Materials & finishes

2 tools · 3 guides · 3 comparisons

Cedar, treated pine, composite and ipe — what each costs, how long it lasts and what it takes to keep it.

Tools

Gallons for a deck of any size, by surface and coat count.

Composite decking material cost by brand tier, board width and deck size.

Transparent to solid, when to stain new wood, and the prep that decides the result.

5/4×6, 2×6 and 5/4×4 — coverage, cost and the look each one gives.

Realistic service life by material, and what shortens it the most.

Ten-year cost, feel underfoot, and the case each material really wins.

Treated pine, cedar, composite and ipe on cost, life and upkeep.

Cost per square foot, install speed and how each looks after a season.

8 pages in this pillar