Composites such as Trex, are again, made of wood and plastic.  Wood naturally  over time breaks down.  The plastic part will stay healthy, but the wood part of the board will eventually disintegrate absorbing bacteria and moisture. So how does mold begin to occur?  The bacteria feeds on the wood part of the composite board producing mold.

An important tip when installing Trex composite very close to the ground within 18 inches or less.  The composite deck boards being close to the ground means more moisture absorption into the deck board creating a faster breakdown of the board.  To correct this condition,  you will need to ventilate the deck such as ventilation screens on the fascia for more airflow in and out of the underside of the deck.   Another important tip:  Be sure to read the small print on the product brochure where you will find the topic above discussed in the small print.

Most say Trex is probably the best selling deck material and is widely known. Trex has recently made some slight improvements in its products, while offering a new higher end deck board.   Many people do like the looks and feel or strength of the board. However there are issues with Trex consumers need to be aware of as follows;

1. Trex is susceptible to mold and mildew.  Mold will appear from the inside out because it still has wood in the product, and that's what the word  composite means.  Although some say mold can be removed from the boards, it will cost you time, effort and materials each time.

2. Trex fades, it will not fade evenly and  will begin to fade in a short time. Best color  for Trex is grey,  because itlooks nice even after fading.

3.  Realize too that as you entertain on your deck, expect any spills such as coffee, sauces, wine, juice, alcohol and pool water will stain trex permanently.  Add children to the scene above and let your imagination go wild.

4. Pay attention to the Trex 25 year warranty, it will not warrant the overall look of Trex through time.

5. If your thinking of installation Trex with a hidden deck fastener, It's not made to work with this.  Bottom line is Trex can be installed by nailing or using deck screws.

Trex initially looks great and will perform despite staining and mold problems. Trex Artisan which is a railing package is by far great looking and has been tested with flying colors. However for a few cents more there are other alternatives available that might suit your lifestyle even better.

Artisan Trex Railing Picture  and Information Below:

Low maintenance - durable, weatherproof composite is easy to care for.  Easy to install - assembles quickly with the TrexExpress™ Railing Assembly System.  Sturdy railing system - Crafted with Fibrex®, a patented technology licenses from Andersen Corporation, it eliminates vibrations, squeaks and rattles. » Finished quality - innovative design and fit create a premier look. » Backed by a 25-year limited residential warranty.

Trex Artisan Railing sets a New Standard for Quality & Performance.  The clean look of painted wood is one of the hottest trends in deck design. Choose traditional balusters or contemporary glass paneling to create a deck that combines beauty and performance.

See  Composite Deck Series for more composite info & comparisons

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