Composite Wood Decking (Trex or Similar)
N/A (Man-made Wood-Plastic Composite) · Engineered
- Type
- Engineered
- Origin
- Industrial manufacturing (Global; primarily North America for common brands).
- Hardness
- N/A (Varied); typically classified as Medium (comparable to 1,000-1,200 lbf Janka) due to dense plastic and wood fiber composition.
- Durability
- Very Durable; engineered for extreme resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termite infestation. Does not splinter, warp, or crack like natural wood.
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Grain Pattern
Embossed faux-wood grain; features linear, repetitive patterns designed to mimic natural timber but lacks authentic wood cell structure or figure.
Color & Appearance
Uniform weathered gray/taupe solid color. This is a factory-pigmented UV-resistant coating or surface layer that does not age or patina like natural wood, remaining colorfast over time.
Hardness (Janka)
N/A (Varied); typically classified as Medium (comparable to 1,000-1,200 lbf Janka) due to dense plastic and wood fiber composition.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; engineered for extreme resistance to rot, fungal decay, and termite infestation. Does not splinter, warp, or crack like natural wood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $7.00 per linear foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- 5 to 10 years based on the minor accumulation of surface debris and slight loss of original factory sheen.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly Sustainable; typically made from 95% recycled materials including reclaimed wood sawdust and recycled plastic film (polyethylene).
Common Uses
Outdoor residential and commercial decking, boardwalks, railing systems, and outdoor furniture.
Geographic Origin
Industrial manufacturing (Global; primarily North America for common brands).
Workability
Easily worked with standard woodworking tools; cuts like soft wood but is abrasive on blades. Does not require sanding or sealing; edges must be hidden or capped.
Finish Recommendations
No finish recommended or required. Painting or staining is generally not advised as it will not adhere well to the plastic components.
Notable Features
Low maintenance, high slip resistance when wet, uniform density throughout, and expansion/contraction occurs primarily along the length rather than the width.
