A Guide to Best Decking Materials For Your Home

A Guide to Best Decking Materials For Your Home

When planning to enhance your home with a beautiful deck, choosing the right material is crucial. With numerous options available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, it can be challenging to determine which material will best suit your needs and lifestyle. This guide will help you navigate the best decking materials, ensuring you make an informed decision for your outdoor living space.

1. Pressure-Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood is one of the most popular choices for decking due to its affordability and resistance to insects and rot. This type of wood is chemically treated to withstand the elements, making it a durable option for varied climates. However, it requires regular maintenance, including staining and sealing, to prevent warping and splintering.

Pros:

  • Cost-effective
  • Readily available
  • Durable against pests and rot

Cons:

  • Requires regular maintenance
  • Can warp or splinter over time

2. Cedar and Redwood

For those seeking a more natural look, cedar and redwood are excellent choices. These woods are naturally resistant to decay and insects, offering a beautiful, long-lasting decking option. They are more expensive than pressure-treated wood but require less chemical treatment.

Pros:

  • Natural resistance to decay and insects
  • Attractive appearance
  • Less maintenance than pressure-treated wood

Cons:

  • Higher cost
  • Requires periodic staining and sealing

3. Composite Decking

Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic, offering a low-maintenance and long-lasting solution. This material is resistant to fading, staining, and scratching, making it ideal for busy households. Brands like Trex and TimberTech offer a variety of colors and textures, ensuring a perfect match for any home.

Pros:

  • Low maintenance
  • Highly durable
  • Resistant to fading, staining, and scratching

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost
  • Can get hot in direct sunlight

4. PVC Decking

PVC decking is 100% plastic, providing an ultra-low-maintenance and long-lasting option. It’s resistant to moisture, insects, and rot, making it a reliable choice for humid summers and cold winters. PVC decking is available in various colors and finishes, mimicking the look of natural wood without the upkeep.

Pros:

  • Extremely low maintenance
  • Resistant to moisture and insects
  • Durable in extreme weather conditions

Cons:

  • Higher cost
  • Some options can appear less natural

5. Aluminum Decking

Aluminum decking is a modern, high-performance option that is incredibly durable and virtually maintenance-free. It’s resistant to rust, mold, and mildew, making it a great choice for homeowners looking for a long-term investment. Aluminum decking is also eco-friendly, as it’s often made from recycled materials.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting and durable
  • Low maintenance
  • Resistant to rust, mold, and mildew

Cons:

  • High upfront cost
  • Limited color and style options

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When selecting the best decking material for your home, consider factors such as your budget, desired maintenance level, and aesthetic preferences. Pressure-treated wood and cedar offer natural beauty and affordability, while composite and PVC decking provide low-maintenance, long-lasting solutions. For those willing to invest more upfront, aluminum decking offers unmatched durability and minimal upkeep.

By weighing the pros and cons of each material, you can make an informed decision that ensures your new deck is a beautiful, functional, and lasting addition to your home. Whether you’re hosting summer barbecues or enjoying quiet evenings under the stars, the right decking material will enhance your outdoor living experience for years to come.

Check Out This Blog!

PVC vs. Composite Decking: Which is Right for Your Home?

PVC vs. Composite Decking: Which is Right for Your Home?

When it comes to choosing the perfect decking material for your home, PVC and composite decking are two popular options that offer durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. However, each has its unique characteristics that might make one a better fit for your specific needs. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between PVC and composite decking to help you make an informed decision.

What is PVC Decking?

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is a type of synthetic decking material made entirely from plastic. Unlike traditional wood decking, PVC is designed to mimic the look of wood but with added durability and low maintenance.

Advantages of PVC Decking:

  • Durability: PVC decking is highly resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, making it a long-lasting choice for various weather conditions.
  • Low Maintenance: It requires minimal upkeep, needing only occasional cleaning with soap and water to maintain its appearance.
  • Color and Design Options: PVC decking comes in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing for customization to match your home’s aesthetic.

Disadvantages of PVC Decking:

  • Cost: PVC decking tends to be more expensive upfront compared to composite options.
  • Appearance: While modern PVC decking closely resembles wood, some people still prefer the authentic look and feel of real wood.

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic. This combination provides the natural appearance of wood with the added benefits of synthetic materials.

Don't leave your project to chance. Contact Omaha's Platinum TimberTech Azek and Gold Trex contractor.

