When looking at composite decking options, people are often faced with two main brand choices: TimberTech vs Trex Decking. The purpose of this blog is to tell all about TimberTech versus Trex and allow you to have an easier time making a decision about your choice of deck materials for your deck replacement project. At Harmony Home Improvement, we make it a goal for your outdoor space to be something you are proud of that you can enjoy all spring and summer. A new deck is an excellent place to start!
History of TimberTech and Trex
Trex was the original inventor of the composite decking board in 1996. They were the first to explore an alternative to wood decking. Using plastic that would have otherwise gone to landfills, Trex made a composite decking board that would withstand the test of time and elements.
TimberTech came into the composite decking market in 1997. At the time, they only had one decking board color. Through large-scale innovation and growth, TimberTech has become a leader in the composite decking world. They now have a wide range of colors in their lineup including black, browns, and grays.
Material and Capping: TimberTech versus Trex
The inside of the decking boards is made of a mix of plastics and recycled wood fibers such as sawdust, ground-up wood, recycled plastics from milk jugs, and grocery bags. The biggest difference between the two composite decking companies is the way the boards are capped externally.
The polymer capping on the boards are made with a durable plastic shell that is protective, and mold, stain, and fade resistant. This layer of plastic extends the life of the composite decking boards but TimberTech and Trex have different philosophies on how to cap the boards.
TimberTech’s polymer cap goes all the way around the boards while Trex’s polymer caps only cover the top of the boards. Trex designed their polymer caps to only cover the top so that the boards can breathe and expel any moisture that gets in. TimberTech’s reasoning behind the full-coverage polymer cap is to seal out the moisture completely.
Composite Decking vs Traditional Wood Decking
Compared to traditional wood decking, TimberTech and Trex composite decking is more durable and will withstand the test of time. As with all things exposed to the outdoors, minor fading is to be expected in the first three to four months of an install. However, after that, the color will remain consistent throughout the deck’s lifespan. Both of these composite decking brands are very low maintenance and eco-friendly in contrast to standard wood decking.
Additionally, TimberTech and Trex composite decking materials are often much heavier than standard wood decking due to their compact nature. This can make it more challenging to transport and install and also deter homeowners from installing their decks higher up. This can also make homeowners be adverse to choosing composite decking options. You can avoid dealing with these issues by hiring a deck professional at Harmony Home Improvement for your next decking project!
Deck Replacement Services in Connecticut
TimberTech and Trex have come a long way since they first came around in the 90s. Both of these products have proven to be more low maintenance, weather-resistant, and scratch-resistant compared to real wood deck options.
At Harmony Home Improvement, we are proud to be able to offer our customers both of these brands for their next deck replacement project in Connecticut. Our skilled deck professionals have been working with these products for years and are ready for any of your decking needs. If you’d like more information, contact us today to get an estimate for your next deck project!
