Trex® Frequently Asked Questions

Top Five Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Trex decking cost?

The cost of a Trex deck typically runs from $9 to $16 per square foot. Of course, that depends on where you're buying it, and how much you’re purchasing. Visit our Cost Calculator for a customized estimate.

Which type of decking do I own?

Please refer to the Decking and Railing section of this FAQ for details on all of our product lines, and to explore the difference between our early-generation and newer-generation decking. Unsure if your deck is made with Trex? Start by reviewing our decking product lines to compare your decking against our collection. If you're still unsure, contact us over the phone.

How do I clean my Trex deck?

Trex decking is designed for a low-maintenance experience. A simple soap-and-water clean is all it takes. For more details, refer to our Care and Cleaning section.

How do I install my Trex product?

Our installation guide has you covered. And take a look through our YouTube channel for more tricks and tips along the way.

Why is Trex® decking better than wood?

Trex products offer superior durability and performance that you can't get from wood. Trex decking resists termites, won't rot, warp, or splinter-and never needs staining or painting. What's more, Trex decking is made from 95% recycled materials: That's an eco-friendly decking choice you can feel great about. To learn more please review our Trex vs. Wood page.

General

If Trex is made from recycled materials, why is it more expensive than wood?

While most of the raw materials used in making Trex are recycled, these materials are carefully processed to ensure the highest level of quality and performance. The end result is decking that performs better than wood, lowering your cost over time through lesser maintenance. To learn more please review our Always Green page.

What is the lifetime value of Trex?

With pressure-treated wood decks, maintenance costs add up over time. Although Trex costs more initially, you'll never have to sand, stain or paint your Trex deck. Over the life of your deck, those reduced maintenance costs add up to a greater value than wood—not to mention the value of the added time spent enjoying your deck rather than working on it.

Can you send me product samples?

You can find Trex decking samples a number of ways. At Trex.com/Shop, you can order 12-inch samples of Trex decking in every color. Samples are $5 each, including shipping, and will be delivered to your door. You also can find 3 1/2-inch decking samples free of charge at selected local Trex dealers and retailers and through your local TrexPro® contractor.

What is the difference between early-generation Trex decking and newer-generation decking and how can I tell which version I have?

Early‑generation composite decking and new‑generation materials can be told apart by how they age and how they’re built. While our early-generation decking was groundbreaking for its time, spills and scuffs can still leave a mark. Newer-generation decking is easy to spot because of its resilience and durability. Today's Trex composite decking resists blemishes with our innovative, high-performance shell.

EARLY GENERATION TREX

Early-generation composite decking (Trex Origins®, Trex Accents®, Trex Profiles®, Trex Brasilia® and Trex Contours®) represented a breakthrough for low-maintenance and durability. While wood decking inevitably suffered splinters, warping and rotting, and required considerable maintenance, early-generation Trex never had to be stained and did not rot, warp or twist like wood. Periodic cleanings with a composite deck cleaner were far easier than the dreaded sanding and staining required to maintain wood decks. As the category evolved, this early-generation composite was offered in additional colors and with grain patterns that reflected a more natural appearance. Even so, all early generation wood-plastic composites, whether Trex or a competitor's product, were not stain, scratch or mold-free, and did fade slightly in color as they naturally weathered. To address these issues, Trex introduced a new kind of high-performance decking in 2010. As of 2014, Trex no longer manufactures any early-generation composite decking.

NEWER-GENERATION HIGH PERFORMANCE TREX DECKING

Newer-generation Trex deck boards (Trex Signature®, Trex Transcend® Lineage®, Trex Transcend®, Trex Enhance®, Trex Select®) are manufactured with a high-performance shell that wraps around three sides of the composite board to protect it from the elements, providing resistance to fading*, staining*, scratching and mold. In addition to improved performance, the shell technology offers:

  • Easier maintenance: requiring only an occasional cleaning with soap and water or a pressure washer.
  • Enhanced aesthetics: richer, long-lasting color palettes and natural wood grain patterns.
  • Incremental warranty protection: 25-, 35-, and 50-year limited warranties for most products.

Trex also features non-composite options with our Trex® Refuge™ PVC decking.

