TOOLS & MATERIALS

What you need to keep porch or deck in repair.

For tackling porch projects.

1. FAST CUTS

The pro-quality 6 ½ " plunge circular saw cuts through wood cleanly, leaving splinter-free, mirror-perfect end grain. The SP6000J has a powerful 12-amp motor. It’s capable of large cuts: up to 2 3 /16" at 90 degrees, and almost 2" at 45 degrees; $379. Makita Power Tools, (800) 462-5482 makita.com

2. ON DECK

Clear vertical-grain Douglas fir porch decking is a standard for long-lived porch floors. These tongue-and-groove boards measure 3 1 /8" wide and come in lengths from 3' to 12'. Depending on volume, cost is $5.95 to $8.25 per sq. ft. Altrufir, (877) 372-9663, dougfirflooring.com

3. ENRICH THE GRAIN

Protect and stain a porch floor or deck with Timber Oil, a triple blend of premium oils that penetrate the wood, protecting it from water damage, mildew, and UV degradation. Comes in five colors; $57.99 per gallon. Thompson’s WaterSeal, (800) 367-6297, thompsonswaterseal.com

4. TO FILL THE GAP

Bridge gaps and fill voids in damaged wood by combining 105 epoxy resin and

205 fast hardener. Mixed at a 5 to 1 ratio, the system forms a high-strength, moistureresistant solid that can be sanded and shaped when cured. One gallon/one quart kit: $157.37. West System, (866) 937-8797, westsystem.com

5. FOR ANGLED JOINERY

Transfer angles and lay out dovetails with the iGaging sliding T-bevel gauge. The 9" bluedsteel blade slides and locks in place with a comfortable knurled knob. The ebony handle set with brass wear strips is 6" long; $29.99. Rockler, (800) 279-4441, rockler.com