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Choosing the right composite for your deck is a key part of planning an outdoor space that will last decades and add value to your home. Among all the brands, Trex remains a classic and a true pioneer in the world of composite material. Here’s everything you need to know about Trex decking.
What Are the Advantages of Using Trex?
Trex composite is a trusted and well-established brand. They began making composite wood back in 1996 and since then, have revolutionized the world of decks and outdoor spaces. Today, Trex is the largest composite manufacturer on the planet.
Trex is known for its durability, backed by a 50-year warranty for wear and tear. Its protective shell is mould-resistant, and the material is eco-friendly, made from 95% recycled materials. It won’t chip, fade or crack over time.
Like most composite, Trex requires very little maintenance. A quick clean with soap and water is all it needs. You’ll never have to sand or seal your Trex decking.
Customers can choose from many Trex decking colours thanks to the two series: Transcend™ Premium Tropicals and Transcend™ Lineage™. Together, these two lines offer nine unique shades. Premium Tropicals showcases rich, tropical wood-inspired tones, while Lineage™ focuses on soft, soothing colours that stay cooler in the sun.
Can you paint Trex deck boards? After all, the material lasts so long that you could eventually want to change the colour. The answer depends on the generation of the boards. If you bought a house with older Trex decking, it might be possible to paint it. For new generations, you’ll likely only be able to paint the ends and undersides.
Trex decking installation can be completed with invisible fasteners for an optimal seamless look.
What Is Trex Made Of?
Trex composite is made of recycled plastic film and reclaimed wood fibre, making it eco-friendly. Since no new wood is used in its production, no trees are cut down to create Trex decking.
More precisely, the recycled plastic comes from various sources, including old plastic bags and dry-cleaning bags. The reclaimed wood consists of wood chips, sawdust, tailings, and other wood materials derived from furniture manufacturing.
The materials are carefully processed to create a durable, rock-solid material that is superior to traditional wood.
What Are the Disadvantages of Trex Decking?
You might wonder if a Trex deck is slippery when wet, as is the case for some composite. Like most surfaces, Trex can become slick when wet or icy. However, you can choose a texture with a better grip. In winter, salt and other melting products can be used as long as they are safe for the surface.
Trex composite decking, like many composites, can become quite hot during the summer. While Trex performs better than many other brands – especially the Lineage™ series – some brands specialize in staying cooler in the summer heat. However, if your deck isn’t always in direct sunlight, Trex is an excellent choice.
Another consideration is the cost. Quality, beauty and durability come at a price. If you are looking for a short-term solution, Trex and composite wood, may not be the best option. That said, Trex decking can last for decades without ever needing repainting, sanding, or sealing. While the initial investment is higher than other materials, the long-term value makes it well worth the cost.
How to Maintain Trex Composite
One of Trex composite decking’s most significant advantages is how little maintenance it requires. How to clean Trex decking? It is quite easy. You need to regularly sweep off debris with a soft-bristle broom to prevent the need for more intensive scrubbing later. For light cleaning, you can hose it down to remove any accumulation. For stains, a mild soap mixed with water works well, and a specialized solution can be used to tackle mould if needed.
The best tip is to act quickly. If you spill wine, coffee, or any other substance, rinse it off immediately to prevent stains. You can pressure wash a Trex deck, but be very careful. Always set the water to the lowest pressure and maintain a safe distance to avoid damage. Please know that this advice applies only to the newer generation of Trex, and older generations should not be cleaned with a power washer.
Can’t Go Wrong With Trex
While Trex isn’t the cheapest option, it’s a worthwhile investment that saves you from hassles in the long run. Not only will you enjoy a beautiful deck that adds value to your home, but you’ll also benefit from the durability and low maintenance of Trex materials. Whether you’re drawn to their rich, tropical colour options or prefer the softer, more calming tones, you won’t regret choosing Trex. For any questions regarding Trex or other composite decking brands, don’t hesitate to contact us.