You know that saying, “Everything’s bigger in Texas”? Well, that includes a lot more than just steaks and pickup trucks; it includes the desire for outdoor living spaces. And if you’ve been thinking about a deck that stands up to our hot summers, occasional hailstorms, and relentless UV, you’ve probably come across Trex composite decking.
We’ve been building outdoor living spaces across Texas for years, and decking is one of the areas we specialize in. Our goal is to walk you through everything you need to know, including performance, aesthetics, cost, and curb appeal, so you can feel 100% confident in choosing the right decking for your home.
How Trex Performs in Texas Homes
Texas weather puts any deck material to the test. We’ve seen it firsthand. From blazing UV rays in the summer to sudden cold snaps in winter and even the occasional hailstorm, this climate is harsh.
Traditional wood decks often don’t stand a chance. We’ve replaced more warped cedar and cracked pine than we can count. That’s why Trex has become one of our top recommendations, especially for clients who want long-term durability without the constant upkeep.
Here’s how Trex performs in the field, based on what we’ve seen across dozens of installs:
UV and fade resistance
The protective shell on Trex boards really holds up. We’ve revisited projects 3 to 5 years later and the color still looks solid. It doesn’t wash out the way unstained wood typically does after a couple of Texas summers.
Water and moisture resilience
In humid parts of North Texas or after heavy rainstorms around Dallas and Collin County, Trex resists mold and mildew better than any wood we’ve worked with. Homeowners love that it stays looking clean with very little maintenance.
Tough enough for real life
Whether it’s backyard BBQs, kids running wild, or dogs doing laps on the deck, Trex takes the beating. It doesn’t splinter or dent easily. We’ve seen it hold up surprisingly well in high-traffic setups.
Low maintenance freedom
The biggest reason homeowners thank us is the low upkeep. They don’t have to stain or seal it every year. Just a quick wash with soap and water and it’s good to go. That’s a huge win for busy families who just want to enjoy their space.
Design flexibility and curb appeal
Trex offers a range of styles, finishes, and board widths that we’ve used in both modern homes and rustic ranches. It works equally well for second-story decks, wraparound porches, and poolside platforms. The finish looks polished, especially when we install it with hidden fasteners for a clean look.
Not for every budget, but worth it long term
We’re always transparent that Trex is more expensive than standard wood options upfront. But in our experience, clients who plan to stay in their homes for the long haul usually save in the long run. Less time spent on repairs and no annual staining.
A Look Homeowners Actually Want
One thing we’ve noticed is that clients are often surprised by how realistic Trex looks. It doesn’t have the plasticky feel of older composites. The textured, wood-grain finish closely mimics real hardwood and adds a high-end look to outdoor spaces.
We’ve installed it on both modern patios and traditional homes, and it always blends in nicely with the home’s architecture. Plus, the color holds strong even in the heat, which means the deck stays looking sharp for years.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing Trex
Trex offers a lot of long-term benefits, but there are a few important things to keep in mind before moving forward with a project.
- Budget and long-term value. Trex costs more upfront than pressure-treated pine, usually about two to three times more. But with a lifespan of up to 20 years and virtually no maintenance, many homeowners save money over time by avoiding the need for staining, sealing, or replacing warped boards.
- Framing and substructure. Trex performs best when installed on pressure-treated or composite-friendly framing. In humid areas, we always recommend stainless steel fasteners and hidden clips to prevent rust and long-term corrosion.
- Proper installation matters. Good ventilation under the deck is essential to prevent trapped moisture and heat buildup. Following Trex’s install guidelines not only ensures performance but also keeps the warranty valid, which can range from 15 to 50 years depending on the product line.
- Local code and HOA considerations. Some municipalities and HOAs, including parts of Dallas and surrounding suburbs, have fire-rating rules for decks built near fences, brush, or property lines. Trex does offer fire-rated options, so it’s worth checking your local building code or HOA guidelines before starting.
