When it comes to creating a stunning outdoor space, selecting the right decking material is critical. Two industry giants, Trex vs. TimberTech, have long been the top choices for homeowners, contractors, and builders. Both brands offer the best composite deck boards and composite decking materials, but how do you make the right choice between them?
Trex decking is already the most well known composite decking brand in the marketplace. As a company they have been a major player amongst other brands such as TimberTech, Fiberon and Deckorator. One thing that Trex has been behind on that other companies have offered is a line of decking that deflects heat. This is what Trex has sought to do with Trex Lineage.
What are Trex hidden fasteners? They help install any Trex grooved boards to the joists with no visible screw heads on the surface. When installed they provide a precise consistent spacing between the deck boards. Glass-filled nylon helps add more durability to the fasteners, adding in a stainless-steel screw for easy installation. Being mad from these materials makes them longer lasting and made to withstand any weather conditions. Small spacing in between each board and these being set below surface level makes these fasteners hidden to the eye.
So, what is Trex Protect? It’s a tape that is used for the joist, beam, and rim joist to help prevent rot and wood decay. This is important to have because the spacing in between each deck board allows water to fall through the deck. However, the wood below the decking like the joists, beams, and rim joists are left exposed to the elements. Having this tape will eliminate splitting from freezing and thawing, additionally seals deck fasteners and prevents moisture. The tape being made from butyl helps deck screws hold longer and stronger than acrylic or asphalt-based tape.
Let’s start with what is a Pergola. A pergola is an open and grid design that offer in more sunlight than a gazebo. They’re great for creating a nice outdoor space and now are becoming more customizable. Generally, pergolas are made from cedar wood; opposed to Trex which makes there pergola’s out of aluminum or aluminum reinforced PVC. Using these materials makes them lighter and longer lasting. Not to mention Trex offers a variety of options to tailor the pergola to the homeowner.
With summer being around the corner, means more time spent outside enjoying the nice weather. Makes for perfect nights for a bon fire on the deck or even just sitting around a table enjoying company. Although sometimes when nightfall comes people will go inside the house where the lights are on. Adding Trex Outdoor Lighting is a great way to keep the party or the conversations on the deck going. This helps add to the value and use of the deck by creating a space in which you can take the party to or retreat too at night.
In a previous blog post titled “What is Trex RainEscape?” went over what the product is and how it works. Now the question is “Why Get Trex RainEscape?” well to put it simply it depends on what the homeowner feels is necessary. However, the benefits that come with Trex RainEscape make it a product that may change the why into when.
Trex RainEscape is a drainage system for your deck. The system sits over the joists creating a trough that sends water into the downspout, which then funnels the water into the gutters. Trex RainEscape is made with rugged plastic and ultraviolet inhibitors, providing durability to withstand any extreme weather. Not only is it durable but also easy to install, needing only scissors or utility knife, staple gun, and a caulking gun. Instillation of this drainage system takes about one or two hours for the most part.
The biggest con facing a buyer is the high initial cost of Trex, it is a more expensive material than wood and so initial sticker shock can deter a lot of potential buyers. Another con is that not all deck builders have experience building Trex decks, they are not the same as a wood deck, so it is important to talk to a builder that has Trex experience. With these in mind, it is also important think about the future of the deck and its added value to your home. Though Trex is expensive, the long-term investment is unrivaled. Upkeep required is minimal, it is built to withstand all types of climates, and there is a large selection of colors that is sure to catch anyone’s eye.