*For details, visit trex.com/warranty and trex.com/care

Is there a mobile app to see what a deck would look like on my house?

While we do not have an app experience to visualize a Trex® deck on your home, you can explore design options using our Deck Designer Tool on desktop and our Railing Designer Tool on mobile.

How long does composite decking last?

Trex materials come with specific warranties, but it doesn’t mean they won’t last longer. When Trex launched its original product in 1998 it came with a 10-year warranty. This product is still installed in many homes and looks great after more than 25 years.

There have been many improvements in our products and materials, now featuring a coextruded shell in our famous composite decking that protects the board from extreme weather, making them last even longer than our early materials, allowing our products to have upwards of a 50-year limited residential warranty.

Does Home Depot stock Trex?

Home Depot stocks a selection of Trex decking and railing products in-store, providing customers with high-quality, durable options for their outdoor living spaces. Among these, you'll find the stunning Enhance Naturals Rocky Harbor decking, alongside the versatile Trex Enhance Railing in Classic White, Charcoal Black, and Vintage Lantern. Trex Hidden Fasteners are also available in convenient 50 sq. ft. and 200 sq. ft. sizes, ensuring seamless installation. Additional decking, fascia, railing, and fastening options are also available through special orders from the Pro Desk in-store or online at HomeDepot.com. /Decking and railing selection may vary by store.

Does Lowe’s stock Trex?

Lowe’s stocks a selection of Trex decking and railing products, designed to elevate your outdoor spaces with style, durability, and innovation. From the timeless appeal of Enhance Basics in Saddle, Clam Shell, Pebble Beach, and Tide Pool to the sophisticated beauty of Enhance Naturals in Foggy Wharf, Toasted Sand, and Honey Grove, every option reflects the cutting edge of outdoor design. In-store, you’ll find Trex Enhance Railing in Classic White, Charcoal Black, and Saddle, as well as 12’ White Trex Trim and Trex Hidden Fasteners, thoughtfully sized for 50 or 200 sq. ft. projects. For even more tailored solutions, additional profiles and items are available in-store at the Pro Desk or at Lowes.com ensuring you have access to everything you need to bring your vision to life.

Lowe’s also offers Trex railing components, empowering you to create a seamless, polished finish. Explore 4x4 Trex Post Sleeves, Post Sleeve Caps, Skirts, and Railing Kits, which include top and bottom rails, hardware, and modern black aluminum balusters. Additionally, Lowe’s stocks color-matched deck screws in Toasted Sand, Clam Shell, Foggy Wharf, and Saddle, along with Trex Hidden Fasteners for secure, professional results. With these innovative products at your fingertips, Lowe’s makes it easier than ever to build the outdoor space of your dreams—designed to endure, inspire, and enhance your lifestyle for years to come.

Does Trex make porch flooring?

Trex no longer manufactures dedicated porch boards, but their high-quality decking boards can still be installed on porches, offering the same durability and low-maintenance benefits. Trex decking, designed for outdoor use, is an excellent choice for creating a beautiful and long-lasting porch surface. Its innovative composite material is resistant to fading*, staining*, and moisture, making it perfect for withstanding the elements on a porch. With a variety of colors, widths, and textures available, Trex decking can complement any home’s aesthetic while providing the same level of performance and style that Trex is known for. So, while Trex doesn’t have specific porch boards anymore, their decking products can easily fulfill the role and enhance any porch’s design and functionality.

*For details, visit trex.com/warranty and trex.com/care

Decking

Can a groove be cut in the side of a Trex deck board?

Yes, a groove can be cut in the side of Trex decking by using our Trex Groove Cutter to accept our recommended hidden fasteners, a system that enables deck installation without visible screw heads on the walking surface. More conveniently, Trex decking is also available in pre-grooved profiles, ready to install with our Trex Hideaway® Hidden Fastening System.

Can I build a firepit on my Trex deck?

Wood or gas fire pits should not be placed on top of Trex decking. However, gas fire pits may be installed beside or between deck boards with a protective wall made of stone or other fire-resistant material used for insulation. 