Trex Product Lines We Recommend
Trex offers several product lines, and we’ve worked with most of them. Here’s what you need to know when comparing them for your project:
- Trex Transcend®. The premium line. Deep colors, detailed wood grain, and a 50-year fade and stain warranty. We recommend this for clients who want maximum curb appeal and longevity.
- Trex Select®. A balanced option with a more subtle grain finish. Comes with a 25-year warranty and works well for most mid-range builds.
- Trex Enhance® (Naturals & Basics). “Naturals” has a more wood-like appearance. “Basics” has a simpler, solid-color look at a lower cost. Both hold a 25-year warranty and are great for budget-conscious builds.
- Trex Transcend® Lineage® (new). This is the latest upgrade in the Transcend family. It offers cooler surface tech and lighter, more modern colors. We’ve used it on a few recent builds, and so far, homeowners have loved the clean finish and lower surface heat.
Cost Breakdown for Texas Homeowners
While individual jobs vary, here’s a rough estimate based on past installations:
| Component | Wood | Trex Select | Trex Transcend |
| Material cost per sq ft | $2 – $4 | $7 – $10 | $11 – $15 |
| Labor | $8 – $12 | $9 – $13 | $10 – $15 |
| 20-year maintenance cost | $1,500+ | Minimal | Minimal |
| Total 20-year expense (est.) | $12,000 | $15,000 | $18,000–$20,000 |
You can see Trex pays its weight in long-term performance. No re-staining, no splinter repairs, no disappointed guests.
What Trex Could Improve (Builder’s Take)
While Trex performs well overall, there are a few considerations we point out to clients before installation:
Scratching on darker finishes
While it’s very durable, surface scratches can still show up. Especially on darker colors and if heavy furniture is dragged. We recommend using protective pads on furniture legs to help reduce this risk.
Heat retention
Like most composites, Trex can get hot under direct sunlight, especially the darker colors. If your deck gets full sun in the afternoon, we often recommend lighter tones or adding some shade structure to help with comfort.
Less flexibility for curved layouts
Trex doesn’t bend easily without special tools and heating equipment. For most square or rectangular decks, it’s not an issue. But for curved designs or wraparound steps, it may require extra planning or a different product line.
FAQ: Trex Decking Expectations in Texas
What’s the typical lifespan of a Trex deck in Texas?
In our experience, Trex decks hold up well for 25 to 50 years, depending on the product line. Select and Enhance generally last 25 years with minimal maintenance, while Transcend can go up to 50 years with fade and stain resistance included.
Does Trex get hot under the Texas sun?
Yes, like most decking materials, Trex will warm up in full sun. Darker colors retain more heat, while lighter shades stay a bit cooler. For decks with full afternoon exposure, we usually recommend lighter tones or adding shade structures to improve comfort.
Can I build a pergola or covered area over a Trex deck?
Yes. We’ve built plenty of covered structures over Trex decking, including pergolas, patio roofs, and screened rooms. The material holds up well under shade and doesn’t suffer from the moisture issues you’d typically see with untreated wood.
How much maintenance does a Trex deck require?
Not much. A quick rinse with soap and water a few times a year is usually enough to keep it clean. There’s no need to stain, seal, or sand it like traditional wood.
What does a Trex deck typically cost in Texas?
Costs vary based on size, layout, and add-ons like railings or lighting. On average, installed pricing falls between $15 and $20 per square foot, depending on the product line. We offer consultations to provide more accurate estimates based on your specific design.
Let’s Build a Deck Built for Texas
Trex decking offers long-term durability, low maintenance, and the kind of curb appeal that holds up through Texas heat, storms, and time. But even the best materials need the right hands behind them.
With years of experience building decks across Dallas, Collin County, and surrounding areas, our team knows how to deliver lasting results. From proper installation and ventilation to local code compliance.
If you’re ready to build or upgrade your outdoor space with a composite deck that’s made to perform, reach us out or call us at . We’ll help you plan and build a deck that adds value, looks great, and stands strong for decades.