- What is the difference between Trex decking and "plastic lumber?"
- Unlike plastic lumber, which is typically 100% plastic, Trex decking is approximately 50% wood fiber and 50% plastic. Because of the wood content, Trex decking has the advantages of low thermal expansion/contraction, natural UV stability, good traction and paintability, and Trex decking is just as easy to work with as wood.
- Is Trex decking made of recycled materials?
- Trex decking is made from post-consumer and/or post-industrial reclaimed plastic and waste wood. The reclaimed plastic comes primarily from grocery sacks and stretch film, and the waste wood is from woodworking manufacturers.
- Does Trex decking come with a warranty?
- Yes, Trex decking has a fully-transferable limited warranty unmatched by competitive materials. The Trex decking limited warranty offers coverage against material defects in workmanship and materials, and against splintering, splitting, checking, rot, decay and termite damage, for a full 10 years. The total life expectancy for Trex decking is currently undetermined. Accelerated age testing is ongoing and has simulated over 50 years of exposure to harsh weather with little affect on our products.
- Can Trex lumber be used for deck posts or joists?
- No. While Trex lumber is tough and durable, it does not have the same stiffness as wood. Therefore, it is not intended for use as a load bearing post, joist or any other primary load-bearing member.
- Will Trex decking absorb moisture?
- Because of the plastic in Trex decking that surrounds the wood fiber, moisture absorption is extremely low.
- Will insects damage Trex decking?
- Trex decking has been tested and found to be highly resistant to damage from termites, carpenter ants and marine borers.
- Do building inspectors approve Trex decking and railing?
- Trex products have been approved for use in residential and commercial installations throughout North America. Trex decking has received a listing with ICBO (Report ICBO ES ER-5747) and the National Evaluation Service (Report NER-508) which covers BOCA and SBCCI. Trex has also been evaluated for use in Canada by the Canadian Construction Materials Centre. Please see Evaluation report 13125-R.