If you’re a North Carolina homeowner thinking about adding or upgrading your outdoor space, the big question often comes down to this: Trex composite decking or traditional wood decking?
On the surface, wood seems cheaper and “classic,” while Trex® composite looks like a bigger upfront investment. But when you look closer at the numbers: cost, maintenance, and lifespan, the story changes.
This guide breaks down the real differences between Trex® composite decking and wood decking so you can make the best decision for your backyard, your budget, and your peace of mind.
What Is Trex Composite Decking?
Trex® is the #1 brand in composite decking, made from 95% recycled wood fibers and plastic film. Unlike traditional wood, Trex® won’t rot, warp, or splinter, and it doesn’t need staining or sealing. With lines like Trex Enhance®, Select®, and Transcend®, there’s a product for every budget and style.
Composite decking is designed for low maintenance, long-lasting performance, which is why so many homeowners are switching from wood.
What Is Wood Decking?
Wood decking, typically made from pressure-treated pine, cedar, or tropical hardwoods, has been the go-to choice for decades. It’s affordable upfront and offers a natural look. But here’s the catch: wood requires regular upkeep: staining, sealing, and repairs, to stay safe and attractive in North Carolina’s hot, humid climate.
Cost Comparison: Trex Composite vs. Wood
Wood Decking Costs
- Materials: $2–$5 per sq ft (pressure-treated pine)
- Installed: $15–$25 per sq ft
- Maintenance Costs: $300–$1,500 every few years for sealing, staining, and board replacement
Trex® Composite Decking Costs
- Materials: $12–$22 per sq ft (depending on line)
- Installed: $30–$80 per sq ft
- Maintenance Costs: Almost zero—just soap and water cleaning
Example: A 12×20 deck (240 sq ft):
- Wood: $4,000–$6,000 upfront, plus ongoing maintenance
- Trex® Composite: $7,200–$15,000 upfront, but minimal upkeep for decades
Over 20 years, Trex® often ends up cheaper than wood when you factor in repairs, sealing, and replacement.
Lifespan Comparison
- Wood Decking Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper maintenance. In humid climates like North Carolina, wood can rot faster without consistent sealing.
- Trex® Composite Decking Lifespan: 25–50 years depending on the product line. Backed by manufacturer warranties (25–50 years).
The Verdict: Trex® lasts 2–3 times longer than wood with a fraction of the upkeep.
Maintenance: Trex vs. Wood
Wood Deck Maintenance:
- Must be stained and sealed every 1–3 years
- Needs regular cleaning to prevent mold, mildew, and insect damage
- Boards can warp, splinter, or rot, requiring replacement
Trex® Composite Decking Maintenance:
- Just rinse with soap and water a few times a year
- No sanding, staining, or sealing required
- Boards resist fading, scratching, and insect damage
If you want a “build it and forget it” deck, Trex® composite is the clear winner.
Trex Product Lines
Trex Enhance® – Affordable & Practical
Trex Enhance® is the entry-level line, designed for homeowners who want the durability of composite decking without stretching their budget. It’s lightweight, easy to install, and available in classic colors that complement any home style. Enhance® resists fading, staining, and mold far better than traditional wood, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious families. Backed by a 25-year limited warranty, it provides long-term peace of mind.
Trex Select® – Balanced Performance & Style
Trex Select® offers a step up in both appearance and performance. With a wider selection of colors and deeper wood-grain textures, it adds a touch of style while maintaining low-maintenance convenience. Select® is durable, stain-resistant, and fade-resistant, which makes it ideal for busy households that want an attractive deck without the hassle of constant upkeep. This line carries a 35-year limited warranty, giving you confidence in your investment.
Trex Transcend® – Premium Luxury & Longest Life
Trex Transcend® is the premium decking line, crafted for homeowners who want the ultimate in beauty, durability, and longevity. Known for its rich, multi-tonal colors and authentic wood-grain looks, Transcend® delivers a luxury finish that rivals exotic hardwoods without the upkeep. It’s engineered for maximum resistance against fading, scratching, and staining, making it perfect for high-traffic outdoor spaces. With an industry-leading 50-year limited warranty, it’s built to be the last deck you’ll ever need.
