We have chosen to weatherproof our pits with boiled linseed oil instead of paint for several reasons (please note that this is a different product that regular linseed oil). Over time and with constant exposure to heat, paint is prone to flaking, bubbling, and chipping, making it a less than ideal choice for preventing rust and keeping your pit looking its best.

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Boiled linseed oil is readily available and creates a rugged, rust-proof coating on the metal in a similar way to seasoning cast iron, and it does not require heat to harden and polymerise, although it does help accelerate the process.

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If the coating gets scratched or small rust spots develop, maintenance is simple. Apply a fresh coat of boiled linseed oil to the affected areas using a cloth. The oil will harden within a few days, or you can accelerate the process by heating the surface with a high-powered propane blowtorch. The coating will naturally darken over time, giving each pit a unique look. Running the pit at temperatures above 450°F will also speed up this process, as will using the pit as normal.

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It is important not to apply boiled linseed oil to any internal surfaces of the pit, as the drying agents in the oil can be harmful if they come into contact with food. To protect the internal surfaces from rust, we recommend applying a thin coat of vegetable oil or tallow and then running the pit in offset mode with a fire between 450 and 500°F for at least two hours.

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We also recommend cleaning out ash from the firebox regularly, as it retains moisture and can accelerate corrosion. After slow cooking, rendered fat may accumulate at the bottom of the pit. Drain it using the ball valve at the base of the cooking chamber to reduce the risk of a grease fire.

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Important Safety Note:
Cloths, rags, or paper towels used to apply boiled linseed oil can spontaneously combust if left crumpled up due to the oil’s highly reactive oxidation process. To safely dispose of them, immediately submerge them in a metal container filled with water and leave them fully soaked until disposal.

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By following these care and maintenance steps, your pit will last indefinitely.