Trex Decking

The Most Popular Questions&Answers  Pt 2 of 3

What Colors are available in Trex?

Redwood, cedar, grey decking boards and also in Trex composite railing.

What difference is there between "plastic" decking and Trex Decking?

Plastic is what it is, 100% plastic.  While Trex is made of 50% plastic, and 50% wood fibers.  Trex sports the advantage of minimal expansion and contraction of the boards, while have natural UV protection.  It also has good traction in all weathers and can be painted.  Plus it's installation is as if you were installing and cutting wood decking.

How about the sizes and lengths of Trex?

It's available in the same dimensions as wood lumber decking.  For example, balusters from trex come in 2x4, and 2x6 equivalent to wood.  Trex decking comes in lengths of 12',16' and 20' lengths and widths the same as a wood 2x6.

Will the color of Trex decking ever change?

Slightly in approximately  10-12 weeks  of exposure to the sunlight and water.

Trex Warranty Information?

It is a fully-transferable limited warranty.  It covers your decking  against material defects , splintering, checking, rot, splitting, termites, and decay.

How long will Trex last?

Currently the complete life expectancy is undetermined.  Although, Trex indicates that through a program of accelerated age testing, it has passed successfully over the fifty year mark.  This test includes exposure to harsh weather conditions, while the Trex  experiences little affect to it's surface.

How would I dispose of leftover pieces of Trex Decking?

Since Trex lumber contains no toxic preservatives, disposal would be the sme as wood decking, and can be taken to the dump.  Do not burn Trex, due to its makeup.

Can Trex decking be stained or painted ?

Yes it can but not required for any type of protection.  Paint or even stains can be applied to Trex and will display very good adhesion. Trex recommends the paint to be a high quality latex or acrylic, and a solid color paint. Also check the manufacturer  instructions.

What Tools will I need to install Trex Decking?

With the same tools you would use with wood decking.  Trex can be drilled,   routed,  miter or skilled  sawn with a carbide blade .

How about using Trex material for deck posts or joists?

Absolutely not.  Trex does not have the same compositions as wood as far as load strength.  Trex is only excellent for its durability for walking on when well supported from underneath.     

What are the recommended Joist spans when using Trex?

For 5/4x6 deck boards, space your joists not more than 16 inches on center for home applications, which you may notice is the same span for wood. The 2x material not more that 20 inch on center for home applications and no more than 16 inches on center if its a commercial installation. 

Do I need  to gap between  my Trex boards?

Absolutely, and in both directions. Although you can expect slight contraction and expansion due to changes in temperature.  So gapping is a requirement.  Be sure to gap side to side on the boards as well as the ends to allow for such contraction and expansion. Any Trex that you may use for fascia or siding around the deck must also be gapped like decking and it will also allow for air flow.

How about stains, how do I clean my deck of this?

Stains such as mold, leaves, mildew, and such can be washed with a sodium hypoclorite deck wash.  Rust stains and dirt, use a cleaner containing phosphoric acid .  Grease and oil, use a detergent  with a degreasing agent and scrub the area as soon as possible.  Its also a good idea to periodically clean out the gaps between the boards of leaves and debris with a flat tool. 

Can Trex be bent?

Yes.

Storage of Trex?

Keep in mind Trex is more flexible than wood decking.  If you need to store Trex, keep in together on a flat service.  If for an extended time, it might be a good idea to use scrape wood every 2 feet under the trex to keep it off the ground.  Over time the dirt may stain the last board.

Go to Trex Part 3 Most Popular Questions&Answers

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