How Much Does Trex Decking Cost?
If you’re considering building a new deck or replacing an old one, you’ve probably heard of Trex decking. Trex is one of the most known brands of composite decking. But how much does Trex decking actually cost? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the factors that affect Trex decking prices, compare costs to other decking options, and provide tips for saving money on your Trex deck project.
What is Trex Decking?
Trex is a brand of composite decking, which means it’s made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibers. This combination creates a material that looks and feels like natural wood, but with added resistance to weather, insects, and decay. Trex decking is designed to be low-maintenance, requiring no sanding, staining, or sealing like traditional wood decks. It’s also available in a wide variety of colors and finishes to complement any home style.
Factors That Affect Trex Decking Cost
The total cost of your Trex decking project will depend on several key factors:
Size of Deck: The larger the deck, the more materials you’ll need, which will increase the overall cost. Trex decking is typically sold by the linear foot, so the total square footage of your deck will be a major determining factor in the final price.
Trex Product Line: Trex offers several different product lines at varying price points. The most basic Trex line, Trex Enhance, is the most affordable, while the high-end Trex Transcend line offers additional selections and finishes at a higher cost.
Labor Costs: If you plan to hire a professional contractor to build your Trex deck, labor costs will make up a significant portion of the total project budget. Labor costs can vary widely depending on your complexity of the deck design, and the experience level of the contractor.
Site Preparation: Before your Trex deck can be installed, the site may need to be prepared by removing an old deck, grading the yard, and pouring concrete footings. These site prep tasks will add to the overall project cost.
Additional Features: The cost of your Trex deck will also be affected by any additional features or accessories you choose to include, such as railings, stairs, lighting, or built-in seating. These add-ons can significantly increase the total price of the project.
Average Trex Decking Costs
So, how much does Trex decking actually cost? The answer can vary widely depending on the factors mentioned above, but here are some general price ranges to give you a ballpark idea:
- Basic Trex Deck (Trex Enhance): $15 to $20 per square foot
- Mid-Range Trex Deck (Trex Select): $20 to $30 per square foot
- High-End Trex Deck (Trex Transcend): $30 to $40 per square foot
Keep in mind that these prices are for the Trex decking materials only, and do not include the cost of labor, substructure materials, or any additional features.
For a more concrete example, let’s say you want to build a 12×16 foot (192 square foot) deck using mid-range Trex Select decking. The decking materials alone would cost between $3,840 and $5,760 based on the price range of $20 to $30 per square foot. Labor and other materials would be added to that cost for the total project price.
Trex Decking Cost Compared to Other Materials
To put the cost of Trex decking into perspective, it’s helpful to compare it to other common decking materials. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Pressure-Treated Wood: $10 to $15 per square foot
Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable decking option, but it requires more maintenance than Trex and may not last as long.
Natural Hardwoods: $30 to $50 per square foot
Hardwoods like Ipe or Mahogany offer a high-end look, but are more expensive than Trex and require regular maintenance to prevent weathering.
PVC Decking: $30 to $50 per square foot
PVC decking is another low-maintenance option, but it tends to be more expensive than Trex and may have a more artificial appearance.
As you can see, Trex decking falls somewhere in the middle of the price spectrum for decking materials. It’s more expensive than pressure-treated wood, but less expensive than high-end hardwoods or PVC.
Tips for Saving Money on Trex Decking
If you’re looking to save money on your Trex decking project, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Choose a lower-priced Trex product line: If you’re on a tight budget, consider going with Enhance instead of the premium Transcend line.
Opt for a simple deck design: Complex deck designs with multiple levels or curves will be more expensive than a simple, rectangular deck.
Build in the off-season: Contractors may offer lower prices on labor during the slower winter months, so consider building your deck in the off-season to save money.
Avoid add-on features: Stick to the essentials and avoid splurging on unnecessary extras like built-in seating or elaborate railings to keep costs down.
Trex Decking Maintenance and Long-Term Costs
One of the biggest advantages of Trex decking is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood decking, Trex doesn’t need to be sanded, stained, or sealed on a regular basis to maintain its appearance and durability. However, Trex decking does require some basic cleaning and care to keep it looking its best.
To clean Trex decking, simply use soap, water, and a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris. For tougher stains, you can use a pressure washer on a low setting or a specialized composite deck cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface of the decking.
In addition to regular cleaning, it’s important to keep your Trex deck clear of debris like leaves and twigs that can trap moisture and promote mold growth. You should also trim any overhanging trees or shrubs to prevent sap or other organic matter from staining the deck.
In terms of long-term costs, Trex decking can be a smart investment compared to traditional wood decking. While the upfront cost of Trex may be higher than wood, the reduced maintenance and longer lifespan can save you money over time. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2021 Cost vs. Value Report, a composite deck addition can recoup around 63% of its cost in resale value, compared to around 65% for a wood deck addition. However, the reduced maintenance and longer lifespan of composite decking may make it a more attractive option for potential buyers.
Conclusion
In summary, the cost of Trex decking can vary widely depending on factors like the size of your deck, the specific Trex product line you choose, and the complexity of the installation process. On average, you can expect to pay between $15 and $40 per square foot for Trex decking materials, with additional costs for labor, substructure materials, and any add-on features.
Trust the Experts in Composite Deck Installation
Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or are ready to start building, Decked Out Builders is here to be your trusted deck-building partner. Our team of skilled professionals has decades of experience as premier composite deck builders in Illinois and Wisconsin. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about composite decking materials and can help you schedule a design consultation when you’re ready to move forward.
In addition to custom composite decks, we offer a range of other outdoor living services, including porches, patios, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, and more. Browse our portfolio of showpiece custom decks and request your free quote today to start turning your outdoor living dreams into reality.
