Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about the Instant Barn Wood Treatment?
Here are some of the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Instant Barn Wood Treatment.
How does the treatment work?
The treatment works by oxidizing the wood through a scientific process called ebonisation. In short, the treatment accelerates the natural oxidation of wood to impart it with that beautiful, weathered barn wood grey colour, all the while keeping the structural integrity of new wood.
Is your product compatible with all types of wood?
Of course! The treatment works on both hardwood and softwood. To get an idea of the possible results, check out our Results Table.
Can I use it on bamboo?
Contrary to popular belief, bamboo is not a tree, it belongs to the Poaceae family; which includes wheat, corn, herbs and grasses. Since it is not a tree, it does not yield wood and therefore does not contain the same elements that wood possesses and will not turn grey. We do not recommend using the IBW treatment on bamboo.
Can I use it on pressure-treated wood?
Pressure treated wood posseses properties that protect it from the wear and tear of Mother Nature. The industrial treatment used imparts that classic brown colour. We would prefer that your wood lasts as long as possible, therefore we do not recommend using chemical cleaners that contain oxalic acid before applying the IBW treatment. However, if you would like to clean your surface before applying our IBW product, simply rinsing with water in a pressure washer would be best.
We recommend preparing the IBW treatment with method A, which simply mixes all 4 pouches together, before applying the treatment. The colour of the wood will become a dark brownish-grey on new pressure-treated wood.
Can I expect a uniform colour on my project?
If you are using a single plank of raw wood, the colour will be similar. If your project requires more than a single plank or is glued and laminated together, you will have variations in colour as they are made of different cuts and parts of the tree. Each section and cut is unique in its tannin and lignin concentration and formation. We recommend using this kind of wood to really show off the rustic and natural look of weathered wood and give it that authentic look!
When weathering the wood with the IBW Treatment, does it weaken the the structure and reduce its lifespan?
No, the IBW Treatment contains an active ingredient that possesses properties that protect against mould and rot that relatively extends the lifetime of the wood.
How do you apply the product?
The application of our product couldn’t be any simpler! Here are a few suggestions: a clean, old rag, a sponge, a paintbrush, a paint roller, a paint gun or any other washable, non-metallic tool that holds liquid. You can even dip it if you have a container large enough!
Is the product compatible for exterior projects and does it offer UV protection?
The product can be used for indoor and outdoor projects. However, it does not contain any UV protection, which means that the treated wood used will weather naturally with the seasons.
Do you have to apply the treatment outdoors?
This product can be used both indoors and outdoors. It does not contain any VOCs, is heavy metal free and does not present any dangers for the environment nor for the human being.
Is the IBW Treatment really 100% non-toxic?
Yes, all the raw materials chosen for the formulation of the treatment have been verified by chemical reagent authorities for their toxicity. None of the reagents in the kit present a toxicological risk for the human being and fauna. Once the product has dried to the touch after the last coat, there is no health risk. However, it is highly recommended that children and pets be kept at bay while using this product. Consult our Safety Data Sheet here : SDS – English
Is applying a varnish mandatory after the treatment?
No, it is not mandatory. However, you may choose to do so if you would like to further protect your wooden project.
How do I know what color to expect after the Treatment?
The expected colour the treatment imparts will vary depending on the chosen species of wood and chosen usage method (A or B). Check out our Different Wood Species section for more information.
Will the colour change over time?
Over time, if unprotected from UV rays, the colour will fade. The application of a sealant with UV protection on top of the IBW Treatment will reduce fading caused by the four seasons. Refer to the users manual of the sealant manufacturer for more information on the protection it offers.
Does the treatment repel insects?
The IBW Treatment is an eco-friendly product that does not contain any insect repelling agents.
How long is the product’s drying time?
The drying time between each coat can vary from 45 mins to 3 hrs or more depending on the surrounding environment.
How can I get the maximum weathered barn wood effect?
Each coat of treatment added will enhance the weathered barn wood effect on the surface of the wood. We recommend a minimum of two coats of treatment, however, you can add more if you would like to enhance the effect even further.
How can I determine the required product quantity for my project?
We have a handy calculator tool to help you do just that!
How long does the product keep?
In its new, sealed, unopened and dry state, the product has an indefinite shelf life. If prepared using method A, it will keep around 2 weeks. If prepared using method B, the Booster alone will keep around 2 weeks, and the IBW 1, 2 and 3 : a year.
How long does shipping take?
In Canada, regular shipping generally takes around 9 working days.
What can I do if I don’t like the result after treating my wood?
If the effect was not what you had wanted, you can always sand away the surface to bring it back to its raw wood state.
Oops, I didn’t apply it properly! How do I fix uneven application?
If you made a mistake and have an uneven result, you have two options:
- Add another coat of treatment to cover the unevenness;
- Sand the uneven surface and start again.