Some woods are resistant to rot and insect attacks. They are the types of wood that you use for outdoor applications. But some woods can’t be used outside without first treating them. So, how to treat untreated wood for outdoor use?
How to Treat Untreated Wood for Outdoor Use?
To treat untreated wood for outdoor use, you need to apply the treatment. This treatment contains chemicals that can make the wood shrug off insects and harsh weather. The best option you have to treat wood for outdoor use is pine tar. It’s a popular option as it can provide a stain-like finish. You can use it on decks, porches, fence posts, etc. There are several stain colors available. Depending on the result you desire, you may opt for a dark finish or a lighter stain.
How to Use Pine Tar to Treat Wood for Outdoor Use?
Pine tar is one of the most common options available in the US to treat any type of wood. One of the reasons for its popularity is that it’s easy to use. To apply it to wood, here are some steps to keep in mind.
- Mix pine tar with purified linseed oil. Diluting it with oil will make it easier to apply on wood. Pine tar is viscous. Dilution is necessary for easy application. The common ratio is 50/50.
- Clean and dry the wood surface. If you don’t, it’ll be difficult to apply the mixture. You may need to sand it first before applying to ensure the best results.
- Apply two coats with soft bristles. Or you may also use a clean rag. However, a brush will make the process a lot easier.
Let it dry. It typically takes two to three days to dry the coat. That’s why it’s ideal that you apply it in warm temperatures to ensure fast drying.
Why Use Pine Tar?
Pine tar is one of the best protective products for any wood surface. It creates a breathable wood surface. One of its benefits is that it won’t trap moisture. We recommend mixing authentic pine tar with purified linseed oil. These two products can work well to ensure the wood substrate is properly nourished. They can protect the wood against rot and damage. The treated wood can also deter insects.
Another reason many homeowners opt for this wood treatment is that pine tar is easy to maintain. It doesn’t peel easily. However, if you need to re-apply it, you may need to clean the surface first. Let it dry before you re-apply a mother coat of the said mixture. The best thing about pine tar is that you won’t need to re-apply for many years. It nourishes the wood. It also maintains the coated surface so it can last longer before you re-apply it. Now that you know the steps on how to treat untreated wood for outdoor use, it’s time to buy the best treatment for your wood. You browse our shop here or call us if you have further inquiries: (818) 308-8430.