Trex VS Wood

YOUR NEW DECK: Trex VS Wood?

13 February 2022

"Decking" refers to the material you walk on

Of the many materials available for decking, the two most popular currently are pressure-treated wood and Trex composites , a blend of wood and plastic. Tex won't crack, warp, rot or splinter. Trex composites are by far the most popular type of non-wood decking, accounting for 80 percent of all non-wood products sold. 

On a tight budget, pressure-treated wood will likely be your best bet

There are long-term drawbacks, but the lower cost of the material delivers the most deck for your money. If you can afford more, it would be a good idea to weigh the advantages of composite decking.

Prices of composites are competitive with those for cedar or redwood

But expect to pay more for composites than for pressure-treated pine. Currently, composites have a smaller share (16%) of the market but that share has been growing.

Trex Decks are low-maintenance decks

Low maintenance equals less time and money over the long term, when compared to wood.

Trex Composite decking is not a structural material

So, the structural elements of your deck, like the posts and joists, will be treated wood. Some composites are engineered to span joists on 12-inch centers if laid diagonally. Some will feel spongy to walk on if laid diagonally on joists on 16-inch centers. An important factor in your design or when considering decking board replacement.

Trex Composite decking can be curved

Allowing for design more creative than wood by using curves, accent boards and borders. You can use the image search of your favorite search engine to see "composite deck images." 

Estimating costs of Trex composite and wood decks is not easy

You can simplify the task by asking a contractor experienced in building both wood and Trex composite decks to give you estimates on both. 

Composite manufacturers offer warranties which cover fading and stain resistance

One reason to consider composite is their warranties. Most major manufacturers offer warranties lasting 25 years or longer. While the product is designed to resist fading, no material is fade proof when subjected to years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays and the elements. Check out TimberTech Edge warranties for an example of warranties and how they affect your purchase

The new, improved composites can't be painted

The core of the composite is “capped” by a PVC shell that helps protect it from the elements. This shell can't be painted.

Trex Composite decking requires less maintenance than wood

But it's more easily damaged if the wrong cleaning products or methods are used. Following the manufacturer's recommendations is important.

Because they retain heat better

Composite decking will get hotter than wood. However, when hosed down, the heat dissipates quickly.

Some smooth-finish non-wood decking is slippery when wet

But most Trex composite decking has a rough texture to improve slip resistance. You can get samples from the manufacturer or your contractor might have one.

Composite manufacturers are eager to sell to the DIY market

But their warranties exclude for improperly installed decking. With your warranty in mind, should you choose to do it yourself, It would be a good idea to follow the instructions precisely while documenting each task with video. Hiring a contractor trained by the manufacturer would obviously cost more than doing it yourself  but strengthen your position on warranty claims.