Advantages of Composite Decking:

  • Natural Look: Composite decking closely mimics the look and feel of natural wood, often with more variation and texture.
  • Durability: It is also resistant to moisture, insects, and rot, similar to PVC decking.
  • Environmental Benefits: Many composite decking products are made from recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Disadvantages of Composite Decking:

  • Maintenance: While less maintenance-intensive than wood, composite decking may require periodic cleaning to prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Cost: Composite decking can be costly, though it often provides good value over time due to its longevity and low maintenance requirements.

Key Considerations

  • Budget: Determine your budget and compare the upfront costs of PVC and composite decking, keeping in mind long-term maintenance costs.
  • Aesthetic Preferences: Consider whether you prefer the look of wood or a synthetic material and how it will complement your home.
  • Climate and Usage: Evaluate your local climate and how the decking material will perform in your area, especially if you live in a region with extreme weather conditions.

Conclusion

Both PVC and composite decking offer significant benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on your preferences, budget, and specific needs. PVC decking excels in low maintenance and durability, while composite decking provides a more natural wood appearance with eco-friendly advantages. By carefully considering these factors, you can select the decking material that best suits your home and lifestyle.

Check Out This Blog!

Wood Deck vs. Composite Deck

Wood Deck vs. Composite Deck: What’s the Best Choice for Your Home?

Introduction: The Battle of Decking Materials
Choosing between a traditional wood deck and a composite deck can be a tough decision for homeowners. Each material offers unique advantages, and understanding the differences in cost, maintenance, and durability can help you make the right choice. In this blog, we’ll compare wood decking with wood-plastic composite boards and discuss which might be the best fit for your home.

Wood Decking vs. Composite Decking

A wood deck brings the classic beauty of natural timber, while wood-plastic composite decking is a modern alternative that offers durability and low maintenance. The choice comes down to factors like aesthetics, long-term upkeep, and how the deck will be used.

Wood Decking:

  • Appearance: Natural beauty and warmth that can’t be replicated by composites.
  • Cost: Typically more affordable upfront, especially for pressure-treated wood.
  • Maintenance: Requires regular upkeep, including staining, sealing, and cleaning.
  • Lifespan: Can last 10-20 years with proper care.

Composite Decking:

  • Appearance: Designed to mimic wood but with a more uniform look.
  • Cost: Higher initial investment but lower maintenance costs over time.
  • Maintenance: Virtually maintenance-free, with no need for staining or sealing.
  • Lifespan: Can last 25-30 years with minimal upkeep.

Trex vs. Wood Decking: 5 Reasons to Go Composite -

Wood Resistance and Durability

Wood decking has natural beauty but is vulnerable to weathering, which requires maintenance to maintain its look and integrity. On the other hand, wood-plastic composite boards offer better resistance to moisture, rot, and insects. This makes composite decking ideal for areas with extreme weather conditions.

  • Weather Resistance: Composite decking is highly resistant to moisture and doesn’t warp or crack as easily as wood.
  • Wood Resistance: Natural woods like cedar and redwood have inherent resistance to rot and insects, but still require regular maintenance to maintain these properties.

Cost Comparison: Wood Deck vs. Composite Deck

While wood decks tend to have a lower upfront cost, they require ongoing maintenance which can add up over time. Composite decks, though more expensive initially, require little to no maintenance, making them more cost-effective in the long run.

  • Wood Decking: $15 – $35 per square foot, plus maintenance costs.
  • Composite Decking: $30 – $45 per square foot, but with minimal upkeep.

Choosing the Right Material for Extreme Conditions

For those living in areas with extreme weather conditions, the choice between wood and composite can come down to durability. Wood-plastic composite decking is highly resistant to moisture, making it a better choice for wet climates or areas with heavy snowfall. Wood decks can be treated and sealed to improve their weather resistance, but still require more upkeep.

Conclusion

Both wood and composite decks offer distinct advantages, and the choice between the two depends on your priorities. For homeowners who love the natural beauty of wood and don’t mind regular maintenance, a wood deck may be the way to go. For those seeking low-maintenance and long-term durability, composite decking is an excellent option. By understanding the differences in wood resistance, cost, and wood deck vs. composite deck performance, you can select the best material for your outdoor space.

The 4 Best Deck Material Options We Recommend to Clients

The 4 Best Deck Material Options We Recommend to Clients

Choosing the right deck material is crucial for achieving both aesthetic appeal and long-lasting durability. With numerous options available, selecting the best material can be overwhelming. To simplify your decision-making process, we recommend four top deck materials that have consistently impressed our clients: Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, and Fiberon. Each offers unique benefits and features, making them excellent choices for any decking project. Here’s an in-depth look at why these materials stand out.

