desired pale, gray color.
Pine Tar Vitriol is not an immediate stain. Wood surface will gray or silver over the course of several months or even seasons. Natural variation of finish from wood species, UV exposure, and the positioning of the structure in its environment should be expected.
Try out a sample size before purchasing supplies for a larger project.
Attention: This product includes a percentage of gum turpentine, a natural solvent that speeds dry time. Use with care.
Pine Tar Vitriol: New England Grey Treatment
Application Instructions for Pine Tar Vitriol or New England Gray (exterior projects only):
Pine Tar Vitriol is not an immediate stain. Wood surface will gray or silver over the course of several months or even seasons. Natural variation of finish from wood species, UV exposure, and the positioning of the structure in its environment should be expected.
- Ensure wood surface is clean and dry before application. Pine Tar Vitriol is only appropriate for bare wood surfaces or over previously applied Pine Tar Vitriol or Iron Vitriol.
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.
Do not power wash as it introduces too much moisture into a porous wood surface.
- Pine Tar Vitriol is a readyto-use product. No primer or additives required.
Mix very well before each use.
- Apply thin, even coats right out of the can with a stiff bristle brush.
Not suggested to spray Pine Tar Vitriol.
- Apply 12 relatively thin, even coats in 60°F or warmer temperatures.
Brush out as needed to avoid drip marks.
Ensure each coat is fully dry before applying the next.
Two coats minimum is recommended.
Dry time is typically 48-72 hrs. Timeframe will vary based on ambient temps and wood species. Colder temperatures may impact dry time.
- Pine Tar Vitriol is formulated with real gum turpentine, a natural solvent that speeds dry time. Apply in well ventilated space. Care should always be taken when working with solvents, even natural solvents. If irritation occurs, wear respirator and gloves.
- Dampen and dispose of rags to avoid fire hazard.
Priming with or the addition of Viking Purified Linseed Oil into the Pine Tar Vitriol will change the grey color and the aging process of the wood, usually darkening the finish to a warmer gray color.
Not detrimental to the Pine Tar Vitriol finish but will change results.
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.