Trex Decking Cost: Average Prices & Cost Factors

Trex is a composite decking brand, made from recycled plastic and wood fibers pressed into boards that do not need staining. Buyers choose it for lower maintenance, and the price reflects that.

The first thing to know when you shop is that there are two different numbers. One is the cost of the boards, quoted per square foot. The other is the installed cost, which includes framing, fasteners, and the crew that builds the deck.

Board price is a fraction of the final bill. Once you add the substructure, hardware, labor, and cleanup, the installed price per square foot is several times higher.

Each Trex line sits at a different step of the price ladder, from entry-level Enhance boards up to Signature. Higher lines offer deeper grain, richer color, and a tougher surface, and they cost more.

The totals below show what a whole deck can cost at two common sizes.

The wide ranges reflect the board line, the height of the deck, and extras such as railings and stairs. A ground-level deck with simple stairs sits at the lower end of the range.

• Enhance. The most affordable line, with a wood-grain look and several color choices.
• Select. A step up in style and surface detail.
• Transcend. A tougher surface with more grain and richer colors.
• Signature. The highest-priced line, with the most refined look.

If budget is tight, ask the builder how much of the price difference comes from the boards and how much from labor. Because labor stays similar across lines, the board choice usually drives the difference.

• Board line. Each Trex line is priced differently.
• Deck size and shape. Bigger decks and curved edges raise cost.
• Height and structure. Elevated decks need more framing.
• Railings and stairs. Composite railing and wide stairs add to the total.
• Site conditions. Slopes, access, and old deck removal change labor.
• Hidden fasteners. Hidden fastening systems cost more than screws on the surface.
• Permits. Most areas require them.
• Local labor rates. Builders price differently from region to region.

Three sources give different ranges for Trex deck cost per square foot.

Part of the gap may come from what each source counts. A decking supplier quotes installed cost with substructure and labor, while the manufacturer's own cost page may describe a lower figure that depends on the assumptions behind it. Regional labor and board line also matter. When you compare, check whether each number is boards only or installed.

Trex costs more up front than pressure-treated lumber, but it saves on staining, sealing, and refinishing. Wood decks need recurring maintenance, and composite boards need cleaning but not refinishing.

• Trex pros: low upkeep, resistance to rot and insects, and no staining.
• Trex cons: higher purchase price, and boards can show heat in direct sun.
• Wood pros: lower initial cost and a natural look.
• Wood cons: regular sealing, and boards can crack, warp, or splinter.

Weigh the savings over the years you plan to own the home. See the manufacturer's warranty for details on stain and fade coverage.

Composite decking has installation requirements that differ from wood. Boards expand and contract with heat, so spacing and fastener choice matter. Joist spacing, ventilation under the deck, and the right fasteners can affect the warranty.

A builder with composite experience will know these rules. Ask whether they are familiar with Trex, whether they follow the manufacturer's installation guide, and what their workmanship warranty covers. Most areas require permits for a new deck, and attached decks should be inspected.

• Which Trex line is in the quote, and which colors are available?
• Is the price for boards only or fully installed?
• Does it include railing, stairs, fascia, and hidden fasteners?
• Who pulls the permit and schedules inspections?
• What warranties cover the boards and the labor?