Homeowners across North Carolina are rethinking what it means to invest in an outdoor living space. A deck is more than just a platform for summer cookouts; it’s an extension of your home where you gather, relax, and build memories. The question many homeowners face today is: what type of decking material delivers the best long-term value?
For decades, traditional wood was the go-to option. But constant maintenance, susceptibility to rot, and short lifespans have left many families frustrated. That’s why more and more people are turning to Trex® composite decking. As the leader in composite decking materials, Trex® delivers a combination of beauty, strength, and sustainability that wood simply can’t match.
Trex composite decking lasts 25–50 years with minimal upkeep, while wood decking typically lasts 10–15 years and requires regular staining and sealing. Wood costs less upfront, but Trex® saves money long-term with lower maintenance and better durability, making it the smarter investment for homeowners.
At CPS Construction Services, we specialize in building custom decks with Trex® products, including Enhance®, Select®, and Transcend®. This article will highlight the top benefits of installing Trex® composite decking, why it outperforms wood in nearly every category, and how our expert deck builders help North Carolina homeowners create low-maintenance outdoor spaces that last for decades.
1. Exceptional Lifespan and Durability
One of the biggest frustrations with wood decks is how quickly they deteriorate. Even with routine staining and sealing, wood is vulnerable to splintering, warping, and insect damage. On average, a wood deck lasts 10 to 15 years before needing major repairs or replacement.
Trex® composite decking, on the other hand, is engineered for longevity. Depending on the product line, Trex® offers warranties of 25, 35, or even 50 years. The boards resist moisture, mold, termites, and fading, which makes them ideal for North Carolina’s humid summers and unpredictable weather. When properly installed by a professional contractor like CPS Construction Services, your Trex® deck can easily last 2–3 times longer than wood.
2. Low Maintenance Lifestyle
If you’ve ever owned a wood deck, you know how much time and money go into upkeep. Between staining, sealing, sanding, and replacing warped boards, the costs add up quickly. In fact, homeowners can expect to spend $300–$1,500 every few years on maintenance for a wood deck.
Trex® eliminates those hassles. The boards are fade- and stain-resistant, requiring only the occasional soap-and-water rinse to keep them looking fresh. That means less time working on your deck and more time enjoying it. For busy families, retirees, or anyone who wants a “set it and forget it” outdoor space, low-maintenance Trex® decking is a game changer.
3. Cost Savings Over Time
It’s true that Trex® decking has a higher upfront cost than wood. While wood decks typically cost $15–$25 per square foot installed, Trex® ranges from $30–$80 per square foot installed depending on the product line.
However, the numbers tell the full story. A wood deck may seem affordable at first, but once you add years of staining, sealing, repairs, and eventual replacement, the lifetime cost often exceeds that of composite decking. Trex® requires almost no upkeep and lasts decades longer, making it the more affordable option in the long run.
At CPS Construction Services, we help our clients weigh these costs with detailed estimates and transparent pricing, so you can see the savings clearly.
4. Eco-Friendly Building Materials
Trex® is not only durable, it’s also one of the most sustainable decking options available today. The company recycles more than 500 million pounds of plastic film and reclaimed wood fibers every year, transforming waste into beautiful decking materials. Grocery bags, plastic wrap, and sawdust all get a second life in your outdoor living space.
Unlike wood, which often requires chemical treatments for weather resistance, Trex® boards are safe, eco-conscious, and built to last without harmful additives. For homeowners who want a green building solution, Trex® composite decking is the clear winner.
5. Design Variety and Customization
A deck isn’t just functional, it should also reflect your personal style. Trex® composite decking comes in a wide range of colors, finishes, and grain patterns that mimic the natural look of wood without the downsides.
- Trex Enhance® – Affordable & Practical: A budget-friendly choice with classic colors and a 25-year warranty.
- Trex Select® – Balanced Performance & Style: A mid-range line with richer colors, realistic grain, and a 35-year warranty.
- Trex Transcend® – Premium Luxury & Longest Life: The top-tier option with luxury multi-tonal finishes, authentic wood looks, and a 50-year warranty.
With matching railings, fascia, and lighting, CPS Construction Services can design a deck that blends seamlessly with your home’s architecture and landscaping.
6. Resistance to North Carolina Weather
Anyone who has lived in North Carolina knows the challenges our climate poses to wood decks. High humidity, summer thunderstorms, and the occasional ice storm can wreak havoc on untreated wood.
Trex® composite decking is specifically engineered to resist moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. Unlike wood, Trex® won’t swell, crack, or warp when exposed to the elements. Whether you live near the coast in Wilmington, in the mountains around Asheville, or in the Piedmont region, Trex® is built to handle the environment.
7. Safety for Families and Pets
Trex® boards are splinter-free, slip-resistant, and smooth underfoot. That makes them safer for children, pets, and anyone who enjoys walking barefoot outdoors.
With wood decks, splinters, warped boards, and loose nails are a constant concern. Trex® eliminates these risks, giving families peace of mind that their deck is both comfortable and secure.
8. Strong Warranty Protection
One of the most overlooked benefits of Trex® decking is the warranty coverage. Depending on the product line, you’re protected for 25, 35, or 50 years. This covers issues like fading, staining, and structural defects.
Wood decks, by contrast, come with no warranty at all. If a wood board warps or rots, replacement costs fall entirely on the homeowner. With Trex® and professional installation by CPS Construction Services, you’re investing in a deck with built-in long-term protection.
9. Increases Home Value
Outdoor living spaces are among the most desired home features in today’s market. A professionally installed Trex® deck not only adds usable space but also increases your property’s resale value.
Because buyers know Trex® decks are low-maintenance and long-lasting, they see them as a premium feature. Whether you plan to stay in your home for decades or sell in a few years, Trex® composite decking is a value-boosting investment.
10. Professional Installation with CPS Construction Services
While some homeowners consider DIY deck projects, installing Trex® decking requires experience and attention to detail. Mistakes like incorrect ledger board attachment or improper joist spacing can compromise safety and void warranties.
At CPS Construction Services, we handle the entire process from design to permitting to installation. Our decks are built to North Carolina building codes, ensuring structural integrity, safety, and compliance. With our team, you’ll enjoy a stress-free installation and a finished product that stands the test of time.
FAQs About Trex® Composite Decking
Trex can last 25 to 50 years depending on the product line, far longer than traditional wood.
No staining or sealing is needed. Simple cleaning with soap and water is all it takes.
Installed cost ranges from $30–$80 per square foot depending on the line and design.
Trex boards are fade-resistant. Some initial weathering occurs but stabilizes quickly.
Only if the substructure is sound and meets code. Otherwise, a new frame is recommended.
Yes. Most attached or elevated decks require permits. CPS Construction Services handles this for you.
Yes. Trex® boards are splinter-free, slip-resistant, and comfortable underfoot.
At CPS Construction Services, we’re proud to specialize in Trex® deck installation. Our team delivers expert craftsmanship, code-compliant builds, and customized designs tailored to your home. If you want a deck that adds long-term value, style, and performance, Trex® composite decking is the smarter choice.
📞 Contact CPS Construction Services today to schedule your free consultation and start planning the outdoor living space you’ve always wanted.