1. Trex Decking

Overview: Trex is a leading name in composite decking, known for its high quality and innovative design. Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, Trex provides a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood.

Key Features:

  • Durability: Trex decking is highly resistant to stains, scratches, and fading. It won’t splinter or warp, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
  • Low Maintenance: Unlike wood, Trex doesn’t require regular staining or sealing. A simple soap-and-water wash keeps it looking new.
  • Eco-Friendly: Trex uses recycled materials, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting and resistant to weathering
  • Wide range of colors and finishes
  • Environmentally friendly

Enhance your backyard with a mixed deck that blends natural wood with modern composite elements for a unique and low-maintenance solution.

2. TimberTech Decking

Overview: TimberTech is another top player in the composite decking market, offering a range of products that combine durability with stylish designs. TimberTech decks are made from a blend of wood fibers and polymers, ensuring strength and longevity.

Key Features:

  • Advanced Technology: TimberTech’s products feature technology that enhances durability and resistance to fading, scratching, and mold.
  • Variety of Styles: TimberTech offers a broad selection of colors and textures, including options that closely mimic the look of natural wood.
  • Low Maintenance: TimberTech decks are designed to be easy to clean and maintain, requiring only occasional washing.

Pros:

  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Wide variety of colors and textures
  • Low maintenance requirements

3. Deckorators Decking

Overview: Deckorators is known for its innovative decking solutions, including their signature mineral-based composite decking. Deckorators combines style with strength, offering a range of options that cater to various design preferences.

Key Features:

  • Mineral-Based Composite: Deckorators uses a unique mineral-based composite that enhances durability and resists fading, staining, and scratching.
  • Design Options: The brand offers a variety of colors and styles, including decking with a natural wood grain appearance.
  • Enhanced Performance: Deckorators decking features a strong, low-maintenance surface that is resistant to moisture and mold.

Pros:

  • Highly durable and resistant to environmental factors
  • Wide range of design options
  • Low maintenance

4. Fiberon Decking

Overview: Fiberon is a well-established name in the decking industry, offering a variety of composite decking products known for their quality and performance. Fiberon decking is made from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastic, providing a sustainable and durable option.

Key Features:

  • Durability: Fiberon decking is designed to withstand the elements, with resistance to fading, staining, and scratching.
  • Versatility: The brand offers a range of colors and styles, including options that resemble natural wood.
  • Low Maintenance: Fiberon decking requires minimal upkeep, making it a practical choice for busy homeowners.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting and resistant to environmental damage
  • Various styles and colors available
  • Low maintenance

Create a versatile outdoor space with a mixed deck, combining wood and composite materials for a stylish and durable design.

Conclusion

When it comes to selecting the best deck material, Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators, and Fiberon stand out for their durability, low maintenance, and stylish designs. Each brand offers unique features that cater to different preferences and needs, making them excellent choices for any decking project. By considering your budget, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance requirements, you can choose the material that best fits your outdoor living space. Investing in high-quality decking will ensure that your deck remains beautiful and functional for years to come.

Check Out This Blog!

Exploring the Fiberon Good Life and Sanctuary Collections for Your Decking Needs

Exploring the Fiberon Good Life and Sanctuary Collections for Your Decking Needs

Introduction
Fiberon has become a leading name in the decking industry, offering a wide range of collections that cater to different tastes, styles, and budgets. The Good Life Weekender Collection, Good Life Escapes Collection, and Sanctuary Collection are just a few examples of how Fiberon blends durability with beauty. In this blog, we’ll explore the features and benefits of these collections, along with their colors and design options.

Good Life Weekended and Escapes Collections
The Good Life Weekender Collection and Good Life Escapes Collection offer affordable yet durable decking options that are perfect for homeowners who want low-maintenance materials. These collections are ideal for those looking to enjoy their deck without the hassle of constant upkeep. With color options like Natural Reef, Russet Dune, and Sandy Pier, these boards are designed to withstand the elements while providing stunning aesthetics.

The Good Life PE Decking is made from premium PE composite deck boards that resist stains and fading, offering a long-lasting and eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood. With easy installation and minimal maintenance, the Good Life PE Decking line is ideal for both weekend DIY enthusiasts and professional installers.

 

Sanctuary Collection: Beauty and Durability
The Sanctuary PE Decking collection brings a sense of luxury to your outdoor space. Known for its rich colors and textures, Sanctuary offers shades like Weathered Cliff, Shaded Cay, and Moonlit Cave that evoke the beauty of natural wood while providing the durability of PE composite decking. Whether you’re building a deck in a suburban backyard or a home in a wildland urban interface, the Sanctuary collection offers protection and performance in harsh environments.

