Trex’s Best Mid-Tier Boards Just Got a Color Upgrade—See What’s New!
- Warner's Decking, Inc.
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
Homeowners planning a deck upgrade in 2025 will have a few more options to consider — three to be exact. Trex Company has expanded its Trex Select collection with the introduction of Malted Barley, Millstone, and Whiskey Barrel, a set of new mid-range composite decking colors designed to meet current style preferences while offering enhanced comfort and durability.
These additions come at a time when interest in wood-alternative materials continues to grow across the Midwest, particularly in areas like the Chicagoland, where extreme weather significantly impacts the lifespan of outdoor structures. With a refreshed color palette and built-in heat-reflective technology, the updated Select line aims to provide a reliable middle ground between Trex’s entry-level and premium collections.
Backed by a 35-year limited residential warranty and made from up to 95% recycled content, the new boards maintain the practical benefits that define the Trex brand, only now with a more refined look and improved surface temperature performance.
A Closer Look at the New Trex Select® Colors
The Trex Select line is a long-time dependable option for homeowners seeking a composite deck without the premium price tag. With the addition of three new colors for 2025, the Select line is offering customers a timely update of design preferences to brave the coming summer.
Malted Barley
Malted Barley is a warm, neutral shade with light grey undertones. It leans earthy but remains soft, making it a suitable choice for homeowners who prefer a natural color palette that still appears clean and modern.
Millstone
Millstone offers a cooler take with a weathered grey finish. The color is subtle, neither overly bright nor overly dark, and evokes the appearance of aged wood. It’s a practical choice for homeowners who want a timeworn appearance without the hassle of actual wear and tear.
Whiskey Barrel
The Whiskey Barrel is the deepest of the three, with a rich brown hue and light streaks that add dimension without appearing artificial. It’s designed to appeal to those who prefer a classic, wood-toned look while still enjoying the low-maintenance benefits of composite materials.
Each board features refined embossing and a new grain pattern that adds depth to the surface without making it overly textured. The result is a clean, consistent look that holds up well across complete deck layouts.
New SunComfortable™ IR Technology: Stay Cooler, Longer
One of the most notable updates to the Trex Select line isn’t just the color—it’s what’s built into the board. All three of the new colors feature SunComfortable™ Infrared (IR) Reflective Technology, a surface innovation designed to reduce heat retention on sunny days.
It’s the first time Trex has added its heat-mitigating shell to a board in the mid-tier category. With sun-reflecting infrared rays, these new boards can stay cooler to the touch compared to other composite boards of similar color. Chicagolanders can continue activities where summer decks in direct sunlight can become uncomfortably hot underfoot by midday.
Despite varying sun exposure, shade, and climate conditions, IR Technology boards provide a notable improvement in user comfort, particularly on barefoot days or around poolside installations.
Board Construction, Compatibility, and Installation Details
The new Trex Select boards maintain the same solid profile as the rest of the collection, offering durability and structural integrity suited for residential and light commercial use. This full-profile design also allows for custom curve designs — a feature typically reserved for higher-end product lines. You’ll need a certified Trex bending specialist for clean curvy projects.
Boards are available in 12', 16', and 20' lengths, and are compatible with the Trex Hideaway® Hidden Fastener system, which means homeowners can expect a clean, uninterrupted surface without visible screws or nails. This installation method also supports long-term performance by minimizing opportunities for moisture intrusion at fastening points.
For builders, the installation process remains straightforward, with tools and techniques familiar to most professionals already working with Trex products. It, in turn, translates into faster installations and fewer complications for homeowners.
These new boards are also W.U.I. (Wildland Urban Interface) Compliant and rated for submersible applications. They are also useful for projects where fire performance or water exposure are concerns homeowners may face.
Why These Updates Matter for Chicagoland Homes
Composite decking has been gaining traction across Chicagoland for years, primarily due to its ability to withstand the region’s unpredictable climate. Between freeze-thaw cycles in winter, heavy spring rains, and high summer heat, traditional wood decks can break down quickly without constant upkeep. The newest additions to the Trex Select line address several of these concerns directly.
Improved Heat Resistance for Barefoot Use
Decks that face south or west in our region can get especially hot in the summer. With the addition of SunComfortable™ IR technology, these boards reflect more of the sun’s heat, making them more usable during peak daylight hours—especially important for families with kids, pets, or pool decks.
Better Long-Term Value in Harsh Conditions
Moisture resistance, fade protection, and scratch durability are all built into the surface of Trex Select boards. That matters when snow sits on your deck for weeks, or when spring thaws lead to standing water in shaded corners. These boards won’t rot, warp, or split, making them a reliable long-term choice for homeowners who prefer not to undergo seasonal repairs.
Low Maintenance All Year
Unlike wood, these new boards won’t need annual sealing or staining. A basic wash with soap and water keeps them looking clean, even after accumulation of winter’s worth of salt and debris. That means more time enjoying your deck and less time working on it.
Ready to Build with the New Trex Select Colors?
The 2025 additions to the Trex Select® line—Malted Barley, Millstone, and Whiskey Barrel—are now available to homeowners across Chicagoland. These new color options offer increased design flexibility, enhanced comfort in full sun, and the same long-term performance that Trex is known for.
At Warner’s Decking, we help homeowners plan and build custom composite decks that match their space, style, and budget. Whether you're starting from scratch or replacing an older structure, our team manages every detail—from layout and permitting to installation and finishing. We help clients source boards through Premium Decking Supply, a trusted Trex distributor for the Chicagoland area.
📍 Serving Naperville, Aurora, Plainfield, Wheaton, and surrounding suburbs📞 Call (630) 420-1940 or request a consultation online to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the new Trex Select colors available now?
Yes. Malted Barley, Millstone, and Whiskey Barrel are now available for order in the Midwest, including the greater Chicagoland area. Warner’s Decking installs these colors for homeowners looking to start a new project or replace an existing wood deck. Boards are distributed through Premium Decking Supply.
What’s different about these new colors compared to existing Trex Select boards?
In addition to new, on-trend shades, these colors feature an updated surface grain with subtle streaking and more refined embossing. They also include SunComfortable™ IR Technology, which helps reflect heat from sunlight and keeps the surface cooler than previous models of a similar tone.
Do these new boards cost more than other Trex Select options?
While pricing may vary slightly depending on the supplier and availability, the new colors remain part of Trex’s mid-tier Select line. They offer more advanced features than entry-level boards while staying below the cost of premium options, such as Trex Transcend.
Can I mix these colors with other Trex products, like railings or fascia?
Yes. Trex Select boards are compatible with a wide range of Trex railing systems and fascia boards. Warner’s Decking can help you design a layout that matches or contrasts colors to fit your home’s exterior and landscape. Call us at (630) 420-1940 for further enquiries.
Is the installation different for these new boards?
No. These boards are installed using the same methods as other Trex products and are fully compatible with the Trex Hideaway® Hidden Fastener system. Entrust the installation project to only licensed and reviewed Trex builders. Trust Warner’s Decking to transform your outdoor living space with Trex Select using manufacturer-approved techniques to ensure your warranty remains valid.
How do I maintain a deck built with Trex Select?
Maintenance is minimal. Trex Select boards don’t require staining, sealing, or sanding. Cleaning typically involves soap, water, and a soft brush. The boards are also resistant to mold, scratches, and fading, making them well-suited to the seasonal extremes of northern Illinois.
