Trex Decking Pros and Cons (2025 Guide for Homeowners)
- Warner's Decking, Inc.
- Apr 20, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago

If you're planning to build a new outdoor space, one question probably comes to mind: Is Trex worth it? With so many decking materials available today, it can be hard to know which option is best for your home. In this guide, we’ll go over the main pros and cons of Trex decking. You’ll learn about cost, durability, eco-friendliness, and style - so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your next deck.
What Is Trex Decking?
Trex is a leading brand of composite decking, made from a blend of recycled materials like reclaimed wood and plastic film. A popular alternative to natural wood because it looks great, lasts longer, high quality, and requires far less maintenance.
Trex offers several new product line collections, including Trex Enhance, Trex Select, Trex Signature and Trex Transcend. Each one comes with its own features and price range, and Trex builds them all to stand up to fading, stains, mold, and insect damage.
Pros of Trex Decking

1. Low Maintenance Costs
One of the biggest benefits of Trex is how little effort it takes to keep your deck looking great. Unlike a wooden deck, you don’t need to seal, stain, or paint it. A quick rinse or pressure wash is usually enough to remove dirt and debris. That means you save time, money, and effort every year.
Trex also resists issues like cracking, warping, or splintering, so you spend less time on repairs. These savings add over the years, making Trex a practical, low-maintenance solution.
2. Durable and Long-Lasting
Trex decking is built to last. It holds up well in all kinds of weather—rain, snow, heat, and humidity. It also resists insect damage, mold, mildew, and fading. Many homeowners get over 25 years of use from their Trex deck, especially when installed correctly by a professional.
Trex builds its boards tough, so they hold their shape and strength for years. That makes it a great choice for active families and anyone who loves entertaining outside.
3. Eco-Friendly Choice
Trex is one of the most environmentally friendly decking options on the market. Trex uses 95% recycled materials to make its decking, keeping things eco-friendly. Each year, Trex repurposes over 400 million pounds of waste plastic and wood.
To go green without sacrificing performance or style, Trex is a solid choice. It gives you the beauty of a natural wood deck without cutting down trees.
4. Beautiful Design Options
Trex offers a wide range of composite decking boards with different colors, textures, and finishes. Their composite decking offers something for every style and budget. Whether you're going for the look of natural wood or something more modern, Trex has a style to match.
Trex Enhance collections look like real wood but cost less. They’re great for homeowners who want style and savings. You can also mix and match boards to create custom inlays, patterns, or borders for a one-of-a-kind design.
5. Adds Long-Term Value
When asking, “Is Trex worth it?”, the answer often comes down to Trex investment value. Trex costs more upfront, but its long life and low upkeep save you money in the long run. You won’t be spending hundreds each year on stains, sealers, or replacement boards like you would with wood.
Many homeowners also find that a Trex composite decking improves resale value. Buyers love outdoor features that don’t require much work. If you're thinking long-term, Trex is a smart investment.
Cons of Trex Decking

1. Trex Decking Cost vs Wood: Higher Upfront Cost
Compared to traditional wood decking, Trex decking usually costs more upfront. For some homeowners, that initial sticker shock is hard to overlook. But it’s important to consider the bigger picture. If you plan to stay in your home long term, Trex may actually cost less over time thanks to fewer repairs and lower upkeep.
Trex doesn’t need painting or staining, so your long-term costs are easier to predict than with wood.
2. Not All Contractors Are Experienced with Trex
Trex may look like wood, but it installs differently. Not all contractors have the right tools or experience to handle composite decking correctly. A poor install can lead to issues like uneven boards, fastener problems, or even voided warranties.
That’s why hiring a TrexPro® Platinum Contractor—like Warner’s Decking—is key to getting the job done right the first time. We specialize in Trex and know how to get the most out of this premium product.
Trex Decking vs Wood: Cost & Performance
Here’s a quick comparison of Trex vs wood decking to help visualize the pros and cons:
Feature | Trex Composite Decking | Pressure-Treated Wood |
Upfront Cost | Higher | Lower |
Maintenance Needs | Very Low | High (staining/sealing) |
Lifespan | 25–30+ years | 10–15 years |
Resistance to Insects | Yes | No |
Resists Warping/Cracking | Yes | No |
Eco-Friendly Materials | 95% recycled | No |
Design & Color Options | Wide range | Limited |
Adds Resale Value | High | Moderate |
Traditional wood might cost less upfront, but Trex offers better value with lower maintenance, longer life, and greater durability.
Final Thoughts: Trex Decking Review

Composite decking pros and cons, Trex clearly offers long-term advantages. It requires far less work than wood, lasts longer, and holds up better in all kinds of weather. Trex costs more at first, but it’s worth it for a deck that looks good and lasts a long time.
Trex also stands out as an eco-friendly option made from recycled materials. For homeowners looking to combine beauty, performance, and sustainability, Trex is one of the best options available today.
Why Choose Warner’s Decking?
We don't just build decks at Warner’s Decking—we’re certified TrexPro® Platinum Contractors. Trex trains and certifies us to install their products to the highest standards. Whether you're updating your deck or starting from scratch, we’ll design a space that fits your needs, stays on budget, and holds up for years.
We help homeowners in Naperville, Plainfield, St. Charles, and the Chicagoland area with expert composite decking services. Our team specializes in Trex composite decking installation, repairs, and custom designs.
Ready to Build Your Dream Outdoor Deck?
If you’re ready to explore the decking products Trex has to offer, get a free quote from Warner's Decking. We’ll help you pick the best options, explain your choices, and build a great outdoor space that adds value and style to your home.