When it comes to enhancing your outdoor living area, few things can match the beauty and durability of a composite deck. Trex Composite Decking, particularly the Trex Transcend series, offers an exceptional solution for homeowners seeking a long-lasting, low-maintenance deck. This blog will delve into the features, installation process, and benefits of using Trex decking, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make an informed choice.
What is Trex Composite Decking?
Trex Composite Decking is a premium decking material made from a blend of reclaimed wood and plastic. Trex Transcend, in particular, is designed with the DIY enthusiast in mind. It boasts a remarkable fifty-year warranty for domestic use, making it a reliable choice for any outdoor project.
One of the standout features of Trex decking is its eco-friendliness. Composed of 95% recycled materials, it not only enhances your home but also contributes positively to the environment. Choosing Trex means you can enjoy your outdoor space while knowing you're making a sustainable choice.
Advantages of Trex Composite Decking
Trex Composite Decking offers numerous advantages over traditional timber. Here are some key benefits:
- Durability: Trex is rot-free and resistant to warping, making it ideal for areas exposed to moisture, such as poolside.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike timber, Trex does not require sanding, staining, or sealing, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your deck.
- Variety of Styles: Trex offers a wide range of colors and styles to suit any aesthetic, ensuring your deck complements your home perfectly.
- Easy Installation: Designed for DIY installation, Trex makes it easy for homeowners to create their dream deck.
Preparing for Installation
Before you begin your Trex deck installation, it’s essential to prepare adequately. Start by ensuring you have all the necessary components, which include:
- Traditional grooved boards for concealed fixings
- Starter boards or breaker boards with square edges
- Fascia boards for finishing edges
- Trex Protect tape for joist protection
Safety First
Safety is paramount when undertaking any home improvement project. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Wear gloves and safety glasses when using power tools.
- Use a dust mask when cutting materials to protect against inhalation of dust.
- Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect against sun exposure while working outdoors.
Replacing an Old Deck with Trex
In this project, we will replace an old timber deck with Trex. The first step involves assessing the existing structure. It's vital to inspect and replace any damaged joists before laying down the new decking.
Once the old deck is removed, apply Trex Protect tape on top of the joists. This self-adhesive tape is crucial for preventing moisture damage and prolonging the life of your deck.
Installing the Trex Deck Boards
With the joists prepared, it's time to install the Trex boards. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Measure Twice: Always measure carefully to ensure accurate cuts and placements.
- Install Starter Boards: Begin with the starter board, ensuring screws are placed at least 30 millimeters from the ends of the joists.
- Maintain Gaps: When butting joints, maintain a minimum of a 3mm gap using spacers for proper ventilation and expansion.
- Use Retaining Clips: Secure the edge boards with retaining clips and screws to keep everything in place.
- Finish with Fascia Boards: Install fascia boards around the perimeter of the deck for a clean finish.
Final Touches and Benefits
Once all boards are installed, it’s time to admire your work. The Trex Transcend deck not only looks stunning but also requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional wood decks. Homeowners can enjoy their outdoor area without the hassles of regular upkeep.
The Trex Transcend series is available in various colors, allowing you to choose the perfect shade to match your home’s exterior. The Island Mist color, for instance, offers a beautiful, tropical look that enhances any outdoor space.
Why Choose Stratco for Your Decking Needs?
At Stratco, we provide a comprehensive selection of Trex decking options, including the Transcend tropical and lineage ranges. Our selection center features samples for you to take home, ensuring you can find the perfect color for your deck.
Whether you're looking to build your deck from scratch or need assistance with design, our Stratco Pro-Beam® system can help you create a sturdy subframe. We also supply all the necessary fixings, fasteners, and protective joist tape to streamline your installation process.
Trex Composite Decking offers a sustainable, stylish, and low-maintenance decking solution. With its numerous benefits and ease of installation, it’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor living space.
Visit us in-store for more information, or request a free quote for your project today!
