What Is Trex Decking? Everything You Need to Know

If you’re preparing to build a deck, you’ve likely come across the term Trex and wondered, what is Trex decking? Composite decking like Trex gives you wood deck vibes without the hassle and expense required to maintain it. If you’ve been considering Trex decking, keep reading. This guide explains everything you need to know about Trex decks: benefits, drawbacks, and whether the popular composite brand is right for your home. 

What Is Trex Decking?

Trex decking refers to a brand of composite decking. Composite is a type of decking that’s made of both wood and non-organic material, like plastic. Visually, composite closely resembles wood, but there are few upgrades with Trex composite decking.

As a composite option, Trex decking lasts longer than standard wood, and it requires less maintenance. Decreased maintenance requirements mean long-term cost savings, so you may be able to splurge on a more luxurious type of Trex decking upfront.

Trex advertises its decking as "high-performance" and "eco-friendly" and claims that the material will maintain its color even after years of exposure to elements. Additionally, Trex can be made to mimic different kinds of wood, such as cedar or redwood. So, whether you want the classic wood look or a more modern appearance, there’s a Trex decking option for you. 

Trex Decking Costs

The cost to install Trex decking falls between $1,600 and $9,600, with the average price of $4,800. The cost depends on the Trex series and color, linear footage, and extra features. You can expect to budget $2.20 to $8.50 per linear foot for Trex decking. Prices will vary based on the tier of decking you choose.

Types of Trex Decking

Trex offers five main types of decking, varying in price, durability, and thickness. They’re all stain-, scratch-, and fade-resistant. 

Trex Enhance

Trex Enhance is the lowest-cost option with boards that are 0.94 inches thick. This decking type comes in natural and basic color tones, including a traditional wood grain. The cost ranges from $2.20 per linear foot. Trex Enhance comes with a 25-year fade and stain warranty. 

Trex Select

Trex Select is the mid-grade series, and it’s available in earth tone colors. The boards are 0.82 inches thick. The cost is $4 per linear foot, with a 35-year fade and stain warranty. Trex Select tends to be easier and faster to install than Enhance, making it a solid DIY option. 

Trex Transcend

Trex Transcend is the mid-to-high-end option and offers the most durability. The boards are 0.94 inches thick and cost $6.05 per linear foot. You can select from a variety of tropical and earth tone colors. Trex Transcend comes with a 50-year limited residential fade and stain warranty.

Trex Transcend Lineage 

Trex Transcend Lineage is a high-end option that boasts heat-mitigating technology. The boards are .94 inches thick and come with either square or grooved edges. This newest option in the Trex decking family has a 50-year limited residential warranty and costs an average of $6.50 per linear foot. 

Trex Signature

If you want the top-of-the-line luxury option, Signature is your tier. Trex Signature boards are .94 inches thick and come in two signature colors. This indulgent option costs $8.50 per linear foot and has a 50-year limited residential warranty. 

Trex Extras

To add style and function to your outdoor space, Trex offers a range of add-ons and accessories for your deck. You can match the colors and style exactly or build in contrast.

Trex carries products such as:

• Deck drainage system

• Outdoor lighting

• Outdoor kitchen cabinets

• Pergola

• Lattice

Benefits of Trex Decking

Trex makes a strong case for its composite materials as an alternative to wood, with three main benefits standing out.

1. It Costs Almost Nothing to Maintain

One main benefit of Trex, and any other composite decking, is increased durability. All you need is soap and water to keep the boards looking brand-new. So while you will pay more upfront to install Trex (more on this below), you may recoup those costs when considering how much it costs to repair or replace a regular wood deck.

2. It Lasts Much Longer Than Wood Decks

While a standard wood deck eventually succumbs to the weather, Trex decking lasts for a very long time, more than 25 years. By comparison, a wood deck typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Trex decking won’t rot or warp as easily as wood, and you won’t need to paint or stain the material either. It’s also resistant to termites and damage from the elements. Like most decks, the Trex decking weight limit is approximately 40 pounds per square foot.

3. It’s Made Using Mostly Recycled Materials

Composite wood is typically built from a blend of wood, plastic, and additives. However, Trex claims that they have "never felled a single tree," and that 95% of the materials used to make it are recycled. It’s an eco-friendly solution for homeowners concerned about their environmental footprint.