Wood burning fire pits should not be placed on top of Trex decking unless installed with DeckProtect™, a product designed to temper extreme heat and loose embers. For more information, please visit their website.

Can I paint or stain my Trex boards?

The unyielding shell of our high-performance decking—Trex Transcend, Trex Enhance and Trex Select—means it never needs painting or staining. The rich color and protective finish are engineered right into the shell, and the shell is designed to remain free of rotting, splitting, splintering and insect damage for 25 years. Not to mention, painting Trex decking may void your warranty.

Can I place rugs on my Trex deck?

Most area rugs aren't a problem with Trex decking, but we do recommend cleaning underneath them regularly. In rare cases, rugs made of plastic or viscose materials may bleed, drawing colorant out of the decking or making them difficult to remove. Always allow your decking to fully dry before fitting a rug into place.

Can I use a non-recommended fastener to install Trex decking?

Trex does not endorse the use of any non-recommended fastener. If any condition occurs which is attributable to the use of a non-recommended fastener, such conditions would not be covered under the Trex Limited Warranty. Please see our Installation Guide for more information.

Can Trex be curved?

Trex offers a wide variety of decking options and railing configurations capable of being custom curved. When considering a deck with these characteristics, utilize the “find a builder” tool to determine which professionals in your area work on curved profiles. When planning curved railing, visit our Trex Signature® Curved Railing page for design and ordering guidance.

Can Trex be placed over a solid surface?

Trex can only be installed over a solid surface when using a sleeper system; see the sleeper system guidelines in our Installation Guide.

Can Trex deck boards be glued?

Glue cannot be used as a primary fastener for Trex decking. When using Trex Fascia, glue can be used as a secondary fastener-see Fascia instructions in the Installation Guide for more details Installation Guide for more details.

Can you rip a Trex board?

Trex products should not be ripped to reduce thickness, but can be ripped to reduce width. As long as the board can still be installed per the installation instructions, the warranty will be valid. Please use care when fastening ripped boards, as pre-drilling may be necessary.

Does Trex decking get hot on a sunny day?

Like many other outdoor surfaces, such as concrete, asphalt, beach sand, wood decking, other brands of composite decking, etc., Trex decking can get hot due to weather and sun exposure.  On such days, care needs to be taken to make sure skin does not have extended contact with the surface of the deck, especially with young children and those with special needs.  Please note also that the darker the color, the hotter the deck will feel.  For hotter climates, consumers should consider choosing a lighter color.

Does Trex fade or change color?

How well your Trex deck endures Mother Nature depends upon what type of Trex you have. Early generation composite decks - such as Trex Accents®, Trex Origins®, Trex Profiles®, Trex Brasilia® and Trex Contours® - do not have the high-performance shell with enhanced fade, stain and mold resistance. As such, these traditional composites will fade naturally over time, achieving their weathered color after 12-16 weeks. For Natural Weathering Information, click here. Newer generation high-performance composites - Trex Transcend®, Trex Enhance® and Trex Select® - have the protective shell technology that provides superior fade and stain resistance.

How heavy is Trex decking?

Trex boards are 50-70% heavier than comparable lumber sections.

How much does Trex decking and railing cost?

The cost of a Trex deck typically runs from $9 to $16 per square foot. As with many things in life, you get what you pay for. Initially, Trex decking and railing does cost more, board for board, than wood decking and railing. However, the payoff you get over time in decreased maintenance costs and increased leisure time provides compelling value-so much so, that you'll often see Trex decks referenced in the listings of homes for sale as an indicator of quality and value that homeowners and real estate agents tout when selling a home. Of course, the real value is in the time that you enjoy spending outdoors on your Trex deck. Our Cost Calculator will have your closest estimate for materials costs.

Is Trex code-compliant?

All Trex products, when properly installed for approved applications, are either code compliant or are undergoing rigorous code compliance review for the International Residential Code (IRC) and/or the International Building Code (IBC). Check with your local building code department for jurisdictional requirements.

Is Trex fire resistant?

Nothing is more important than your safety outdoors. At Trex, we do everything we can to ensure it. Our Transcend and Select decking lines retain a Class B fire rating, while our Enhance decking lines retain a Class C fire rating; however, they are not fireproof. 