Eco-Friendly Benefits of Trex
Trex isn’t just about performance,it’s also about sustainability. Each year, Trex® keeps more than 500 million pounds of plastic film and reclaimed wood fibers out of landfills by recycling them into durable decking materials. Plastic bags, film wrap, and reclaimed sawdust are all transformed into the Trex® boards you see on today’s decks.
This eco-friendly process not only reduces waste but also cuts down on the need for chemical treatments, stains, and sealants typically used on wood decks. For homeowners who care about reducing their carbon footprint while creating a beautiful outdoor living space, Trex® composite decking is the greener, smarter choice.
DIY vs Professional Deck Installation
Many homeowners are tempted to go the DIY route with wood decking because the upfront cost seems lower. On paper, it looks like you’re saving money but in reality, mistakes can be costly and even dangerous.
Common DIY Risks:
- Incorrect ledger board attachment – one of the leading causes of deck collapses.
- Improper joist spacing – results in sagging boards and unsafe walking surfaces.
- Untreated or non-rated fasteners – these corrode in North Carolina’s humid climate, causing structural failure.
- Skipping permits and inspections – can result in fines, insurance issues, and even forced deck removal.
- Underestimating tools and time – DIYers often don’t account for augers, saws, compaction tools, and weeks of labor.
Why Professional Deck Installation Makes Sense
When you hire professional Trex® deck builders, you get:
- Code Compliance – North Carolina requires decks to meet the 2018 IRC, including frost-depth footings, 36” guardrails, and corrosion-resistant fasteners. Pros handle all of this for you.
- Warranty Protection – Trex® decking comes with 25–50 year warranties, but only when installed to manufacturer specs. DIY mistakes can void coverage.
- Better Longevity – Professionally built composite decks last decades with minimal upkeep. A DIY wood deck might only last 8–12 years before needing major repairs.
- Custom Features – Professionals can add extras like lighting, built-in seating, and multi-level designs safely and efficiently.
- Peace of Mind – Knowing your deck is structurally sound, safe for family and guests, and backed by warranties is worth more than the short-term savings of DIY.
The Bottom Line: While you can attempt a DIY deck, the combination of structural risks, code requirements, and long-term costs makes professional installation the smarter choice especially with Trex® composite decking, where precision and compliance are key to unlocking decades of performance.
FAQs About Trex Composite Decking vs. Wood
Yes, upfront costs are higher, but Trex saves money long-term with minimal maintenance.
Trex lasts 25–50 years, while wood typically lasts 10–15 years with upkeep.
Only basic cleaning. No sealing, sanding, or staining needed.
No. Trex® is engineered to resist rot, mold, and insect damage.
High-quality Trex® products are fade-resistant. Some natural weathering may occur but stabilizes quickly.
Enhance® is budget-friendly, Select® balances style and value, and Transcend® offers premium looks with the longest life.
Wood requires staining or sealing every 1–3 years, plus regular board replacements.
Only if the frame is structurally sound and meets code. Most old frames need upgrading.
Yes. With its long lifespan, low maintenance, and eco-friendly materials, Trex® adds lasting value to any home.
When you compare Trex Composite Decking vs. Wood Decking in terms of cost, lifespan, and maintenance, the results speak for themselves:
- Wood is cheaper upfront but costs more in the long run.
- Trex® lasts 2–3 times longer with almost no maintenance.
- Trex® offers eco-friendly materials, strong warranties, and modern design options.
If you want a deck that adds value, beauty, and durability to your North Carolina home, CPS Construction Services is your trusted Trex deck builder. Our team delivers expert installation, code-compliant craftsmanship, and the peace of mind that comes with working with licensed professionals.
📞 Contact CPS Construction Services today to schedule your free consultation and discover how Trex composite decking can transform your outdoor living space.