The Sanctuary PE Decking is engineered for strength and designed for those who want a low-maintenance deck that can withstand years of outdoor fun. Like all Fiberon products, this collection is backed by a strong warranty, ensuring long-term satisfaction.

Conclusion
Choosing between the Good Life Weekender Collection, Good Life Escapes Collection, and Sanctuary PE Decking depends on your specific needs and preferences. With a variety of colors, textures, and durability levels, these Fiberon collections make it easy to find the perfect match for your home.

Click Here To Learn More About Fiberon PE & PVC Decking

Exploring Composite Decking: Benefits, Costs, and Aesthetics

Exploring Composite Decking: Benefits, Costs, and Aesthetics

Introduction
When considering building or upgrading a deck, one of the most important decisions homeowners face is choosing the right material. Among the various options available, composite decking has rapidly gained popularity, especially in areas like Omaha, where weather conditions can impact deck durability. From composite and wood decking options to the benefits and aesthetics of composite materials, this guide covers everything you need to know about composite decking.

Composite Deck Benefits
One of the primary reasons why composite decking has become a favorite for homeowners is the wide array of benefits it offers. Compared to traditional wood decks, composite decking is highly durable. Thanks to its blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking durability ensures a longer lifespan, making it a smart investment for any homeowner. Another significant advantage is composite deck longevity. Composite decks are designed to resist common issues such as rotting, warping, and cracking that often plague wood decks. With proper care, a composite deck can last for decades, giving homeowners peace of mind.

Additionally, composite deck maintenance is much easier and more cost-effective than maintaining a traditional wood deck. While wood decks require regular staining, sealing, and even sanding, composite decks only need an occasional cleaning to keep them looking great. The minimal composite decking maintenance helps homeowners save time and money in the long run.

Aesthetics of Composite Decking
Not only is composite decking functional, but it also boasts impressive aesthetic appeal. Composite decking aesthetics have come a long way, and today, homeowners have a wide variety of composite deck colors and composite deck color choices to choose from. Whether you prefer the look of rich, earthy tones or sleek, modern grays, you can find a composite decking material that perfectly complements your home’s style.

What makes composite deck aesthetics even more appealing is that these colors don’t fade as quickly as traditional wood. The high-quality materials used in composite decks are engineered to withstand UV rays and harsh weather, so the composite decking colors remain vibrant for years. To enhance the look further, many homeowners opt for composite deck lighting, which creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings.

Cost and Installation
When it comes to cost, many homeowners are concerned that composite decking may be out of their budget. However, when you factor in the long-term savings from low maintenance and longevity, the composite decking cost becomes more reasonable. The composite vs. wood deck cost comparison reveals that while wood decks might be cheaper upfront, the ongoing costs of maintenance, repairs, and eventual replacement can add up quickly. Composite decking, on the other hand, requires less upkeep and lasts longer, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

If you’re ready to invest in composite decking, it’s important to understand the installation process. Many contractors in Omaha offer composite deck installation services, but it’s essential to get a composite deck consultation beforehand to discuss your project goals, budget, and design preferences. During this consultation, you can also explore various composite decking options, ensuring you choose the best material for your needs.

Conclusion
In conclusion, composite decking advantages go beyond durability and low maintenance. The vast array of composite deck aesthetics, combined with the ease of installation and cost-effectiveness, make it an excellent choice for Omaha homeowners. With options like composite deck lighting and the diverse range of composite decking colors, you can create a stunning outdoor space that will last for years.

Click Here For More on Composite Decking

Now Is the Time to Buy a Low-Maintenance Deck

You’ve wanted a deck for a long time, but something is holding you back.

You’ve been following the price of lumber throughout the pandemic and it isn’t looking pretty. It’s gone up and up and up some more. If you were forced to buy a wood deck now, it would have you biting your fingernails.

We have good news for you. The cost of composite decks has not matched the spike in cost compared to all-wood decks. In fact, now is the perfect time to invest in a low-maintenance deck that will last for decades.

Low-Maintenance Decks Aren’t Affected by the Price of Lumber

We build most of our decks with a composite material that’s part synthetic and part recycled wood. They’re beautiful, they’ll outlast your neighbor’s cedar porch, and they won’t give you splinters.

The boards don’t split or warp, and their price has stayed stable rather than soaring into the stratosphere like wood decks.