Is Trex structural?

Trex wood plastic composite products are not structural and should only be used for intended design purposes such as walking surfaces, guardrail systems, fencing and trim.

 

Is Trex suitable for use in commercial settings?

The breadth of the Trex lineup means that there are Trex products to suit nearly any residential or commercial need. Trex decking is widely used in commercial and public projects throughout the U.S. and around the world, ranging from a landing at Mt. Rushmore and a resort in Dubai, to a pier in Philadelphia and New Jersey-shore boardwalks replacing those destroyed by Hurricane Sandy. Of course, Trex is more than just decking. The sleek profile of Trex Signature® railing works as well for commercial and multi-unit residential complexes as it does for your own backyard, while Trex Outdoor Furniture™ can be found in many coastal resorts under Trex Pergola™ installations.

What is the difference between your good, better and best product lines?

Trex high-performance decking and railing products combine low-maintenance upkeep and designminded style—all backed by our 25-year Limited Residential Warranty. The protective shell technology means all of our deck boards resist staining, fading and cracking, with the highest level of scratch resistance available from our Transcend Earth Tones and Tropicals decking lines, followed by Select Earth Tones, Enhance Naturals and Enhance Basics. Beyond that, Trex offers a variety of high-performance railing choices to meet different levels of style, performance and affordability.

Decking:

  1. [BEST] Trex Transcend® decking offers the broadest range of decking colors and finishes (including five Earth Tones and five Tropicals). Engineered with a proprietary shell technology that protects against fading, staining, scratching, mold and mildew, Transcend decking offers elevated aesthetics paired with the highest level of performance. Plus, Transcend deck boards offer the beauty of exotic wood—without the environmental strain of harvesting endangered forests.
  2. [BETTER] Our Trex Select® Earth Tones and Trex Enhance® Naturals collections both offer high performance in five versatile colors. No matter which you choose, their fade and stain protections as well as enhanced mold and mildew resistance make maintenance simple. The question then becomes: what hue suits you? 

    If a classic solid is your style, Select Earth Tones deliver rich, opaque color to your yard. The perfect pairing of price and minimal maintenance, Select is a simple choice, particularly if you want a composite board with a profile that not only resembles traditional lumber, but can also be used as cocktail railing. 

    For a multi-tonal look, opt for Enhance Naturals. With its nature-inspired, authentic wood-grain appearance and lightweight, scalloped profile for simple handling, this collection offers the beauty of wood with the ease of composite. 

    Note: Select boards are slightly thinner than all Transcend and Enhance decking; to avoid tripping hazards, these collections should not be combined.
  3. [GOOD] Trex Enhance® Basics meld the durability of composite with the affordability of wood, resulting in long-lasting, worry-free decking. Trex Enhance Basics decking comes in three traditional colors, and because the boards are scalloped, they’re lightweight for easy handling.

Railing:

  1. [BEST] Trex Signature® aluminum railing offers minimalist style with maximum strength. Trex Signature® also performs equally well for residential or commercial settings. What's more, aluminum is a 100% recyclable and renewable resource and Trex Signature® is backed by the Trex Signature®/Reveal® Limited Warranty.
  2. [BETTER] Trex® Transcend railing offers nearly limitless opportunities to mix and match profiles and colors for a customized look. Our highest-performance railing option offers more colors in more component profiles than any railing out there.
  3. [GOOD] Trex Select® railing is our simplest and most affordable high-performance system. The Classic White rails and Charcoal Black balusters of Trex Select can also mix and match with different colors of Trex post sleeves, post sleeve caps and post sleeve skirts.
What materials are used in the manufacturing of Trex® decks?

Trex decking is made from 95% recycled materials, including reclaimed wood and sawdust as well as recycled plastic from many common household items, such as the plastic overwrap on packaging for paper towels and toilet paper, dry cleaner bags, newspaper bags, grocery and shopping bags. Trex annually salvages and keeps more than 500 million pounds of plastic and wood scrap out of landfills. That makes Trex one of the largest plastic film recyclers in the U.S. In fact, the average 500-square-foot composite Trex deck contains 140,000 recycled plastic bags. To learn more, please visit our Always Green page.

