The average cost to install Trex decking is $4,800
If you're finally ready to tackle that deck project and extend your outdoor living space so you can host the next family reunion or graduation party, Trex decking might be a great fit.
Trex decking is a leading brand of composite decking materials that require little maintenance. Depending on square feet and extra features, Trex decking projects typically cost between $1,600 to $9,600. Learn more about Trex deck pricing to see if it's the right deck material for you.
| Low Cost | Average Cost | High Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $1,600 | $4,800 | $9,600 |
How Much Does Trex Decking Cost?
Trex decking cost depends mostly on the type of material you choose and whether you need framing, railing, and stairs. Check out the factors most likely to impact your Trex decking project price.
Square Footage
Depending on the series and color, Trex decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot, plus another $5 to $15 per square foot for installation. For a complete Trex deck—including framing, decking, railings, and stairs—budget $20 to $62 per square foot.
Framing
If you need to build framing under your deck, budget for $10 to $15 per square foot.
Trex Decking Material
Depending on the type of Trex decking you choose, plan on $5 to $15 per square foot for the boards alone. Trex Select and Enhance run $5 to $9 per square foot, while Trex Transcend runs from $10 to $12 per square foot.
Rails
Adding a railing perimeter around your deck or lining a staircase with a railing can cost between $20 to $60 per linear foot, based on the number of posts you include.
Stairs
Trex decking stairs usually cost between $20 and $50 per square foot, depending on the complexity, height, and number of stairs.
Trex Decking Installation Cost
Your final Trex decking cost will come down to materials, plus a few variables that affect labor rates. Here are the main factors that could impact your budget.
Labor Costs
The complexity of your build, difficulty accessing the space, and cost of labor in your area will all contribute to the labor cost, which ranges from $5 to $15 per square foot. Replacing boards with Trex decking on an existing deck frame can happen in as little as one to three days. Since this is the simplest type of build, you can expect labor costs to stay on the lower end.
On the other hand, If you need framing, stairs, and railings, you could spend anywhere from $15 to $35 per square foot on installation labor. This typically takes around a week to complete, though your final project timeline varies based on the size and style of your deck.
Season
While it may seem like a no-brainer to install Trex decking during the warm-weather months, the heightened demand for contractors due to seasonality will likely increase the project cost. Plus, it may be more difficult to source the necessary materials during the busy season, extending your project’s timeline. Instead, consider purchasing and installing Trex decking during the fall or winter months.
Difficulty of Space
If it’s challenging to access your backyard, it may raise the cost of labor. If you're building on a slope versus flat land, it may also contribute to an increased price. Talk with your contractor about the details of your space to get an accurate estimate, so there are no surprises.
Trex Decking Cost by Type
Trex decking comes in a few varieties that range in color, longevity, durability, and thickness. Here’s a breakdown of Trex decking cost by type. Each product carries a 25-year limited warranty, protecting you from material defects or fading.
Trex Enhance
Trex Enhance decking ranges from $5 to $7 per square foot. This decking is 0.94 inches thick with a scalloped bottom and has superior scratch resistance over Trex Select decking boards. Boards come in Natural and Basic styles, with deep wood grains for a more natural look.
Trex Select
Trex Select ranges from $7 to $9 per square foot. Boards are 0.82 inches thick and have the lowest level of scratch resistance offered by Trex. Due to its thinner boards, Select is easier and faster to install, saving on labor costs and making it the most DIY-friendly choice. The Select series offers more color choices than Enhance and is less expensive than Transcend.
Trex Transcend
Trex Transcend costs $10 to $12 per square foot and features the best quality Trex has to offer. It is 0.94 inches thick and features the best scratch resistance of the three. It also has the most robust selection of colors and style options.
Trex RainEscape
Trex RainEscape is a drainage system that you can install below your boards to keep your deck clean and dry. It costs $2.50 to $4 per square foot and helps protect your substructure from rot and moisture damage.
Trex Extras
Don’t forget to consider adding complementary Trex features and accessories to your deck. Check out these common Trex extras:
Trex Outdoor Lighting: $11–$104
Trex Pergola: Starting at $8,840
Trex Pergola + ShadeTree Canopy: Starting at $8,600
Trex Lattice: $195–$960 per lattice
Trex Outdoor Lighting
Adding outdoor lighting to your Trex deck typically costs between $15 and $110. You can go for string lights, cafe-style lights, solar LED lanterns, or a few statement lamps to beautifully illuminate your deck after dark.
Trex Pergola
Adding a Trex pergola to your deck starts at about $8,840. There is a wide range of colors and styles to choose from, and your final cost will depend on the size and material you select.
Trex Pergola + ShadeTree Canopy
Starting at $8,600, Trex Pergola + ShadeTree Canopy offers a customizable, retractable fabric shelter from the sun and drizzle. The canopy system is easy to install and maintain, and comes in standard sizes as well as unique shapes. You can add lighting, curtains, and heaters to create a cozy, covered area on your trex deck.
Trex Lattice
Adding a Trex lattice typically goes for between $195 and $960 per lattice. Again, your final cost depends on the size and style of lattice you choose.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
If you’re a moderate or experienced DIYer, you can install Trex decking yourself, but be sure you have a suitable substructure. Your deck framing needs to support the weight without shifting, and that usually requires a professional. You’ll want to avoid spending thousands on a new deck, only to have the framing deteriorate.
Consider getting quotes from at least three local deck builders who can build the proper framing and support.
Cost to Install Trex Decking Yourself
Installing your own Trex decking can save you around 65% of the cost of having it done professionally. Trex decking costs $5 to $12 per square foot for materials, plus an additional $10 to $15 per square foot if you need to build framing. If you don’t already have the necessary tools and equipment, budget an additional $500 to $1,000 to cover the costs for items such as PPE, a drill, a circular saw, hand tools, and a wheelbarrow.
How to Save Money Using Trex Decking
Aside from going the DIY route, there are a few other ways to save money on your Trex decking cost. Here are a few ideas to make your deck build more budget-conscious:
Hire deck builders during the off-season when labor rates are lower.
Get multiple quotes from reputable contractors to find the best deal.
Stick to simple square or rectangular shapes over rounded, more complex designs.
Ask your contractor about financing options to make your deck build more affordable.
Trex Decking Advantages
Should I install Trex decking?
Trex decking offers the following benefits:
Minimal maintenance: It doesn’t need to be painted, stained, or resealed.
Easy to clean: Just sweep the surface and gently clean with a sprayer.
Recycled materials: The decking is made of 95 percent recycled materials like plastic, wood, and sawdust.
Durable: Comes with a 25-year warranty and has a protective shell to ward against rotting, termites, warping, and splintering.
Large selection of colors and styles: From natural wood grain to a painted look, Trex decking comes in various options.
Trex decking can be slightly more expensive than wood decks initially but will save you money in the long run due to its 25-year longevity and lack of maintenance costs.
Jenna Jonaitis contributed to this piece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most floor and deck materials are more slippery when wet, but Trex decking is less likely to get slippery than wood decks. Plus, you can add non-slip paint or anti-slip coating for extra protection.
Unlike wood decks, Trex decking doesn’t warp. That’s one of the key benefits of installing this type of decking material.
Many outdoor surfaces warm up after direct sun exposure, and Trex decking is one of them. If you live in a hotter climate, you should consider installing a lighter shade of decking material as darker colors tend to trap more heat.
