Go ahead—you can replace that bad board in your weathered boathouse, deck, or shed without the new one looking like an obvious fix. Try these time-tested techniques to “age” new wood. Before you commit, test a sample first. And, for a more even finish, sand the end grain and any extra-rough patches where colourants will collect.
1) Darken with an iron wash
Soak fine steel wool in vinegar, at least overnight. Strain and wipe the liquid on the wood. For dark woods rich in tannins, such as oak or red cedar, one application is often enough; you can water down the mix if needed. On light woods, boost the reaction by brushing first with strong tea.
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2) Grey down with Portland cement
Make a thin slurry of cement and water. Paint on a light coat and let dry. Brush away the dust, and wipe or rinse off. The effect is dramatic on cedar, but subtle on pressure-treated lumber, where the cement mutes its green cast.
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3) Age with fire and a stiff brush
To mimic years of wear, burn the board with a torch and then scrub with a wire brush. This method works great on Douglas fir and the harder pines: the soft early wood chars first, leaving ridges of hard late wood. But don’t torch pressure-treated wood, since this can produce toxic fumes.
This article was published in the August 2024 issue of Cottage Life.
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