With a penetrating oil finish, like on decks, can it be applied in 1 heavy coat? Will this finish out looking good? If so, what is the decrease in coverage and production with this system? Thanks for your help!

That I guess depends on the type of wood, and the condition of the wood.
If it is new construction ie.. new deck, a heavy coat might cover, but it would completely suck up the materials. And just as the case in a penetrating stain, some wood will devour your materials in different places. Best bet Jim, 2 coats to be sure. You may get lucky and have the material cover, but will it hold up against time and the weather?

thats my 2 cents worth, .. for what thats worth.

good luck
Rob.

Jim:

It depends on the product you use. Most top quality products should be applied in two coats, wet on wet. The first coat as a sealer/"filler" coat, followed by another. "Wet on wet" meaning giving it a short time to penetrate. Check the manufacturer's recommendations.

A major portion of our exteriors and the majority of our profits come from deck refinishing. I prefer to do this more than anything else.

Thanks y'all, I do appreciate your input. I was actually thinking of offering an alternative scope of work , being 1 coat for a lesser price. I was most concerned about whether or not a 1 coat job would be presentable. After hearing from you guys, I think I'll stay away from it.