Is it time to build a deck in the backyard? An outdoor deck is a great way to turn your backyard into an oasis. Build a deck that looks out over the backyard, where you can set up your chairs and shade structure and watch the kids as they run through the sprinklers and jump on the trampoline. During the cool fall nights, you can pull out blankets and watch the sun go down from your back deck.
A deck is a beautiful addition to your home if you do it right. The last thing you want is a lovely new deck where the stain rubs away and the wood starts to splinter. Or you choose your favorite paint color, and you can’t get it to stay on the wood for longer than a few months of normal wear and tear.
Choose a long-lasting deck that requires little to no maintenance by choosing composite decking materials. That way, you can enjoy your investment without worrying about constant maintenance.
What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is a mixture of materials that form a durable, long-lasting deck. Composite deck materials offer splinter-free deck surfaces that stay shiny and new for years as an alternative to wood that warps, peels, and rots.
If you look into Trex vs. Azek decking, you will find some differences between the two materials. Both are reliable composite materials that perform better than wood decking. You won’t have to paint or replace holes in the deck as the years roll by. The composite materials offer peace of mind for each homeowner investing in an outdoor deck for their homes.
What Is Trex Decking?
Trex board is a composite deck that is made from recycled plastic and wood pieces. This durable material has warranty coverage of 25 years, which means it will not chip or fade over decades on your property.
When it comes to Trex vs. Azeck decking, Trex is significantly less pricey than Azek. The materials are less expensive and can be equally durable. Let’s look at all of the Trex options you can find with decking materials, including Trex Transcend, Trex Select, and Trex Enhance.
Trex Transcend®
Transcend is the highest-rated composite decking that Trex offers. With mold-resistant, fade-resistant, and scratch-resistant properties, the deck materials look vibrant and new after years of daily use. In addition, the sustainable materials are made from 95% recycled plastic and reclaimed wood, which will contribute to the environment as it saves those products from going into landfills.
The Transcend collection offers stunning color options like Havana Gold, Island Mist, and Tiki Torch. You can choose the best color that fits your style and home décor, and you can expect that color to last through sun and weather exposure.
Trex Select®
Select is a better option for composite decking, coming in 5 versatile color options. It holds up against mold and stains better than the traditional composite deck materials. In addition, the deck has a high-performance shell layer that protects the materials from any penetrating damage.
Trex Select is also a sustainable material and is backed by a 25-year warranty. You will be guaranteed a beautiful deck when you go with Trex Select.
Trex Enhance®
Trex Enhance is the basic offering for composite deck materials from Trex. With Enhance, you will have worry-free decking that takes no maintenance and has a 25-year warranty. In addition, it comes in seven colors that are sure to make your deck shine.
Enhance is the collection to choose from if you are on a budget. You can still get quality decking at an affordable price.
Take a look at all three levels of Trex decking to find out which one is best for you. Then continue reading to find out more about Trex vs. Azek decking comparisons.
What Is Azek Decking?
Azek is decking that is sturdy and indestructible. While Trex is made from recyclable materials, Azek,, is made from PVC which is safe when handled correctly. However, if you are cutting and handling PVC, the dust may be hazardous in large quantities.
Let’s look at some pros and cons of Azek decking.
Pros
This long-lasting decking material is an excellent choice for a deck that you have wanted to have on your property for decades. PVC has been used in pipes and other scenarios in which they suffer daily wear and tear and have proven to hold up like they’re brand new. Look to these pros of Azek decking:
- Low Maintenance: It is so easy to take care of Azek decking. If you have a spill, simply spray the surface down with water to clean it up. If you have a storm that leaves mud on the deck, clean it off with water again. You do not have to paint a PVC deck. It will remain in good condition with little upkeep.
- Lightweight: The material is lightweight, yet resistant to impact. The light material does not indicate that it is flimsy. You can easily install the deck with these advantages while knowing it will be durable once assembled.
- Can Be Reused: If you decide to remove the deck, you can donate the deck materials back to the company for reuse instead of throwing the slats into a landfill. This sturdy material will look just as new in the next house.
- Does Not Peel: While wood can splinter and peel away with time, Azek decking does not suffer from that effect even after years of daily use. Enjoy a decking material that does not break down with normal weathering.
- Comfortable to Walk On: Azek decking is smooth on your feet. Walk across barefoot or grill without shoes, and you will have no problems.
