With our state’s distinct Pacific Northwest climate, selecting a deck that withstands so much dampness and rain is crucial.
This blog dives into an in-depth comparison of two popular composite decking choices that might be just the right solution for a deck that you can enjoy for a lifetime: TimberTech and Trex.
Let’s see which brand comes out on top!
Key Takeaways
- TimberTech decks have high UV resistance and a longer warranty.
- Trex uses recycled wood and plastic, which makes it more earth-friendly.
- Washington's weather can harm both brands over time.
- TimberTech offers better scratch resistance, which is ideal for homes with kids or pets.
- There's a range of prices for both brands depending on product line design.
- TimberTech has better capping, giving it an edge particularly good for WA State weather.
Materials and Durability of TimberTech and Trex Composite Decking
Comparison of materials used
Regarding the materials used in TimberTech and Trex decking, several key differences can be noted. These differences play a significant role in the overall durability and longevity of your deck.
| Features | TimberTech | Trex |
|---|---|---|
| Core Material | Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Recycled wood and plastic blend |
| Capping | Fully capped on all four sides | Capped only on three sides |
| UV Resistance | Highly resistant due to PVC and full capping | Less resistant due to partial capping and use of recycled materials |
| Eco-friendliness | Low due to use of PVC, which is not easily recyclable | High due to the use of recycled wood and plastic |
As you can see, the materials used in TimberTech and Trex decking differ significantly. TimberTech utilizes PVC and fully caps its boards, which enhances UV resistance.
However, this comes at the cost of reduced eco-friendliness.
On the other hand, Trex uses a blend of recycled wood and plastic, which makes it more eco-friendly.
However, its capping on only three sides makes it less resistant to UV rays, potentially affecting its longevity.
Impact of Washington State's Weather on Durability
Washington State has heavy rain, snow, and sun. These can make the deck color fade fast and cause cracks and warps over time. This harms the deck’s look and safety.
Both brands stand up to such weather well, but not forever.
TimberTech Vs Trex Decking Cost
Cost is usually an important factor in deciding a decking material.
Pricing Comparison
Regarding the pricing for TimberTech and Trex decking, there is a bit of a range to consider.
Both brands offer a variety of options, with prices influenced by material quality, design complexity, and product line.
Below, we have broken down the average costs per square foot for each brand’s main product line.
| Brand | Product Line | Length | Price per Board |
|---|---|---|---|
| TimberTech | Terrain | 16 feet | $65 |
| TimberTech | Reserve | 16 feet | $88 |
| TimberTech | Legacy | 16 feet | $102 |
| Trex | Lineage | 16 feet | $106 |
| Trex | Transcend | 16 feet | $84 |
| Trex | Enhance | 16 feet | $48 |
TimberTech Vs Trex Warranty
TimberTech and Trex both offer limited warranties to protect your investment. The warranties cover issues that arise due to manufacturing defects and are fairly comprehensive.
Here’s how the warranties for the two brands stack up:
| Brand | Product Line | Warranty Offered |
|---|---|---|
| TimberTech | Prime Plus | 25 years |
| TimberTech | Reserve | 30 years |
| TimberTech | Legacy | 30 years |
| Trex | Lineage | 50 years |
| Trex | Transcend | 25 years |
| Trex | Enhance | 25 years |
Conclusion
Both TimberTech and Trex decking can stand up to Washington State’s weather pretty good, but one has a particular edge.
TimberTech’s capping on all 4 sides keeps water and dampness away from the core of the board. Even if water somehow penetrates the surface layer (or the capping), it reaches a PVC core that does not rot.
With Trex, water can reach the core easier through the only side that remains uncapped, and because its core is made of recycled wood, the board can actually rot and lose its some of its quality.
Besides, the longer warranty that TimberTech offers and the line of AZEK PVC decks make us say that TimberTech is better for the environment in Washington State.
If you need more information about TimberTech vs Trex, or you want to start building your own composite deck, give us a ring, and we’ll make sure your project comes to fruition the right way!