Choosing Your Trex Collection for Style and Performance
Trex offers several decking collections, each with distinct aesthetics and performance characteristics. Your choice will influence the overall look and feel of your backyard gathering space.
The Trex Enhance® Basics and Enhance® Naturals lines provide an entry point with traditional and authentic wood-grain appearances, respectively. Enhance Basics comes in colors like Clam Shell, Beach Dune, and Saddle. Enhance Naturals offers multi-tonal options such as Foggy Wharf and Rocky Harbor. Both 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 and nature-inspired colors like Pebble Grey and Winchester Grey. The flagship Trex Transcend® collection, available in Earth Tones (Gravel Path, Rope Swing) and Tropical (Havana Gold, Island Mist), offers elevated aesthetics and the highest level of performance, also with a three-side protective shell.
Consider the architectural style of your home and the desired ambiance for your gathering space. A more rustic setting might benefit from the multi-tonal hues of Enhance Naturals, while a contemporary design might lean towards the sophisticated colors of Transcend Tropical.
All Trex lines share a recycled core and a low-maintenance shell, meaning they resist splintering and typically require only a soap-and-water wash for maintenance.
Dimensioning Your Gathering Space: A Hypothetical Example
Accurate dimensioning is critical for both functionality and material ordering. Let's consider a hypothetical backyard gathering space in Pierre, SD, designed for both dining and a relaxed lounge area.
Imagine a deck that is 16 feet wide and 20 feet long, creating a total area of 320 square feet. This space could comfortably accommodate a dining table for six to eight people (requiring approximately 10x10 feet) and a separate lounge area with seating and a fire pit (another 10x10 feet). Trex boards are available in 12, 16, and 20-foot lengths, which is convenient for minimizing seams in our 16x20-foot example.
For a 16-foot width, you could use full 16-foot boards, eliminating butt joints across the width. For the 20-foot length, you would use full 20-foot boards. Trex boards typically come in 1-inch by 5.5-inch profiles. To cover the 16-foot (192-inch) width, you would need approximately 192 inches / 5.5 inches per board = 34.9 boards. Rounding up, you would need 35 boards for the width. Since the length is 20 feet, and boards are available in 20-foot lengths, you would need 35 boards, each 20 feet long. This totals 700 linear feet of decking.
This calculation assumes a straightforward linear installation. More complex layouts, such as diagonal patterns or picture-frame borders, will require different calculations and potentially more material due to increased cuts and waste. Always factor in a waste percentage, typically 10-15%, for cuts and potential errors.
Coordinating Fascia and Edge Finishes
Fascia boards are essential for a finished look, concealing the deck's substructure and providing a clean edge. Trex offers matching fascia boards for their decking collections, ensuring a cohesive appearance.
For our hypothetical 16x20-foot deck, the perimeter would be (16 + 20) x 2 = 72 linear feet. You would need to select fascia boards that match your chosen deck color and collection. Fascia boards typically come in lengths similar to deck boards, allowing for minimal seams around the perimeter.
When planning, consider how the fascia will meet any existing structures, such as house siding or patio pavers. A clean, consistent installation of fascia significantly enhances the perceived quality of the entire deck. Ensure you account for any stair risers or other vertical elements that will also require fascia or trim for a complete look.
Fastening Systems: Hidden Clips vs. Face Screws
Trex decking can be installed using either hidden fastening systems or face screws, each offering distinct advantages.
Hidden clips are designed to create a smooth, fastener-free deck surface, enhancing the aesthetic of your gathering space. Trex boards are available with a grooved profile specifically for use with hidden clips. This method provides a clean look and can be more comfortable underfoot, as there are no visible screws to snag or catch.
Face screwing involves driving screws directly through the top surface of the deck board into the joists below. While visible, face screws offer a robust and secure attachment. If using face screws, it's recommended to pre-drill and countersink to ensure a flush finish and prevent splitting. Color-matched screws are often available to minimize their visual impact.
The choice between hidden fasteners and face screws often comes down to aesthetic preference and installation method. Hidden fasteners are a popular choice for a premium, uninterrupted deck surface, while face screws offer a straightforward and secure installation. Always consult the manufacturer's specific installation guidelines for proper spacing and fastening techniques for your chosen Trex product.
General Maintenance for Your Trex Deck in Pierre, SD
One of the primary benefits of Trex composite decking is its low maintenance requirements compared to traditional wood decks. Trex is designed to resist staining, fading, and mold, making it a practical choice for the varying conditions in Pierre, SD.
Regular cleaning with soap and water is typically sufficient to keep your Trex deck looking its best. This helps remove dirt, pollen, and other surface debris. For more stubborn stains, Trex recommends specific cleaning products; always check their guidelines before applying any harsh chemicals.
Unlike wood, Trex decking does not require sanding, staining, or sealing, which significantly reduces the ongoing effort and cost of ownership. This low-maintenance aspect allows you to spend more time enjoying your backyard gathering space and less time on upkeep.
For areas with heavy snowfall, ensure proper snow removal techniques are used to avoid damaging the deck surface. While Trex is durable, using plastic shovels or brushes is generally recommended over metal ones to prevent scratching. Good ventilation beneath the deck is also important to prevent moisture buildup, especially after snowmelt or heavy rains.
Before you order
- Determine the desired size and layout of your gathering space.
- Select a Trex collection (Enhance, Select, or Transcend) that matches your aesthetic and performance needs.
- Choose a color that complements your home and landscape.
- Decide between grooved boards for hidden fasteners or square-edge boards for face screws.
- Calculate the required number of deck boards, accounting for length and width.
- Estimate the linear footage of matching fascia boards needed for the perimeter and stairs.
- Consider any special design elements like picture-frame borders or diagonal layouts.
- Factor in a waste percentage for cuts and potential adjustments.
- Review manufacturer installation guidelines for proper spacing and fastening.
- Plan for general cleaning and maintenance routines.
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 Pierre, SD. 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 collections?
The main differences between Trex collections like Enhance, Select, and Transcend lie in their aesthetic finishes, color palettes, and performance features. All Trex decking is made from 95% recycled materials and features a protective shell, offering low maintenance. Transcend typically offers the most varied and sophisticated finishes, while Enhance and Select provide excellent performance with more traditional looks.
Can I install Trex decking over an existing deck frame?
It may be possible to install Trex decking over an existing deck frame, but a thorough inspection of the existing substructure is crucial. The frame must be in sound condition, properly spaced, and meet all local building codes and Trex installation requirements. Any rotten, damaged, or improperly spaced joists would need to be repaired or replaced before installing new decking. It is recommended to consult a professional to assess the suitability of your existing frame.
How do I clean my Trex deck?
Trex decking is designed for low maintenance. Typically, a simple cleaning with soap and water using a soft-bristle brush is sufficient to remove dirt and debris. For more persistent stains, specific composite deck cleaners recommended by Trex can be used. Avoid using harsh chemicals, pressure washers above recommended settings, or metal shovels, as these can potentially damage the deck surface. Always refer to the official Trex cleaning guidelines for detailed instructions to maintain your warranty.
Ready to Plan Your Trex Decking Project in Pierre, SD?
Request a material quote today! Provide your project dimensions, desired Trex profile (e.g., Transcend Tropical, grooved), and your ZIP code to confirm current availability and service options for your backyard gathering space.
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