We often get asked about Trex composite decking when talking to commercial property managers or even residential homeowners. We found this Q&A with the best questions and answers about Trex from Home Depot.
So without further ado, here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
Who they are.
Trex Company, Inc. is the manufacturer of Trex® decking, railing, fencing and trim and is the leading brand of alternative decking lumber in North America. A former division of Mobil Corporation, the company was formed by four Mobil executives in 1995 and went public in April 1999. The company’s headquarters and a manufacturing facility are located in Winchester, VA. They also has a manufacturing facility in Fernley, NV.
Why are Trex® decking, railing, or fencing and trim products better than wood?
Trex products offer superior durability and performance that you can’t get from wood. They won’t rot, warp, or splinter; and they never require staining or painting to maintain great looks.
If it is made from recycled materials, why is it more expensive than wood?
While most of the raw materials used in making Trex are recycled, these materials are carefully processed to ensure the highest level of quality and performance. If you would like to learn more about our materials and programs, please review our Environmentally Friendly page.
What is the lifetime value?
Because it never rots or warps, painting and staining is not required, however with pressure-treated wood decks, these costs add up over time. After four years, the total cost of owning a Trex deck equals the cost of a pressure-treated wood deck. Over the life of the purchase, Trex offers a far greater value than wood. Clean it twice a year and you’re done so you can spend more time enjoying your outdoor living space, rather than working on it.
Will Trex® products weather (change color/fade)?
Because the wood fiber in Trex will be exposed to water and sunlight, the product will lighten over time. It will achieve its weathered color after 12-16 weeks.
Why isn’t it structural?
Trex has made a market decision to offer a product that will provide the customer with a superior walking surface, guardrail system, fencing and trim.
Is it heavy?
Trex weighs about 50-70% heavier than comparable lumber sections with a specific gravity of about 0.96.
Is it code-compliant?
Trex products have been tested to ensure compliance with the 2006 International Building Code. Check with our local building code department for jurisdictional requirements.
Can Trex® decking be curved?
With help and considerable patience, Trex can be curved with the proper tools and instructions. See our Installation Guide.
Can a groove be cut in the side of a Trex® deck board?
Yes, a groove can be cut in the side of Trex wood polymer decking to accept hidden fasteners.
Can Trex® be sanded or power washed?
We do not recommend sanding. Sanding will change the appearance of the material surface.
For standard Trex decking (composite and PVC), Trex does not recommend the use of a power washer. Use of a power washer can damage the decking surface and will void the warranty with respect to any condition caused by the power washing.
Trex Transcend products can be power washed. A 1500 psi power washer may be used on Transcend’s shell surface to remove dirt and debris. Use a fan tip at least 4 inches (10.2 cm) away from the shell when you are using the power washer.