Can Trex decking be used around pools?

Yes, Trex decking can be used to make pool decks. Pool chemicals, such as chlorine and bromine, cause no fading or structural damage to the boards. Periodic cleaning, however, is advised.

Can Trex decking be used in dock construction?

Trex decking is approved for all water-contact applications. Boards can be submerged in water for extended periods of time, including multiple times a day with rising tides.

Stainless steel fasteners should be used. In addition, if there is a great deal of contact between the dock and gasoline, grounding of the dock is also recommended.

Can Trex decking be sanded?

Trex decking should never be sanded, as doing so can compromise both its appearance and its protective qualities. Sanding alters the material’s surface, potentially affecting its ability to resist stains, scratches, and UV damage. Additionally, sanding Trex will void the warranty for any issues that arise due to this alteration. To maintain your deck’s integrity and ensure its longevity, it’s best to avoid sanding and instead follow the recommended care and cleaning guidelines. For more detailed information, visit the official Trex care and cleaning page here, How To Clean Composite Decking | Trex

Does Trex have a tongue and groove decking?

No. However, Trex offers grooved edge boards, which are designed to create a flawless, secure fit with Hidden Fastener clips, while still allowing the boards to be gapped. These grooved boards provide a clean, fastener-free surface, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your decking while maintaining the strength and durability that Trex is known for. For more information on this decking profile explore our Trex composite board dimensions. 

Does Trex make 20-foot lengths?

Yes, Trex does offer decking boards in 20-foot lengths, though availability may vary depending on the specific product line and location. Trex decking, such as the Signature, Lineage, Transcend, Enhance, Refuge, and Select collections, can be found in a range of lengths, including 20 feet, to accommodate larger deck designs and reduce the number of seams. If you're looking for 20-foot boards, it's best to check with your local Trex distributor or retailer to confirm availability and ensure the specific product you're interested in is offered in that length.

Does Trex come in 2x4?

Yes, Trex does offer a 2x4 size in the Transcend collection, not including the color Rope Swing, specifically designed for use in a cocktail rail application. This 2x4 is perfect for adding a stylish, functional touch to your outdoor living space, creating a beautiful and durable rail that complements the high-performance Transcend Tropicals decking.

Does Trex come in 2x6?

Yes, Trex does offer a 2x6 board in both the Select and Transcend (in certain colors) lines, providing an excellent option for those seeking a wider profile for their decking or railing projects. These 2x6 boards combine the durability and low-maintenance benefits of Trex with a wider, more substantial appearance, adding a sophisticated and sturdy touch to your outdoor space.

How long is a 16 -foot Trex board?

Trex decking boards are manufactured to be up to 3 inches longer than the stated lengths. This extra length provides you with the flexibility to make a clean cut on each end of the board before installation, ensuring a flawless, professional finish. Whether you're trimming boards to fit your specific design or cutting them to meet exact measurements, this added length allows for a perfect, polished edge that enhances the overall appearance of your deck. It also helps to account for any slight variations during installation, ensuring your Trex deck is as precise and beautiful as possible.

What is the thickness of Trex fascia?

Trex Fascia is manufactured with an actual thickness of 0.56-inch. The 0.56-inch thickness adds strength and resilience, making it an ideal choice for enhancing the overall appearance of your deck while maintaining the high standards of low-maintenance, long-lasting quality that Trex is known for.

What is the cheapest line of Trex decking?

The Trex Enhance line is the most cost-friendly option offered by Trex, making it an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality decking at a more affordable price. With its nature-inspired, authentic wood-grain appearance, this collection brings the timeless beauty of wood to your outdoor space while offering the added benefits of composite materials. Available in a variety of monochromatic and multi-tonal shades, Trex Enhance delivers versatility in design, allowing you to create the perfect look for your deck. Plus, it is backed by a 25-year limited residential warranty, providing peace of mind knowing your deck will maintain its beauty and durability for many years to come.

Is Trex Enhance the same as Trex Select?

