Abstract: A protective end cap adapted to engage the distal end of a wood plank. The protective end cap may include a spine and tapered sides extending from either side of the spine. Alternatively or additionally, the protective end cap may have a generally concave curvature along a lengthwise axis of the elongate body. The protective end cap may include an internal surface formed to contiguously engage the external surface of the distal end of the wood planks. Furthermore, the protective end cap may have an internal diameter that gradually increases as the sides extend from the spine. A wood plank including a protective end cap and a method for protecting a wood plank from damage by securing an end cap to the wood plank are likewise disclosed.