Environmentally Friendly Decks 

Even more, composite decking is the most environmentally friendly option on the market. The wooden component doesn’t require cutting any new trees, and the synthetic part is recycled, too. Unlike wood, composite materials don’t require staining or chemical treatment, so there’s no risk of contaminating the environment.

Of course, if you really must have lumber as part of your deck plan, you can always mix and match. We’ve built hundreds of lovely mixed decks–you can find our favorites here.

Beautiful Decks to Last a Lifetime

If you want our opinion, composite decks look so good that most people never notice the difference. And you won’t have to worry about screws and splinters snagging on your socks. In fact, you won’t have to worry at all. We call our decks low-maintenance for a reason. Many composite decks will last as many as 50 years.

Your grandkids will thank you.

So why wait? Contact us today, and together, we’ll develop a deck plan that’s right for you.

Now is a Great Time to Invest in Your Home with a Custom Deck

Since the beginning of 2020, people have been spending a lot of time at home. The entire pandemic experience has transitioned many Americans into permanent or at least partial work-from-home employees. More time at home and little ability to travel comfortably have led a lot of homeowners to put more resources into their homes. They’re making it a more comfortable place to relax and entertain while adding value at the same time. One of the most popular investments among Omaha area homeowners is a custom deck upgrade.

Types of Custom Decks

The two most common types of decks are wood and composite. The type of material you choose will directly affect the durability, maintenance requirements, and budget needed to build it.

Wood Decks

There used to be a time when redwood and cedar were your only options for building a week deck. Today, you have more choices with pressure-treated wood. A lot of people like natural wood because it’s durable and looks great. The downside is that it requires the most maintenance. You need to put a lot of time into cleaning and re-sealing it.

Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable, but a lot of people are wary of the toxic chemicals used to treat it. Redwood and cedar are beautiful options that are bug-resistant, but they’re softwoods and are easily damaged.

Composite Decks

Composite decking is a popular alternative to natural wood. It’s made from a blend of wood fibers and plastics. The composition makes it resistant to rotting and wear while closely resembling the look of natural wood. Most can’t notice the difference in appearance.

Composite decks come with nearly unlimited color and texture options. You can choose the color you want and never have to worry about painting, staining, or re-sealing it for the remainder of its life. The day-to-day and yearly maintenance is minimal.

Composite deck installations leave a clean and seamless look upon completion. Wood decks leave the hardware holding the boards together visible. The clips, deck screws, and fasteners are all hidden with composite decks.

Different Styles of Decks

Wraparound
This is a traditional style of deck and is often called a wraparound porch. Unlike a porch, though, your deck can have varying shapes and levels. The benefit of this style deck is that it gives you plenty of usable outdoor space and is easily accessed from more than one entry point in your home.

Multi-Tier
If your property has hills or isn’t perfectly level, then you have the perfect setup for a multi-tier deck. You’ll build one level that’s attached to your house and level with your exterior doors.
Then there are steps that lead up or down to another flat deck area. You could have multiple levels of different sizes to suit different uses.

Attached
An attached deck is one that’s built directly off of your home. You’ll be able to open the exterior door of your home and step directly onto your deck. They’re typically a square, rectangle, L, or U shape.

Detached
If you have a large backyard, you could build a deck that’s detached from your home. This is a floating deck level that’s accessed by a path or walkway. These decks are perfect for creating usable areas on your property that have poor drainage.

Omaha Custom Deck Builders

Want to find out more about how you can invest in your home with a custom deck? Give us a call today and schedule your deck build. If you’re not sure what you want, come by our showroom and see what we can offer in person. One of our deck-building experts can walk you through all your options and give you a free quote.

Why Avoid Hardwood Decking?

If you’re thinking about building a custom deck in Omaha, you’re going to be faced with a choice – hardwood decking or composite decking? In the past, hardwood decking materials were the only option, and they did a good job when properly maintained. But today’s technology has given deck buyers an alternative with composite decking, and with continual innovation over the years, it’s now far surpassed the benefits of hardwood decking in all categories.

Hardwood Vs. Composite Decking

Many homeowners choose hardwood decking because it sounds familiar and is easy to find. What they’re not aware of is the wood decking problems like splinters, staining, rot issues, hours of maintenance, and high cost. Homeowners who are not familiar with composite decking and all of the innovations it’s undergone since it first emerged over 30 years ago are afraid composite decking will not look as nice as wood. Let’s take an in-depth look and see how today’s composite decking compares to wood decking. 

How do they Look?

