Composite decking has become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and contractors alike due to its durability, low maintenance and aesthetic appeal. Trex is one of the leading brands of composite decking known for its high-quality materials and wide range of colors and styles.
If you want to learn more about this type of decking this guide is for you. In this guide, we will provide all information you need to know about Trex composite decking including its overview, benefits and how it compares to other decking materials.
Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor or DIY enthusiast, this guide to Trex composite decking will help you make an informed decision about your decking needs. So read on.
Trex Composite Decking
Trex composite decking is a type of decking material made from a mixture of wood fibers, recycled plastic and binding agents. Unlike traditional wood decking, Trex decking does not require staining, painting or sealing, making it a low-maintenance and durable option for outdoor living spaces.
The composite material is engineered to resist fading, staining and mold and is available in a range of colors and styles to suit different design preferences.
Trex composite decking is also environmentally friendly, as it is made from recycled materials and is 95% recycled content. It is a popular choice for decks, patios and other outdoor living spaces due to its durability, low maintenance requirements and aesthetic appeal.
Types Of Trex Composite Decking
Trex offers a variety of composite decking options to meet the needs of various budgets. The following are some of the most popular types:
- Transcend composite decking: Transcend composite decking is the most luxurious option in the Trex lineup and features a deep, wood-grain pattern for an elegant look. It is highly durable and comes in several colors to match any outdoor space.
- Enhance composite decking: Enhanced composite decking offers an impressive level of durability without sacrificing aesthetics. It provides a natural-looking, low-maintenance surface that is perfect for busy households. It comes in several colors and can be installed easily with Trex Hideaway hidden fasteners or traditional face screws.
- Select composite decking: Select composite decking is the most affordable option from Trex and features a classic design that complements any outdoor space. It is highly resistant to fading, staining and scratching and is easy to clean with soap and water.
- Traditional composite decking: Traditional composite decking is the original option from Trex and offers a classic look that never goes out of style. It is highly resistant to fading, staining and scratching, making it an ideal choice for busy households.
Benefits of Trex composite decking
Trex composite decking is an attractive and durable alternative to traditional wooden decking. Trex offers a variety of benefits that make it an excellent choice for any outdoor living space.
- Low maintenance: Trex composite decking is designed to require minimal upkeep, meaning you can spend more time enjoying your outdoor space and less time worrying about maintenance.
- Durable: Trex decking is highly durable and long-lasting. It resists warping, splitting, cracking, rotting and insect damage.
- Eco-friendly: Trex decking is made from recycled materials and does not require the use of harsh chemicals or sealants, making it an eco-friendly choice.
- Cost-effective: Trex composite decking is a cost-effective option that can save money over time. The material requires less maintenance than traditional wooden decking and will last longer.
- Variety of styles: Trex offers a wide variety of styles, colors and textures to choose from, making it easy to create a custom look for your outdoor living space.
- Easy installation: Trex decking is easy to install and can be done by DIYers or professionals. With the right tools and instructions, anyone can install a Trex deck in a few hours.
- Low heat retention: Trex composite decking does not absorb as much heat from the sun as traditional wood decking, making it cooler and more comfortable to walk on.
- Slip resistant: Trex composite decking is slip-resistant, reducing the risk of slipping and falling.
- Warranties: Trex offers a 25-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected in case of any issues.
- Fire resistant: Trex decking is certified as fire resistant, making it safe to use around open flame sources such as fire pits or outdoor grills.
These benefits make Trex composite decking an attractive and durable option for any outdoor living space. With its low maintenance, cost-effective and eco-friendly features, you can’t go wrong with Trex decking!
Installation of Trex Composite Decking
There are a few easy steps to follow to install Trex composite decking.
- Preparation: To install Trex composite decking, you will need the following supplies: saw, drill with bits, measuring tape, level and fasteners. Additionally, you should make sure that all parts of the deck are properly supported and leveled before beginning installation.
