Trex vs TimberTech: Which Decking Should You Choose?
Choosing the right decking material can make a big difference in the look and durability of your outdoor space. With so many choices available, two brands often stand out: Trex and TimberTech. Both are trusted by homeowners and builders for their strength, style, and low maintenance.
The question is, which one is the better fit for your home? Each offers its own advantages in appearance, performance, and price. This guide will walk you through the main differences between Trex and TimberTech, including materials, warranties, costs, and overall value.
An Introduction to Composite Decking Materials
Composite decking materials, made from wood or wood-fiber combined with plastic polymer, have become popular as low-maintenance alternatives to traditional timber. Brands like Trex and TimberTech lead the market. While there are many similarities, there are also differences in performance, warranties, aesthetics, and price. Understanding those differences will help you choose what is best for your specific project.
Key Factors to Compare
When comparing composite decking, here are the most important factors to keep in mind:
Key Factors to Compare
| Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Resistance to moisture, rot, and fungal growth | Decks are exposed to weather. Moisture damage is costly and unpleasant. |
| Fade, stain, and UV resistance | Keeps the deck’s appearance fresh over time with less maintenance. |
| Scratch and dent resistance | Important for wear from furniture, pets, and tools. |
| Heat retention and comfort underfoot | Especially relevant in sunny or hot climates. |
| Material composition and environmental impact | A major factor for eco-conscious homeowners. |
| Warranty terms | Determines how long you are covered, what is included, and how much reimbursement applies. |
| Cost (upfront and lifetime) | Includes materials, installation, and maintenance over time. |
| Aesthetic options and availability | Helps you match your home style and personal taste. |
Trex vs TimberTech: How They Stack Up
| Feature | Trex | TimberTech |
|---|---|---|
| Material / Construction | Trex boards are made from a wood-plastic composite and capped with a polymer shell on most exposed surfaces. They use about 95% recycled and reclaimed materials. | TimberTech offers both capped composites and PVC or polymer-heavy lines, including AZEK and Advanced PVC. These provide higher moisture resistance and fully capped protection. |
| Moisture and Weather Resistance | Excellent overall. Trex is capped on three sides with the underside left open for airflow, which can make it slightly more exposed in humid climates. | Outstanding moisture resistance, especially in fully capped and PVC lines. Four-sided boards resist rot and mold, even in coastal or humid areas. |
| Fade, Stain, and UV Resistance | Trex provides strong warranties for fade and stain protection, up to 50 years on premium lines. Slight color change over time is normal. | TimberTech typically matches or exceeds Trex’s fade and stain performance, particularly in PVC lines that retain color better under harsh sun. |
| Scratch and Dent Resistance | Very durable, especially in premium lines like Trex Transcend, which feature tough, scratch-resistant finishes. | PVC and fully capped TimberTech lines provide superior resistance to scratches and dents, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. |
| Heat and Foot Comfort | Some Trex boards include SunComfort technology to help reduce heat absorption. Lighter colors stay cooler underfoot. | PVC lines stay cooler than composites and are better suited for hot, sunny climates. |
| Environmental / Recycled Content | Trex leads the industry with over 90% recycled materials and sustainable manufacturing. | TimberTech also uses recycled materials, but the percentage varies by product line. |
| Warranty | 25 years for most products and up to 50 years for premium lines. | 30 to 50 years for composite lines and limited lifetime coverage for select PVC lines. |
| Cost (Upfront and Lifetime) | Trex tends to be more affordable in mid-range lines. Premium options are still lower priced than many PVC alternatives. | TimberTech products typically cost more upfront but may require less maintenance over time. |
| Aesthetic Options and Deck Style | Wide range of natural and contemporary colors with realistic wood-grain textures. | Known for rich, wood-like finishes and a broad color palette in premium collections. |
| Availability and Installation | Widely available and easy for most contractors to install. Boards that are not fully capped require careful handling. | Heavier boards may need special handling and professional installation. Availability can vary by region. |
Pros and Cons Summary — Trex
| Trex – Pros | Trex – Cons |
|---|---|
| High recycled content and eco-friendly manufacturing. | Underside may be more exposed to moisture. |
| More affordable in mid-range lines. | Darker colors can retain more heat. |
| Strong warranties on premium lines. | Premium products cost more than entry-level options. |
| Wide variety of colors and textures. | Requires proper substructure for best results. |
Pros and Cons Summary — TimberTech
| TimberTech – Pros | TimberTech – Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent durability and weather resistance. | Higher upfront cost for premium lines. |
| Strong fade and stain protection. | Can still warm up in direct sunlight. |
| Realistic wood-grain finishes and color options. | Some features may be unnecessary for mild climates. |
Best Use Cases
| Your Priorities | Recommended Choice |
|---|---|
| Wet or humid environment | TimberTech PVC or fully capped lines |
| Eco-friendly materials | Trex |
| Moderate budget, long-lasting results | Trex Select or Enhance |
| Longest warranty and best color retention | TimberTech AZEK or premium PVC lines |
| Hot, sunny location | Light-colored TimberTech PVC |
| Natural wood appearance | TimberTech premium collections |
Cost and Warranty Overview
| Brand / Line | Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Fade & Stain Warranty | Product Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trex Basic / Mid (Enhance, Select) | $5–$10 | 25 years | 25 years |
| Trex Premium (Transcend) | Higher End; premiums for color, textures, and more extended warranties. | Up to 50 years | Extended product warranties, increased scratch/UV resistance, etc. |
| TimberTech Composite / Mid | Somewhat above Trex’s mid-composite in many cases. | 25–30 years | Product warranties are similar in mid-range lines; premium lines are more extensive. |
| TimberTech PVC / Premium (AZEK) | $$$ — the higher end of composite decking pricing. | Up to 50 years | Designed for long lifespans; typically more durable under harsh conditions. |
Things to Keep in Mind
● Composite decks are low-maintenance but not maintenance-free. Regular cleaning prevents mold and dirt buildup.
● Darker boards can get warmer in direct sunlight.
● Proper joist spacing and ventilation are key for long-term performance.
● Composite boards are heavier than wood, which can affect installation and transport costs.
● Always read warranty details carefully to understand coverage and maintenance requirements.
Which Decking Brand Is Right for You?
If you are building a deck in a mild climate and want strong performance with eco-friendly materials, Trex mid-to-premium lines are a great value.
If you live in a harsher climate with high humidity, heavy sun, or coastal exposure, TimberTech PVC or fully capped lines offer exceptional protection and longevity.
Both brands outperform natural wood in durability, maintenance, and long-term cost, making either an excellent choice for your next outdoor project.
Shop Trex and TimberTech Decking at O.K. Lumber
At O.K. Lumber Co., we carry both Trex and TimberTech composite decking so you can find the perfect match for your home and budget. Visit our store or contact us online for expert guidance, current availability, and help choosing the best materials for your next project.
