We use independent testing as the stated lifetime generally doesn't work for us.
Clear - including Thompson - about 1 year. Semi-transparent about two/three years. Semi-solid about three/four. Solid about five. Tested on horizontal surfaces in mid NY State. Annual applications with oil help fill the void created by evaporation of the water content. Without filling those voids the lumber will wick water back in speeding decay.
I used marine grade Penofin for years... and I'm not in a waterfront situation.
Other than that... you will get graying, fiber breakdown, and will need to brighten (which is much worse for the lake). The chemistry of the oil based sealer/stains is lighter hydrocarbons, and should have no more effect on the lake than powerboats. It floats on the surface and evaporates into the air.
Trex is mostly recycled plastic and sawdust with a nylon coating.
It has several levels of quality... but none of them should ''warp''. So they may want to put in for a warranty claim.
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