Abstract: A pitch coated board and method of manufacture are disclosed. A porous or fibrous material, is coated and partially impregnated with a thin layer, less than 10 mil in thickness, of a petroleum or coal tar pitch. A high softening point, above 200F, coal tar or petroleum pitch is heated, then preferably roller coated on a fibrous material, then cooled within 1-2 seconds or less, to produce the pitch coated material. The porous material may be heated, preferably superficially, prior to application of the pitch to facilitate some penetration.