Choosing Your Trex Decking Collection
Trex offers several decking collections, each with distinct aesthetics and performance characteristics. Your choice will influence the overall look and feel of your gathering space.
The Trex Enhance® lines, including Basics and Naturals, provide an entry point into composite decking. Enhance Basics comes in traditional colors like Clam Shell, Beach Dune, and Saddle. Enhance Naturals offers a more authentic wood-grain appearance with multi-tonal colors such as Foggy Wharf, Rocky Harbor, Toasted Sand, and Coastal Bluff. Both Enhance lines are capped on three sides and made from 95% recycled material.
For a mid-range option, Trex Select® Earth Tones features hallmark high-performance shell technology in nature-inspired colors like Pebble Grey, Winchester Grey, Saddle, Woodland Brown, and Madeira. This line also uses 95% recycled material and is capped on three sides.
The flagship Trex Transcend® lines, Earth Tones and Tropical, offer elevated aesthetics and a high level of performance. Transcend Earth Tones includes colors such as Gravel Path, Rope Swing, and Vintage Lantern. Transcend Tropical features vibrant colors like Havana Gold, Island Mist, Tiki Torch, Spiced Rum, and Lava Rock. Both Transcend lines are characterized by their unyielding, three-side shell protection, ensuring color retention and durability. All Trex lines share a recycled core and low-maintenance shell. What varies is the finish depth, color range, and warranty terms.
Consider the architectural style of your home and the existing landscape when selecting a collection and color. Lighter colors can make a space feel larger and cooler, while darker tones can add a sense of warmth and sophistication.
Coordinating Dimensions and Layout
Effective planning of your deck's dimensions and layout is crucial for a functional gathering space. Trex decking boards are available in 1x5.5-inch profiles and lengths of 12, 16, and 20 feet, in both grooved and square-edge options. This variety allows for flexible design, whether you prefer a straightforward linear pattern or a more intricate diagonal layout with picture-frame borders.
When designing a gathering space, think about zones: a dining area, a lounge area, and perhaps a grilling station. Measure these areas carefully to determine the optimal board lengths and minimize waste. For example, a 16-foot board might be ideal for a long dining area, while shorter sections could be used for transitions or smaller lounge spaces. Account for board spacing according to manufacturer guidelines to allow for proper drainage and thermal expansion.
For a worked example, imagine a 12-foot by 20-foot rectangular deck for a gathering space. If the boards were laid parallel to the 12-foot dimension, you would need 20-foot / 5.5-inch = approximately 44 boards. This calculation helps illustrate how board orientation impacts material needs and potential cuts. Always factor in extra for cuts and potential mistakes.
Fascia and Edge Finishes
Fascia boards provide a finished look to the edges of your deck, concealing the substructure and creating a clean aesthetic. Trex offers matching fascia boards for its decking lines, ensuring a cohesive appearance. These are typically available in sizes designed to cover the rim joists and stair stringers.
The choice of fascia color can either match the deck boards for a seamless look or contrast for a defined border. For example, if you choose a Trex Transcend Tropical in Lava Rock for your deck surface, you might opt for a matching Lava Rock fascia or a complementary color from the Earth Tones collection to create visual interest. Pay attention to the thickness and profile of the fascia to ensure it aligns with your design preferences and provides adequate coverage for the subframe.
Fastening Systems for Trex Decking
Trex decking can be installed using either hidden fastening systems or face screws. Hidden fasteners create a smooth, blemish-free surface, which is often preferred for gathering spaces where aesthetics and barefoot comfort are priorities. These clips typically fit into the grooved edges of the boards and secure them to the joists from below.
Face-fastening involves screwing directly through the face of the board into the joist. While visible, face screws can offer a secure attachment. If opting for face-fastening, ensure you use composite-specific screws that are designed to minimize mushrooming and match the deck board color for a less conspicuous finish. Always follow the manufacturer's specific instructions for fastener type, spacing, and installation to maintain the warranty and ensure structural integrity.
Maintenance Considerations for Longevity
One of the key advantages of Trex composite decking is its low maintenance. Unlike traditional wood decks that require regular staining or sealing, Trex decks only need a soap-and-water wash to maintain their appearance and warranty validity. This makes it an ideal choice for busy gathering spaces where minimizing upkeep is a priority.
For Milwaukee's climate, which includes cold winters and humid summers, the resistance of Trex decking to moisture and rot is a significant benefit. Its protective shell locks in pigment, helping the color stay vibrant over time, even with exposure to sun and seasonal changes. Regular cleaning helps prevent the build-up of dirt, pollen, and mildew, which can be common in outdoor environments.
Before you order
- Determine the primary activities and zones for your gathering space (dining, lounging, grilling).
- Select a Trex decking collection (Enhance, Select, or Transcend) based on desired aesthetic, finish depth, and color range.
- Choose a color that complements your home's exterior and landscaping. Consider physical samples to confirm appearance.
- Plan the deck dimensions and board layout, accounting for available Trex board lengths (12, 16, 20 ft) to optimize material use.
- Decide on fascia board color and profile to finish the deck edges and conceal the substructure.
- Choose between hidden fasteners for a smooth surface or face screws, considering appearance and installation method.
- Confirm proper board spacing and ventilation beneath the deck for optimal performance and longevity.
- Review manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to ensure the warranty remains valid.
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 Milwaukee, WI. Ask our team to confirm availability, delivery to your ZIP code and which branch can support your order.
Questions to help you decide
What are the primary differences between Trex decking lines?
All Trex lines share a core made from 95% recycled materials and a low-maintenance protective shell. The main differences lie in the finish depth, the range of available colors, and specific warranty terms. Enhance is an entry-level option, Select is mid-range with high-performance shell technology, and Transcend is the flagship line offering elevated aesthetics and the highest level of performance with three-sided capping.
How do I clean my Trex deck?
Trex decking is designed for low maintenance. Typically, a simple soap-and-water wash is sufficient to clean the deck and maintain its appearance. It is important to avoid abrasive cleaners or high-pressure washers, which could potentially damage the surface. Always refer to the specific cleaning instructions provided by Trex for your chosen collection.
Can Trex decking be installed in a cold climate like Milwaukee?
Yes, Trex composite decking is engineered to perform in various climates. Its composition makes it resistant to moisture, rot, and insects, which are important considerations for regions with significant seasonal changes like Milwaukee. The protective shell helps the color and finish resist fading and staining, even with exposure to winter conditions. Proper installation, including adequate ventilation, is crucial for performance in any climate.
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