Trex Enhance and Trex Select are both cost-friendly options in Trex’s decking lineup, but they differ in design and features. Trex Enhance offers an authentic wood-grain appearance with the durability of composite and the affordability of wood. With both monochromatic and multi-tonal shades, Enhance features a lighter, scalloped profile. It is the more affordable of the two, backed by a 25-year limited residential warranty. In contrast, Trex Select provides a solid board option with a slightly higher price point, offering the perfect pairing of price and minimal maintenance nature with inspired colors that pair smartly with any home while being backed by a 35-year limited residential warranty. Both are excellent options for budget-conscious homeowners seeking high-performance composite decking.

Does Trex Enhance Basic scratch easily?

While all of our material will have varying scratch resistance between lines, none of our product is scratch proof. As you go up in our lines of decking, the scratch resistance will additionally increase with the product starting with a one-star scratch resistance for the Enhance line of decking leading all the way up to a 5-star resistance with our Signature line of decking.

Railing

Does Trex make deck railings?

Yes, Trex does make deck railings. They offer a variety of railing systems in composite, aluminum, and a new steel option, all designed to complement their respective decking collections while providing both style and functionality. Trex railings are available in several designs and colors, including options like Trex Signature X-Series aluminum, Trex Signature aluminum, Trex Transcend composite, Trex Select aluminum and composite, and Trex Enhance steel and composite. These railings feature aluminum and composite balusters, mesh, cable, and glass panels, as well as lighting options, offering a customizable and elegant look for any outdoor space. Trex railings are built to match the durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal of their decking products, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to complete their deck design.

How do you install deck railing kits?

Each deck rail kit will include installation instructions based on the product and application requirements. In addition to our written instructions, we have installation videos on Trex Academy as well as live representatives to assist with installation questions (Monday – Friday). Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-289-8739 so we can help get your project finished!

How much does it cost to redo a deck railing?

There are many variables that go into the cost of redoing a deck railing. Trex is here to work with you to turn your dream deck into a reality. Whether it’s talking through the different line options or what is needed to create a section of railing – we are here to answer those hard-hitting questions and provide our feedback on ways to keep your curated vision and your cost aligned. Use our cost calculator tool to get an idea of what the railing may cost for your next project.

What is the average cost for a deck railing?

Railing costs vary significantly based on various deck plan details such as material, labor, and design extras (curving, cocktail rails, lighting, etc.). Use our cost calculator tool to get an idea of what the railing may cost for your next project.

What is the best railing for a deck?

The best railing for your deck is the one that will meet your aesthetic needs and practical requirements. Does the railing need to be a certain height for your local code requirements? Does it need to be a particular color for HOA standards? Do you prefer a more modern or traditional aesthetic? Still not sure? Give us a call so we can help talk through your application and find the perfect railing 1-800-289-8739.

What are the different types of deck railings?

With a list of products that include composite or powder-coated aluminum and glass panels, mesh panels, vertical balusters, or horizontal rods there are many railing options to choose from.

Trex Signature® X-Series™ Railing, outdoor sophistication and X-ponential style. Featuring our modern stainless steel cable or the frameless glass infill for unobstructed views and streamlined looks. 

Trex Signature® Railing is a powder-coated aluminum rail, with the option of round or square balusters, mesh infill, glass infill or a Rod Rail system. A railing with effortless style and exceptional strength.

Trex Transcend® Railing is a composite rail, with the option of using a square composite baluster or round aluminum baluster. Transcend has multiple composite color options to choose from for the top and bottom rail and composite square balusters. Our most customizable railing, Trex Transcend Railing is a timeless design you can trust and tailor. 

Trex Select® Composite Railing and Trex Select™ Aluminum Railing outperforms vinyl and wood options. Trex Select Aluminum is a powder-coated aluminum metal railing where elegance meets simplicity. Trex Select Classic and T-Rail are composite rails that come with a round aluminum baluster, or composite balusters. Trex Select composite options are the simple choice for your outdoor space. 

Trex Enhance™ Steel Railing is a functional design at a budget-friendly cost. Trex® Enhance® composite Railing (available at select home centers) is a budget friendly composite option for an upgraded from wood or vinyl look.

Which railing is the easiest to install?

