Trex and Azek are two of the most well-known brands in the composite decking industry. Both brands offer decking that mimics the look of wood but outperforms real wood in various aspects.
These options maintain their gorgeous appearance over time while mimicking the look, texture, and performance of wood decking without the problems of using natural wood.
The outdoor living landscape has been changed due to composite deckings such as Trex and Azek.
Composite decks have established themselves as a challenge due to their exceptional durability, ease of maintenance, structural stability, and resistance to rot.
This article will compare Azek and Trex to know which decking is right for you.
Azek vs. Trex – Price Comparison
Cost of Trex Decking
The price of Trex ranges from $40 to $70 for each board that is 16 feet long. Its price depends on its quality.
There are three unique varieties of Trex available.
Trex Select
Trex Select is the least expensive option. This Trex material has an outer shell that makes it resistant to mold and mildew.
Trex Enhance
This Trex material comes at a higher cost, but it is worth the additional investment because it is resistant to stains, mold, mildew, and fading. This is an excellent choice.
Trex Transcend
The Trex Transcend is the product that costs the most. It is unsusceptible to fade, stains, scratches, and growth of mold and mildew.
Since this Trex material is more costly than both the Select and Enhance products, it is one of the best investments you could make.
Cost of Azek Composite Decking
Azek is more expensive than Trex in most cases. A 16-foot board made of Azek can be purchased for $120 and $140. As it is more long-lasting than Trex, this is the reason that it is more costly.
Some varieties of Azek products are indeed more susceptible to scratching than Trex.
Trex vs Azek – Style Comparison
Trex has a much closer appearance to wood than Azek does. It does not mean that there is no resemblance between Azek and wood.
On the other hand, Trex is an excellent choice if you want your deck to look natural while still durable. The appearance of Azek will be significantly more synthetic. Trex has the same stylish look as treated wood.
The Azek harvest collection has an appealing and colored wood look and feels open and airy.
Trex vs. Azek – Durability Comparison
When considering how long composite decking will last, you need to consider more than just the cap. The cap protects the surface, but the most important is the content found within.
The core of Trex is constructed from 95% recycled materials. These materials include ground-up plastic, sawdust, and reclaimed wood. Trex is composed of a lot more natural components than Azek is.
On the other hand, Azek timber tech composite decking is made of PVC, which is not a natural material.
Plastics have a much longer lifespan and are resistant to several factors that can damage the natural core of Trex. Because of this resistance, Azek is firmly the winner in this competition.
Azek vs. Trex – Warranty Comparison
Both Azek and Trex provide limited warranties for residential use. They are competitors in the capped decking market.
You will find that their basic warranty protection is almost the same, except that Azek decks come with a fade and stain warranty that lasts for 50 years, whereas Trex coverage for all of their models lasts for up to 25 years.
These decking products come with strong warranties requiring manufacturers to repair or replace defective boards.
Pros and Cons of Azek Composite Decking
Advantages
Unaffected by Fungus
When it comes to the worsening of wood decking, water is the primary main cause, especially in the case of pools.
As Azek decks are made entirely of PVC, they are nearly waterproof and resistant to the growth of mold and fungi.
Mold will only be able to grow on the surface of the floorboards that are not properly maintained.
Insects are attracted to wood but are not interested in PVC material. There is no need to worry about carpenter bees, termites, or other wood-eating insects.
Withstand Dangerous Weather Conditions
With a reliable covering, your Azek decking will not deform or reduce in severe weather conditions.
Outstanding Effect Resistance
The surface of Azek decking is long-lasting and hides damage such as dents and scratches, making it an excellent choice for outdoor spaces.
Fade Resistant
Due to the absence of organic components, Azek decking will appear perfect in its entire service life. In addition, it includes a 50-year warranty against fading and stains.
Lightweight
Azek decking is easy to handle due to the absence of wood fibers. These are extremely lightweight because they are made of PVC.
Does Not Chip
In contrast to natural wood, the uniform and even nature of the material PVC clearly shows that it will not break, making it the perfect surface for barefoot walking, particularly for your children and even your animals.
Can be Reused
Even though it is simple to assemble, it is easy to take apart and move to another place. Since it can be moved, Azek decking is excellent for renters and people who move a lot.