It’s true that early-generation composite decking looked artificial and plastic-like. But today’s composites are nearly indistinguishable from wood decks, and many argue much more beautiful. They have grain patterns, so no two boards are alike. They can mimic any hardwood on the market in appearance and do a lot more when it comes to getting the exact pattern, color, and finish.

Moisture Factor

One of the biggest problems with natural hardwood decking is that boards absorb water. Without frequent applications of stains, sealers, or paint, wood decking will warp, splinter, crack, and rot. Composite decking, on the other hand, is fully moisture-resistant, eliminating the need for repeated sealing applications, and can be installed in high moisture conditions with no issues.

Maintenance

To extend the life of a wood deck, homeowners are tasked with regularly painting and staining to keep the deck sealed from moisture, as noted above. It’s a battle that continues for the lifespan of the entire deck. A composite deck only requires sweeping and an occasional wash to keep the boards looking new.

Insect Damage

Insects love natural hardwoods. Termites and other wood-loving insects can do a number on a natural hardwood deck and render it unusable or fill it with unsightly holes in little time. Composite decks are insect-proof – you’ll never have insect damage with a composite deck.

Final Breakdown  

  • Appearance – Hardwood timber fades over time. Composite has the beauty of natural wood with high-performance durability.
  • Moisture – Hardwood doesn’t hold up well with water lots of water contact. Composite can be installed with water contact and is moisture-proof.
  • Maintenance – Hardwood requires 16-32 hours of cleaning, painting, and staining per year. Composite requires 2-4 hours per year.
  • Durability – Hardwood decking is susceptible to rot, splintering, warping, and termite damage. Composite resists rot, warping, splintering, and termite damage.
  • Price – Hardwood decks have a lower initial cost, but it varies depending on wood species. Composite has a higher upfront cost, but a much longer lifetime.

Go Green with Trex Decking

The Trex brand name is a recognized leader among custom deck builders. What a lot of people don’t know is that Trex offers eco-friendly decking that’s made of 95% recycled products. After building custom decks in Omaha for 40 years, we’ve seen a lot of innovations in the deck materials industry, and we’re not surprised Trex is leading the pack with its green decking lineup. Trex offers consumers a truly environmentally responsible choice with their decks. Let’s take a closer look at why these decks are considered green.

Why a Trex Composite Deck is Considered Green

It’s all in the ingredients. A Trex composite deck is made of locally sourced reclaimed wood and recycled plastic. The wood used in Trex decking would otherwise end up in a landfill if it didn’t become a Trex high-performance composite deck. The plastic is sourced from some of the most common plastic waste like sandwich bags, dry cleaner bags, and grocery shopping bags. The average 500-square-foot composite Trex deck contains 140,000 recycled plastic bags! Trex is one of the largest plastic bag recyclers in the United States.

Trex Recycling Facts

In comparison with pressure-treated lumber over a 25-year period, the positive environmental impact of Trex decking is amazing.

  • 36% Fewer Greenhouse Emissions
  • 47% Fewer Toxic Air Pollutants
  • 84% Less Acidification
  • 80% Less Water Contamination
  • 53% Less Smog
  • 93% Less Ecological Toxicity

 The Trex Sustainable Supply Chain

Trex takes an active role in ensuring its supply vendors operate with ethical and responsible business practices. 95% of Trex suppliers are U.S.-based. Trex conducts supply chain assessments, including in-person reviews, operating facility tours, and works with suppliers to reduce the environmental impact across the supply chain.

The Trex Production Process

The Trex manufacturing process is just as green as its final product. Their processing method eliminates the use of smoke stacks. Nearly 100% of factory runoff and refuse is recycled back into the manufacturing line. Here’s an overview of the process of creating a Trex deck. 

  1. Sawdust and plastic film are purchased
  2. Plastic film is cleaned and ground into granules
  3. Plastic film and sawdust are combined and heated
  4. Mixture is mixed to a soft, pliable consistency
  5. Mixture is formed into boards using profile dies
  6. Boards are cooled and cut to length
  7. Boards are inspected by quality control for defects, strengths, and color accuracy
  8. Finished boards are wrapped and shipped    

Trex has never cut a single tree in the making of their high-performance composite decking!

Ready to Go Green in 2020?

 If you’ve been thinking about a custom deck for your home in 2020, you can’t go wrong with Trex. Not only are they leading the composite deck industry in sustainability, but they also make some of the most high-quality, long-lasting composite decking materials on the market. The customization from color, texture, and board size ensures you get a truly one-of-a-kind deck that will last for years – if not decades.