When it comes to selecting composite decking materials, there are various choices available to you. Your intended usage of the deck should help determine the optimal choice.
Consideration must also be given to the types of fasteners used, since using incorrect screws could void your warranty.
Cost
Trex and TimberTech decking materials are two of the most sought-after options when it comes to composite decking, offering various colors and durability options. But each brand differs significantly; it is important to understand their differences as Trex’s product lines use different fasteners than TimberTech products, which could cause their material to fail voiding any warranty agreements that might exist between them.
Both brands of decking offer an assortment of colors and styles at various price points, using recycled materials. TimberTech stands out by having more durable composite core than Trex boards; furthermore, TimberTech boards are fully capped on all sides while Trex only applies protective plastic coating on three.
TimberTech capped boards offer increased moisture resistance due to being coated all four sides with polyurethane coating, which enables water drainage and mold/mildew resistance. While both decking options are tough materials, both can still be susceptible to scratches – even tough materials like composite decking.
Install your deck correctly to avoid damage; using inappropriate fasteners may void warranties; it is advisable to choose screws compatible with your deck material to minimize potential rust issues that could reduce its lifespan over time. Likewise, make sure that test it in an outdoor environment before installing your decking – testing out its performance is important!
Durability
Timbertech and Trex produce composite decking that is exceptionally long-wearing compared to wooden home decks, enduring both hot summer sun and freezing winter temperatures without warping, cracking or warping easily. Plus, both products feature insect-resistance for savings down the line on repairs due to pest infestation.
Both manufacturers use protective polymer coatings on their composite boards to guard them from scratches and environmental damage, as well as fade resistance and stain protection, making these decking materials ideal for those seeking low maintenance requirements.
While protective coatings cannot completely avoid scratches caused by pet feet, furniture, weather or simply use, it’s important to always test durability prior to buying anything for your home and determine just how scratch-resistant any material truly is.
Both Trex and Timbertech provide fade and stain warranties for their capped composite products, although their warranties vary slightly in specifics; Trex’s decking comes with a 25-year fade/stain warranty while Timbertech’s is good for 30. Both companies boast outstanding warranties as well as quality offerings; thus it would be wise to give both companies careful consideration when searching for solutions for your home.
Eco-friendliness
For an eco-friendly and rot-resistant deck, composite material may be your best bet. Easy maintenance makes this option great choice; no staining or refinishing needs to be performed annually and its impervious to water. However, Trex or Timbertech composite decking might seem pricey at first.
TimberTech decking options provide a diverse selection of decking choices; their suitability for different applications depends on their environment. TimberTech emphasizes sustainability during its production process and its materials have been designed to withstand moisture, making them suitable for areas with high moisture levels, such as near water features.
Trex is committed to minimizing its environmental footprint by using recycled materials and operating with a sustainable business model. Their manufacturing processes avoid smokestack emissions while recycling its waste for use in new products; additionally, Trex uses an advanced water recirculation system which recycles up to 98% of their wastewater back into production processes and they never use harmful chemicals in their production processes.
Timbertech takes sustainability seriously by employing 80% recycled plastics and wood fibers in its composite lumber manufacturing processes. Its core is composed of #2-#5 plastic bags mixed with wood shavings while all four sides or three of four sides may be covered in polymer; similar to Trex products the bottom remains open.
Installation
Your decision between Timbertech and Trex will depend on personal priorities such as style, durability, eco-friendliness and cost. Both brands provide an extensive selection of composite decking options; each brand boasts distinct advantages and drawbacks – Timbertech for instance has a higher warranty coverage rate than Trex but costs more as a result.
Both brands utilize recycled materials when crafting their decking. Trex utilizes a blend of #2, #4, #5, and #9 plastics along with wood fibers; its decking is capped on three sides; Timbertech employs four protective coatings on their boards in order to keep moisture out and prevent mold and mildew growth. Both brands share similarities such as their color options as well as screwless installation features.
Timbertech and Trex can both be stained or painted to give your deck an original, custom look. Staining can help protect the composite material from rain and snowfall; just be sure to use walking-surface grade stain. Misusing another type could damage it. Also be sure to follow manufacturer installation guidelines; otherwise it could void your warranty; only use fasteners approved by them as other types could potentially damage or void them altogether.
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