- Framing: Next, you will need to build the framework for your Trex Composite Decking. This should include joists and frames made of pressure-treated wood or composite material. Make sure all frames are level, squared and securely attached before installing any deck boards.
- Board layout: When laying out your deck boards, you should consider their orientation, spacing and direction. You may want to use a chalk line to create straight lines for laying out the boards. Additionally, be sure to allow at least a 1/8-inch gap between each board.
- Installing boards: Once the board layout is complete, you can begin to install the boards. Start by placing the first board on one end of the deck frame. Then use a screw gun or drill to secure it in place. Make sure that all screws are properly tightened and countersunk into the wood. Repeat this process for each board until all boards have been installed.
- Fastening: To ensure a secure connection, use galvanized nails or screws to attach the deck boards to the joists. Make sure that these are properly sealed and coated with an approved sealant for outdoor use.
- Finishing: Once the installation is complete, you can finish up your deck with any desired features. This could include painting or staining the boards, adding railings and skirting, or installing decorative trim. With a few simple steps, you can have your own gorgeous Trex Composite Deck that will last for years to come.
Care and Maintenance of Trex Composite Decking
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your Trex decking are essential to ensure its longevity. Here are some tips for proper care and maintenance:
- Cleaning: Use a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt, dust, or debris from the deck. For tougher stains, use a pressure washer with a fan tip. Avoid using bleach or other harsh cleaners as they can damage the composite material.
- Stain Removal: If your Trex decking is stained or discolored, you can use a liquid detergent mixed with warm water to remove the stain. Follow up with light sanding and rinsing with clean water to restore the original color.
- Regular Inspections: Inspect your Trex deck regularly for signs of wear or damage such as cracked boards, splintering, or loose nails. Replace any damaged boards and tighten loose fasteners.
- Protective Treatments: To keep your Trex deck looking its best, you may want to apply a protective coating such as a waterproof sealant or wood preservative. This will help protect the surface from fading and staining over time.
- Proper Storage: Store any unused Trex boards in a dry, shaded area and cover them with a waterproof tarp. This will help prevent warping or cracking due to moisture or extreme temperatures.
With proper care and maintenance, your Trex deck can last for many years. Following these simple tips will ensure that you get the most out of your investment.
FAQs – Trex Composite Decking
How long does Trex composite decking last?
Trex composite decking is designed to last for decades. It resists fading, staining and mold and won’t rot or split. Trex’s 25-Year Limited Residential Fade & Stain Warranty guarantees that its composite decking products will retain their beauty over time.
So you can rest assured knowing your Trex deck will look great and last for many years to come. With proper maintenance, your Trex deck will retain its beauty for a lifetime.
What is the best grade for Trex decking?
The best grade of Trex decking is the Trex Transcend. This high-end composite decking material from Trex has a deep, rich color palette and offers superior fade, stain, scratch and mold resistance. It also comes with a 25-year limited warranty and is made from 95% recycled materials.
The boards are also fade, stain, scratch and mold resistant to keep your deck looking great for years to come. Trex Transcend can be installed with easy-to-use hidden fasteners or traditional face screwing methods. It is an ideal choice for outdoor spaces that see a lot of foot traffic or are exposed to extreme weather conditions.
Does Trex warp in the sun?
The answer to this question is no, Trex does not warp in the sun. Trex composite decking material has been specifically designed to withstand varying weather conditions and temperatures without warping. The material is composed of a combination of wood and plastic fibers that are highly resistant to warping or fading from exposure to harsh UV rays from the sun.
Final Words
Trex composite decking is a great choice for those looking for a durable, low-maintenance decking option that looks and feels like natural wood. With its resistance to moisture, insects and fading, Trex decking is a long-lasting and cost-effective alternative to traditional wood decking.
By following the guidelines in this guide including proper installation, cleaning and maintenance, you can enjoy your Trex deck for years to come. Whether you’re looking to build a new deck or replace an old one, Trex composite decking is a smart and stylish choice that can enhance the beauty and value of your outdoor living space. Thanks for reading!