The demand for environmentally friendly and almost maintenance-free Trex composite decking is growing every year. But why has this home-improvement newcomer gotten so much attention?



Home ownership comes with a seemingly endless list of maintenance tasks, so home improvements that reduce the ongoing investment of time and money generate a lot of buzz—especially when they deliver on their promises while also being environmentally friendly. So, is Trex the ideal decking material? Let's find out.

Trex is made from a composite material that can withstand structural loads, so it is best suited for surface applications. The most obvious use is for deck surfaces, but Trex can also be used for:



• Benches
• Planters
• Pool, hot tub, or sauna decks
• Outdoor furniture
• Yard games
• Shelves



And that's just the beginning! Trex can be used for any application where a durable, low-maintenance surface is needed.

Trex makes a compelling case for its composite materials as an alternative to wood. Here are some of the advantages:

Low Maintenance

Increased durability is one of the primary advantages of Trex and other composite decking. To keep the boards looking brand new, all you need is soap and water. So, while you will pay more to install Trex (more on this below), you may repossess those costs when compared to the cost of repairing or replacing a traditional wood deck.

Long Lifespan

While a standard wood deck will eventually rot due to the elements, Trex decking will last for more than 25 years. A wood deck, on the other hand, typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Trex decking does not rot or warp like wood, and it does not require painting or staining. It's also resistant to termites and weather damage. But do remember that Trex decking, like most decks, has a weight limit of about 40 pounds per square foot.

Environmentally Friendly

Composite wood is typically made of a combination of wood, plastic, and additives. Trex, on the other hand, claims to have "never felled a single tree," and that 95% of the materials used to make it are recycled. It's a green solution for homeowners concerned about their carbon footprint.

Variety of Colors & Styles

Trex flooring can complement and enhance the aesthetic of your backyard, whether it is a coastal home, a contemporary house, a rustic cabin, or a charming house design. Trex offers over 20 deck colors, including natural earth tones, tropical tones, or monochromatic colors, giving you design flexibility.

Easy To Install

Trex comes with hidden fasteners, so nails and screws aren't visible on the surface of your deck. You will also not need any special tools to install them—just a power screwdriver.

Long Warranty

Trex decking is backed by a minimum 25-year residential fade and stain warranty, with some warranties extending to 50 years. The warranty gives you peace of mind while shopping and protects your investment.

No product is perfect, and Trex decking has a few disadvantages:



Cost



A wood deck costs between $1 and $5 per square foot, whereas Trex decking costs between $9 and $16 per square foot. Deck repair, on the other hand, costs around $2,000 on average. Deck staining typically costs $850 and should be done every two to three years. Calculate the costs of common wood deck maintenance and repairs to determine whether the high initial Trex composite decking price tag is appropriate for you.



Appearance



Composite decking attempts to mimic the appearance of wood, but it will never be an exact match. Composites may be too polished and refined for homeowners who want an authentic wood look and feel. You must test and feel the composites before purchasing them to determine whether they will fit your desired lifestyle and wants.



Heat Absorption



While all deck boards, including wood, become hot in the sun, composite decking transfers heat more quickly. Consider installing a lighter color of Trex flooring if you live in a sunny area to avoid hot surfaces. You could also choose to spend a little more money to get their Trex Transcend Lineage.



Maintenance



While Trex decking does not require staining every few years like wood decks, it does require regular deck maintenance to keep it clean and free of mold and mildew. Keep an eye on areas with trees because they tend to stay wet longer.



Repairs



If a Trex board is damaged, it is difficult to repair without a Trex kit, and you may have to replace the entire deck board. You'll need to find the exact color and style of Trex so that the new board doesn't stand out. As a result, it's a good idea to buy a few extra boards when installing your deck, just in case something goes wrong.



Overall, Trex composite decking is a good option for homeowners who are looking for a low-maintenance, durable, and environmentally friendly decking material. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.