- Durable: This PVC decking material is hard to dents or scratches, The materials can withstand high levels of impact.
- Holds Up in Extreme Weather: Hail, ice, snow, and extreme heat all have nothing on Azek decking. You won’t need to fix any chipped slats or repaint after a heavy rain that would soak into a wood deck.
- Insect-Resistant: While insects love a wood deck, they do not attach themselves to a PVC deck. You don’t have to worry about insect infestations that ruin your whole deck. Invest in a high-quality material that is worry-free when it comes to bugs and animals.
When you see all of the advantages of an Azek deck spelled out for you, it may cause you to pause when deciding between Trex vs. Azek decking. Ponder upon these pros as you look at the negatives.
Cons
Any decking material will have negative aspects to it. The important thing about making a pro and con list are to see if the pros outweigh the cons. And with Azek decking, there are certainly more pros than cons. Take a look at what the downsides to PVC decking are:
- Higher Cost: Azek can be higher in cost than other competitive decking options. When it comes to Trex vs. Azek decking, Trex may be less expensive than Azek offerings. The cost can be worth it, adding value to your home and increasing your quality of life. Take particular thought to consider the price without making it the make or break factor.
- Gets Hot Quickly: The PVC materials can heat up quickly in the sun, making it hotter to walk on in the summer months. Find the shady spots or wear shoes on the deck to avoid this becoming a big issue.
Now that you know all you need to know about Azek, you can make an informed decision on Trex vs. Azek decking. When you are armed with knowledge, you will be able to ask a trusted installer for their recommendations on which decking material to choose. When you ask informed questions, you will get the answers you are seeking.
Other TimberTech Brands
TimberTech Azek is a trusted brand for decking. You may also know that TimberTech offers other options for decking. We can break down each one to see if a different line of decking materials might be better for you.
TimberTech PRO®
This premium decking comes with a 30-year warranty. It is capped on all 4 sides, going into the grooves to be sure that no rough edges are exposed. These protected grooves provide an even stronger barrier from mold and mildew.
The installation does not require any sanding, sealing, or hard labor. The pieces are scratch and dent-resistant and have been tested through all kinds of wear and tear with excellent ratings. With TimberTech Pro, you have a fantastic option for building a deck that will provide you with the backyard oasis of your dreams.
TimberTech EDGE®
The EDGE collection offers a painted wood look with a straight grain pattern in each piece. In addition, these durable decking materials boast moisture resistance, stain resistance, easy installation, and other premium features.
On top of all of that, you have the look of a wood grain deck that will add just the touch of elegance you need for your outdoor living space. So take your design to the next level with TimberTech EDGE.
When you thoughtfully choose your deck material, you will walk out onto a deck that makes you happy every day. Invest in your house by investing in your outdoor deck. You will never regret taking the plunge on something that will add to your quality of life. And then, when it comes time to sell your home, you will add value to your home with your outdoor deck addition.
Which Is Better, Trex or Azek?
You may wonder if there is one clear winner with Trex vs. Azek decking. The answer is, that they both will provide you with a composite deck option that will stay beautiful, feel great under your feet, and be the escape that you dream of outdoors watching the sun go down.
Azek boards may have a slight advantage in staying cooler in the heat. But the truth is, on a hot summer day, you will be tiptoeing across both decking boards to run to the shade. Trex decking, compared to Azek, can heat up a little quicker with its recycled plastic material.
Both Trex vs. Azek decking will last a very long time without denting, warping, breaking, or fading. You do not have to paint a composite deck. Composite decking technology has come a long way in the last decade. So if you have seen a composite deck that was built 10 years ago, you can expect even better results. You cannot go wrong in choosing between Trex vs. Azek decking.
Let Magnolia Install Your Dream Deck
We want to help you decide between Trex vs. Azek decking for your home. Our Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is experienced in installing decks that last for decades. Transform your backyard with a new deck installed by a trusted home remodeling crew. Our team pays attention to details and provides top-quality work that you will admire for years to come.
The goal of our Magnolia Home Remodeling Group is to build long-lasting relationships with each client that we serve. When you think of your next home improvement project, we want you to consider how much you loved our work in the past and call us again. As we strive to build relationships, we have hundreds of homeowners across New Jersey who have our number on speed dial. Let us be that trusted home remodeling team for you. Give us a call today to get started on your first home improvement project.
