Trex Decking for Backyard Gathering Spaces in Bismarck, ND

Choosing Your Trex Collection and Color

Trex offers several collections, each with distinct aesthetics and features. For a gathering space, consider how the deck's appearance will complement your home and existing landscaping. The Enhance® Naturals collection, for example, provides multi-tonal colors inspired by nature, offering a more organic look. Colors like "Toasted Sand" or "Coastal Bluff" can create a warm, inviting atmosphere. If you prefer a more refined, flagship aesthetic, the Transcend® Tropical collection offers vibrant colors and a luxurious finish, with options such as "Havana Gold" or "Island Mist" that evoke a resort-like feel. Each line shares a core of recycled materials and a protective shell.

When selecting a color, remember that digital swatches are a starting point. It's advisable to confirm physical sample availability to see how colors appear in natural light and against your home's exterior. The protective shell on Trex boards is designed to lock in pigment, helping the color remain consistent over time.

Planning Dimensions and Layout for Gatherings

A successful gathering space needs adequate room for furniture, movement, and distinct activity zones. Start by sketching your desired layout, considering areas for dining, lounging, or perhaps a fire pit. Trex boards are typically available in 1x5.5-inch profiles and lengths of 12, 16, and 20 feet. Planning with these standard lengths can minimize cuts and waste.

Consider incorporating different levels or sections to define areas. A slightly raised platform for a lounge area can visually separate it from a dining space, even on a single deck. When laying out the boards, decide between a straight lay or a diagonal pattern. Diagonal layouts can add visual interest but may require more cuts and material. Picture-frame borders can also enhance the finished look and provide a clean edge, especially when transitioning to other outdoor elements.

Fascia and Edge Finishes

Fascia boards are essential for a polished look, covering the rim joists and creating a finished edge for your deck. Trex offers matching fascia boards for its decking lines, ensuring a cohesive appearance. These are typically thinner than deck boards but designed to coordinate in color and texture. When planning your order, ensure you account for all exposed edges, including stairs if applicable.

Properly installed fascia contributes to the overall aesthetic and helps protect the deck's substructure. It's a detail that significantly impacts the perceived quality of the finished gathering space. Coordinate your fascia order with your chosen decking line and color to avoid discrepancies.

Fastening Systems for a Smooth Surface

For a gathering space where people will walk barefoot, a hidden fastening system can provide a smooth, splinter-free surface. Trex boards are compatible with hidden clips that fit into the grooved edges of the boards, securing them to the joists without visible screws on the deck surface. This also contributes to the "barefoot safe" advantage of Trex decking.

Alternatively, face screws can be used, particularly for perimeter boards or stairs where hidden fasteners may not be suitable. If face screws are chosen, ensure they are color-matched and installed correctly to minimize their visual impact. Always refer to the specific product guide for recommended fastening methods and spacing to maintain structural integrity and warranty validity.

Maintenance for Long-Term Enjoyment

One of the key advantages of Trex decking is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike traditional wood, it does not require oiling, staining, or sealing. A simple soap-and-water wash is generally sufficient to keep the deck clean and maintain its appearance. This means less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your gathering space.

Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of dirt, pollen, and other debris, which can otherwise diminish the deck's aesthetic. For specific spills, prompt cleaning is recommended. Always consult the manufacturer's guidelines for compatible cleaning products and methods to ensure the warranty remains valid. This minimal upkeep allows the deck to remain a ready-to-use space for impromptu get-togethers.

Before you order

• Select a Trex collection (Enhance, Select, Transcend) that aligns with your desired aesthetic and performance needs.
• Choose a color after reviewing physical samples to ensure it complements your home and outdoor environment.
• Map out your gathering space, defining zones for dining, lounging, and traffic flow.
• Calculate required board lengths (12, 16, 20 ft) to minimize waste and seam visibility.
• Determine the need for fascia boards for all exposed rim joists and stair risers.
• Select between hidden fastening systems for a smooth surface or color-matched face screws.
• Plan for general cleaning with soap and water as the primary maintenance method.
• Consider complementary products like railing systems or outdoor lighting to enhance the gathering space.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

This is a planning guide for projects in Bismarck, ND. Ask our team to confirm availability, delivery to your ZIP code and which branch can support your order.

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