Authentic Swedish Pine Tar for Ireland's Wood
Traditional wood protection trusted for centuries. Perfect for Irish decking, fencing, boats, and heritage timber. Time-proven and incredibly durable.
What is Swedish Pine Tar?
Pine tar is a traditional wood preservative made by heating pine wood in the absence of air—a process used in Scandinavia for over a thousand years. The result is a rich, amber-colored liquid that penetrates deep into timber, providing exceptional protection against moisture, rot, and weathering.
Auson AB has been producing pine tar in Sweden since 1928, using time-tested methods that create the finest quality tar available today. This isn't a modern chemical substitute—it's the same natural protection that preserved Viking ships and Scandinavian stave churches for centuries.
Ireland's wet climate is brutal on outdoor timber. Pine tar provides natural water repellency and weather resistance—a traditional alternative to modern wood treatments.
Key Benefits
Made from resinous pine wood using traditional kiln burning.
Soaks into wood fibers instead of sitting on the surface like paint.
Lets wood breathe while repelling water. Prevents cracking and peeling.
No sanding or stripping. Just clean and reapply when needed.
Ages to a lovely silver-grey. Never peels, cracks, or flakes.
Perfect for Irish Conditions
Pine tar excels in wet, changeable weather—exactly what Ireland delivers year-round.
Decking & Patios
Protects wooden decks from moisture and weathering. Penetrates the timber rather than sitting on the surface.
Fencing & Gates
Extends fence life by years. Perfect for post rot protection—apply to ground-contact areas for best results.
Boats & Marine
Traditional choice for wooden boats. Protects against saltwater, sun, and constant moisture exposure.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Protect garden sheds, tool stores, and outbuildings. Keeps timber dry and prevents rot in damp corners.
Heritage & Restoration
Authentic choice for historic buildings and traditional timber frames. Maintains period character.
Animal Housing
The traditional treatment for stables, chicken coops, and animal shelters. Helps keep timber dry and sound.
Pine Tar Product Range
Natural pine tar comes in 1, 3 and 10 litre tins. Pigmented (coloured) pine tar comes in 0,9, 2,7 and 9 litre tins. Trade pricing available for regular customers.
Tjärfärg — Coloured Pine Tar
Traditional pine tar paint in seven shades — black, brown, black-brown, red, green, yellow and white. A matt, deep-penetrating finish for cladding, fencing and outbuildings.
Sizes: 0,9 L · 2,7 L · 9 L
Äkta Trätjära 850 — Genuine Pine Tar
Pure, unpigmented Swedish pine tar. The traditional grade for boats, shingle roofs, heritage timber and anywhere the natural colour is wanted. Dalbränd 773 (kiln-burned) also available.
Sizes: 1 L · 3 L · 10 L
Tjärolja — Pigmented Tar Oil
A lighter, easier-brushing tar oil in six shades — Black, Driftwood, Lava, Forest Brown, Forest Grey and Tar Brown. Ideal for decking and garden furniture.
Sizes: 1 L · 3 L · 10 L
How to Apply Pine Tar
Simple application process—no special equipment needed. Just clean, warm (if needed), and brush on.
Prepare the Surface
Clean wood thoroughly. Remove dirt, mildew, and old flaking finishes. Let dry completely—pine tar needs dry wood to penetrate properly.
Warm if Needed
In cold weather, warm the pine tar gently (max 40°C) to thin it for easier application. Never heat near open flames.
Apply Liberally
Brush on generously. Work into end grain and joints where water enters. Don't skimp—excess can be wiped off.
Let it Soak
Allow 24-48 hours for penetration. The wood will absorb what it needs. Wipe off any excess that hasn't soaked in.
Second Coat (Optional)
For maximum protection, apply a second coat once the first is touch-dry. Especially recommended for end grain.
Enjoy for Years
Reapply every 2-5 years depending on exposure. No sanding or stripping needed—just clean and re-coat.
Common Questions
Does pine tar smell?
It has a distinct smoky, woodsy smell when first applied. This dissipates within days to weeks depending on ventilation. Most people find it pleasant or neutral after curing.
Can I use it on pressure-treated timber?
Yes, but pressure-treated wood is already protected. Pine tar adds water repellency and UV protection, extending the life further. Best used on cut ends where treatment may not have penetrated fully.
How long does it last?
On horizontal surfaces (decks), reapply every 2-3 years. Vertical surfaces (fencing, cladding) last 4-5 years. Marine applications may need annual touch-ups.
Can I use it on raised beds and garden structures?
Pine tar is a traditional, plant-based wood treatment that has long been used on garden structures. For specific safety questions, request the product's safety data sheet through our contact page.
What's the coverage?
Approximately 4-8 m² per litre depending on wood porosity. Softwoods absorb more; hardwoods less. End grain uses significantly more.
Ready to Protect Your Wood?
Stock up on authentic Swedish pine tar. Trade accounts available for builders, landscapers, and chandleries.