4. It Comes in a Range of Colors and Styles

Whether you have a coastal home or a rustic cabin, Trex flooring can match and enhance your backyard aesthetic. Available in over 20 deck colors, including natural wood grain and tropical tones, Trex gives you versatility in your design.

5. It Comes With a Long-Term Warranty

All Trex decking is backed by at least a 25-year residential fade and stain warranty, and in some cases, the warranty extends to 50 years. The warranty gives you confidence while shopping and ensures your investment is protected. 

6. Fasteners Are Hidden and Easy to Use

Trex comes with hidden fasteners so nails and screws aren’t noticeable on your deck’s surface. You won’t need any special tools to install them either—only a power screwdriver. 

Cons of Trex Decking

Although Trex can claim some advantages, there are some drawbacks interested buyers must consider before installing.

1. The Price Is Pretty Hefty

Lumber can be purchased for much less than the upfront cost of Trex decking. Though the decreased maintenance costs of Trex will even out the price in the long run, this is an important downside for people with smaller budgets. 

2. The Boards Do Not Look Exactly Like Wood

Composite decking tries its best to mimic the look of wood, but it will never be an exact match. Homeowners who crave that authentic wood look and feel may find composites too polished and refined for their tastes.

3. The Deck Can Feel Hot in the Sun

While all deck boards, even wood, get hot in the sun, composite decking tends to transfer heat more quickly. If you live in a sunny area, consider installing a lighter color of Trex flooring to mitigate hot surfaces.

4. You’ll Still Have Some Maintenance 

While Trex decking doesn’t require you to stain it every few years like wood decks, you will need to perform regular deck maintenance to keep it clean to prevent mold and mildew. Keep an eye on tree-covered areas, as they tend to stay wet longer. 

5. Repairing the Deck Can Be More Difficult 

If a Trex board gets damaged, it’s difficult to repair without a Trex kit, and you may need to replace the deck board altogether. You’ll need to find the exact color and style of Trex so the new board doesn’t stick out like an eyesore. For this reason, it’s best to buy a few extra boards when you install your deck, so replacements are available should anything occur. 

When to Use Trex Decking

Trex decking is great for building a range of deck styles. It holds up especially well in climates with lots of rain and snow. 

Here are the types of projects you can build with Trex decking:

• Attached or detached deck

• Multi-tier deck

• Pool, hot tub, or sauna deck

• Side deck

• Entryway deck

• Custom deck

• Outdoor benches

• Planters and shelves

Trex Decking Considerations

Deciding whether Trex decking—or any composite material—is worth the higher upfront price depends on your priorities. Here are a few things you should consider before making a decision.

• Are you ok with the look and feel of composite decking? Are you a wood purist who would be disappointed with anything other than authentic wood boards, or does composite work? Rich colors and textured graining can go a long way in making Trex boards look the part, but you’ll need to study samples to be sure.

• How important is the price? Are you more interested in long-term savings, or will upfront costs sway your decision? Trex offers low-maintenance decks at a premium price, so you’ll have to decide which feature is more important.

• How handy are you? Weekends are valuable. While some people love to take on projects in their spare time, others want to kick up their feet and use the deck as intended. If staining your wood deck boards ignites more fear than joy, composite deck options might be your best bet.

Hire a Professional for a Consultation

If you're thinking about Trex decking, why not let a professional weigh in? A professional deck builder near you can inspect the site, consult with you on the best materials to use, and provide a quote. Ask their opinion on Trex and their experience with installing the material. Chatting with a knowledgeable contractor will help you design a deck you can enjoy for years (maybe even decades) to come.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Installing Trex decking might look like a satisfying project for weekend DIY warriors. But Trex is a premium material, and installing it wrong equals costly mistakes, like warped boards, uneven spacing, or worse, a voided warranty.

Remember, decking professionals know how to account for expansion gaps and joist spacing. They are also up to speed on local building codes, so your deck will be safe and correct in their hands. Experienced DIYers with attention to detail can complete this project, but most homeowners should leave it to the experts.