Low Maintenance
Cleaning agents don’t damage the surface too much. Use a soft broom, and then power-hose the surface to remove debris that got stuck.
Clean tough stains on the surface with detergents that the manufacturer approves.
Wide-ranging Choices
You can combine any two colors to get various designs for synthetic decks with your desired outdoor appearance.
In addition, Azek decking colors come in various shades and fence styles to create a variety of aesthetics.
Cortex Compatible
Utilize the Cortex Hidden Fastening System to create a smooth surface. This synthetic deck surface includes deck screws, deck plugs, and a TORX tap drive system to protect your boards without exposing the fittings.
Disadvantages
VOC Content
In extreme heat, the chemicals in Azek decks can be released, resulting in a potential health hazard. Wear gloves and other protective tools during installation. Wash your hands before touching the food.
Hazard Substances
If you follow the directions on the label, the materials in the Azek decking system are not dangerous.
Trimming, chopping, crushing, and other actions that make dust can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and lungs. During installation, it is better to hire a pro.
Trex Decking Pros and Cons
Advantages
Sustainable
Recycling wood shavings and husks with recyclable plastic makes Trex decks environmentally friendly. This means that it is a more environmentally friendly option than natural wood.
Durable Look and Function
The homogeneous structure of the material keeps it strong, so it doesn’t break, decay, or tear into pieces.
Low Maintenance
Trex decking doesn’t need to be stained, painted, or sanded like natural wood. Hence, it keeps its physical beauty and durability.
Fade and Stain Warranty
The Fade and Stain Warranty on Trex decking lasts for 25 years. This means that you won’t have to worry about stains or discoloration even in the sun.
Resembles Wood
Trex’s surface coatings and recyclable wood materials make it appear and feel more like real wood than Azek.
Scratch Resistant
Trex is better than Azek because it has a rigid plastic coating that can resist scratches and last for a long time in climate extremes.
Comfortable Surface
You will be able to walk barefoot on the Trex deck. With a similar and reliable structure as wood, you’ll feel a strong yet gentle sensation against your ground decking.
Cost-Effective
Since Trex decking costs more, it saves you more money over the long term because it stays beautiful for a long time.
They need to be replaced less often because they have a 25 to 50 years warranty if installed properly. You should sweep and mop the surface frequently to keep it clean.
Disadvantages
Can’t Be Pressure-washed
It would be best if you didn’t use pressure to clean your Trex decking because it can damage the surface and make the warranty invalid.
Clean it by wiping it down with a damp mop and sweeping it often to keep dirt from building up on the surface.
A Challenge to Remove Ice and Snow
Trex’s durability is unaffected by severe weather, but removing ice and snow from the wooden floor can be difficult.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trex of Similar Quality to Azek?
Azek is more costly than Trex while also being more long-lasting. On the other hand, premium-grade Trex is more expensive than Azek, but it also has a more natural appearance and texture than Azek does.
Is It True that Azek Costs More than Trex?
The cost of Azek is higher than that of Trex. The price of Azek ranges from $120 to $140 for a board that is 16 feet long. This increase in cost is because Azek is a more long-lasting product than Trex.
What Sets Azek and Trex Apart as Two Distinct Options for Decking?
The primary distinction between Azek and Trex decking is the composition of the material used in each product. Trex is considered a capped composite decking material, and Azek decking is made entirely of PVC.
Trex is a composite material made from recycled wood chips and plastic that has been compressed together.
Which Brand of Composite Decking Is Considered to Be the Best?
Products manufactured by TimberTech AZEK are universally recognized as the industry’s finest and priciest composite decking materials.
Does Azek Get Scratched Easily?
Because AZEK Decks are resistant to scratching, you won’t have to worry about your patio furniture or pets leaving marks on the surface. AZEK gives you a warranty that lasts a lifetime.
Conclusion
This article compared Azek vs. Trex, and we understand which decking is right for us. You must choose the product that suits the weather in your area.
Trex has the advantage in terms of price, but the increased price of Azek will be less costly based on how much humidity your home is exposed to.
Both products are durable and available in a variety of sizes and colors. So, take your time and make the best decision before building your ideal deck.
I hope that this guide will assist you in making the best choice for your deck.
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