With different levels of expertise, the easiest railing to install will be our pre-assembled panels, which are available in most lines. These systems consists of pre-assembled parts that save you time and labor costs, without compromising the structural integrity or beauty of the railing design. 

What are the pieces of a deck railing called?

Railings usually consist of a top and bottom rail, post cap, post, post skirt, post sleeve, balusters, or an infill option like glass, cable, or mesh. Whether you are looking for more railing basics or for specifics about the Trex railing offering, we have you covered. Other accessorites include mounting brackets, footblocks, and other hardware are included in most kits or available separately for purchase.

Care and Cleaning

Can I use rock salt to melt ice on my Trex decking?

Calcium chloride or rock salt can be used to melt ice and snow on Trex decking. Care should be taken to rinse off when the weather makes this practical. Use plastic shovels (never metal) to remove snow and ice. A metal shovel can possibly chip the decking surface and void the warranty.

Can Trex decking be sanded or power washed?

Trex should never be sanded. Sanding will change the appearance and protective qualities of the Trex material and will void the warranty with respect to any condition caused by sanding.

For our early generation composite decking (Trex Accents, Trex Origins, Trex Brasilia, Trex Profiles or Trex Contours), Trex does not recommend the use of a power washer. Use of a power washer will damage the decking surface and will void the warranty with respect to any condition caused by the power washing.

Trex high-performance decking (Trex Transcend, Trex Enhance and Trex Select) can be power washed. Use only a fan tip and up to a 3100 psi power washer to remove dirt and debris. The fan tip should be no closer than 8 inches (20.4 cm) away from the protective shell during use.

How can I clean my Trex Transcend or Trex Select railing?

For color transfer issues (color transfer can happen when baluster spacers rub against balusters during installation), use Mr. Clean®, Magic Eraser® Original or Magic Eraser® Extra Power for spot removal. For small surface scratches, marks or scuffs, try Plexus® Plastic Cleaner. Never use acetone or other solvents on Transcend or Select railing.

How do I remove ground dirt from construction of my Trex Transcend decking?

A pressure washer with no greater than 3100 psi that has a fan attachment/adjustment and soap dispenser may be used to remove dirt, concrete dust, or other types of construction dirt. Spray deck with soap, and then follow by gently scrubbing each deck board with a soft bristle brush. Spray/rinse each individual deck board using fan tip no closer than 8" from the decking surface. RINSE THOROUGHLY. If dirty or hard water containing minerals is used for cleaning, a film-like surface may appear in spots after drying. Generally, these spots can be cleaned with white vinegar or a deck brightener product. On railing, they can be cleaned with Magic Eraser® or white vinegar. Refer to our Care & Cleaning Guide for more information on upkeep and warranties.

Is Trex decking maintenance-free?

Trex decking requires far lower maintenance than wood decking, but does require some maintenance to keep it looking good throughout the years, much like washing your car. For early generation composite decking (Trex Accents), periodic cleaning with a deck wash is required. Trex high-performance decking (Trex Transcend, Trex Enhance and Trex Select) require less work - a simple soap and water cleaning is all that is necessary to maintain the beauty of the products.

Is Trex decking scratch resistant?

Newer-generation Trex decking holds strong against potential damage. All of our decking lines are scratch resistant, protecting your space against nicks, cracks and splitting.

How can I clean my Trex Signature railing?

Regular cleaning may minimize the effects of weathering and remove dirt, grime and other build-up. The best method of maintaining the appearance of your Trex Signature® railing is to occasionally wash it using a solution of warm water and a non-abrasive, pH neutral detergent solution. The railing surface should be thoroughly rinsed after cleaning to remove all residues. Use a soft white cloth, sponge or a soft bristle brush. DO NOT clean Trex Signature® railing with solvents such as thinners or solutions containing chlorinated hydrocarbons, esters, or ketenes.

The following cleaners are recommended for cleaning
Trex Signature® railing:
- Formula 409® Cleaner Degreaser/Disinfectant
- Spray Nine® Cleaner/Disinfectant
- Simple Green® All Purpose Cleaner
- Fantastik® All Purpose Cleaner
- Windex® Cleaner

For more details, explore our Care & Cleaning guide.

Trex® DeckLighting™

Can I install Trex® DeckLighting™ on my own?

Trex DeckLighting is easy to install, and even easier to enjoy. Our plug-and-play setup is one of the most intuitive and simple lighting systems on the market. Refer to this video for the basics, and if you have any questions feel free to give us a call. We're happy to help you add lighting to your new (or existing) deck.

Can I use a different transformer with my Trex® DeckLighting™?

Trex requires that you use only the Trex transformer supplied with our lighting. Using any other transformer voids the warranty.

Trex® SpiralStairs™

Are there any special spiral stair kit ordering considerations you need to make for children or pets?

For small children and pets, our code stair kits come standard with in-between spindles, which provide less than a 4" spacing between verticals. In addition, you may want to use a gate at the top of the stair.

Are there special building code requirements to consider when installing a spiral stair kit?

Many areas follow BOCA or UBC codes or variations of the BOCA or UBC codes. All Trex Spiral Stair products pass BOCA/UBC code requirements. We recommend that you contact your local building inspector to find out what code applies to your area and how that code is interpreted.

How long does assembly take? Do I need a contractor to help me install my spiral stair kit?

Installing a stair kit is a two-person job. For the typical do-it-yourselfer, the stairs can be installed without the help of a contractor. However, we do recommend that everyone (experienced or inexperienced) consult a qualified contractor. The contractor can help identify whether any additional structural support is necessary and required, and he or she can reroute pipes and electric lines. For two do-it-yourselfers, the spiral stairs can be assembled in about 6-8 hours. For all stair kits, you need basic hand tools and an electric drill. Before installing, we strongly recommend that you read the entire installation manual.

I want to paint my galvanized spiral stairs a custom color. Should I paint them before or after assembly?

Galvanized stairs must weather before painting. Once weathered, contact your local paint store for the appropriate primer and paint for something that has been galvanized.

What are Trex Spiral Stairs?

Trex Spiral Stairs offer all the space-saving advantages of traditional spiral staircases in two material choices and come with custom, high-performance composite treads made from Trex decking. Trex Spiral Stairs were developed by the leading spiral stair manufacturer in the country, The Iron Shop, under a trademark license agreement with Trex Company, Inc

What if I lose my installation manual?

A PDF of our installation manual is available here.

What if my building department or inspector asks for an ICBO number?

The following are available for Trex Spiral Stairs:
LA City Standard Plans for spirals:
  Std Plan 111-T City of Los Angeles for CBC/IRC Metal Spirals for all Trex Spirals
  Std Plan 111 has also been adopted for City of San Diego, Calif.

Licenses:
City of Los Angeles Licensed Steel Fabricator #1150 (City of Los Angeles conducts random inspections on our fabrication plant in Broomall, Pa.)
County of San Bernardino Licensed Fabricator

What if something goes wrong?

If you run into a problem, call Trex Spiral Stairs at 877-488-1906. Our kits are guaranteed for 25 years from date of purchase.

What measurements do I need to order a spiral stair kit?

You will need to measure the exact height within .25" between the landing area and the top of the deck, including the width of the decking to ensure that your stairs end on the correct side.

Top Four Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of decking do I own?

Please refer to the Decking and Railing section of this FAQ for details on all of our product lines, and to explore the difference between our early-generation and newer-generation decking. Unsure if your deck is made with Trex? Start by reviewing our decking product lines to compare your decking against our collection. If you're still unsure, contact us over the phone.

How do I clean my Trex deck?

Trex decking is designed for a low-maintenance experience. A simple soap-and-water clean is all it takes. For more details, refer to our Care and Cleaning section.

How do I install my Trex product?

Our installation guide has you covered. And take a look through our YouTube channel for more tricks and tips along the way.

Why are Trex outdoor living products better than wood?

When it comes to Trex vs. wood, there's more to the story than the upfront price. While wood may be cheaper on day one, it could end up costing you far more by day 365 (and well beyond). Trex means quality, beauty and minimal maintenance, saving you time, money and everything that comes with a call to the handyman. Plus, the high-performance composite shell of Trex decking resists rotting, staining and cracking.

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