# Trex vs Wood Decking: Complete Comparison Guide [Browser-friendly HTML version](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/website-guide/pages/articles/trex-vs-wood-decking/index) Source: https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/trex-vs-wood-decking Last modified: 2026-02-18T00:00:00.000Z Text part: 1 of 1 [Full website text index](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/llms-full.txt) | [Articles and guides](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/llms/articles-001.txt) | [Previous page](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/llms/pages/articles/turf-vs-natural-grass/index.txt) | [Next page](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/llms/pages/articles/porcelain-pavers-vs-concrete-pavers/index.txt) --- 1. 1. [Resources](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles) 1. [Outdoor Living](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/category/outdoor-living) 1. Trex vs Wood Decking: Which Deck Material Wins? [Outdoor Living](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/category/outdoor-living) ### Trex vs Wood Decking: Which Deck Material Wins? Composite decking vs natural wood for California outdoor spaces [Remodel Your Vibe Design Team](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/our-approach) February 18, 20269 min read Image: Comparison of Trex composite deck and natural wood deck in backyard In this article 1. Cost Comparison 1. Maintenance Requirements 1. Durability & Warranty 1. Appearance & Feel The decking material you choose affects maintenance, longevity, appearance, and cost for years to come. Here's how composite decking like Trex compares to natural wood options. In this article 1. Cost Comparison 1. Maintenance Requirements 1. Durability & Warranty 1. Appearance & Feel #### Cost Comparison Pressure-treated pine: $15-25/sq ft installed. Redwood: $30-50/sq ft. Trex Select: $40-50/sq ft. Trex Transcend: $55-70/sq ft. TimberTech Azek: $60-80/sq ft. Composite costs 2-3x more upfront. #### Maintenance Requirements Wood decks need annual staining/sealing ($2-4/sq ft), regular cleaning, and board replacement. Composite decks need occasional cleaning only. Over 20 years, maintenance costs often exceed the composite price premium. Ready to Start Your Project? Schedule a free consultation with our design team. [Book a Consultation](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/contact-us) [Call 818-300-2393](tel:+18183002393) #### Durability & Warranty Pressure-treated wood lasts 10-15 years. Redwood lasts 15-25 years. Premium composites last 25-50 years with 25-year warranties. Composites resist rot, insects, and UV fading that affect wood. #### Appearance & Feel Wood offers natural beauty that many homeowners prefer. Modern composites closely mimic wood grain but feel different underfoot. Composites maintain color; wood develops patina or requires staining. #### Final Thoughts For California's climate, composite decking offers compelling long-term value despite higher upfront costs. If natural wood aesthetics are essential, redwood or ipe with proper maintenance are excellent choices. Where we build #### Build this at your home We build from Santa Clarita to Long Beach, Thousand Oaks to Riverside, and Orange County down to Mission Viejo. Start with your city: - [Backyard & Outdoor Living in San Marino](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling/san-marino) - [Backyard & Outdoor Living in Altadena](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling/altadena) - [Backyard & Outdoor Living in Newport Beach](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling/newport-beach) - [Backyard & Outdoor Living in Irvine](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling/irvine) - [Backyard & Outdoor Living in Huntington Beach](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling/huntington-beach) - [Backyard & Outdoor Living in Los Angeles](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling/los-angeles) [Explore Backyard & Outdoor Living](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling) #### Frequently Asked Questions Does composite decking get hot? Yes, darker composites can get uncomfortably hot. Choose lighter colors for full-sun decks or consider capped composites with cooler technology. Can I install composite over existing wood? Generally no. Composite requires proper joist spacing and ventilation. Most projects require removing existing decking. Topics - decking - trex - composite - wood deck - comparison #### About the author Remodel Your Vibe Design Team Written by the design team at Remodel Your Vibe, a licensed ( [CSLB #1119054](https://www.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/LicenseDetail.aspx?LicNum=1119054) ), bonded and insured, veteran-owned and family-operated design-build company based in Los Angeles. Our own crews design, permit and build pools, backyards, ADUs and interiors across Greater Los Angeles and Orange County. [How we work](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/our-approach) #### Who builds it - [CSLB License #1119054](https://www.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/LicenseDetail.aspx?LicNum=1119054) - Veteran-owned and family-operated - Years of experience building across Southern California - Our own crews build it. One team designs, permits and builds. #### Related services - [Backyard & Outdoor LivingWe build patios, outdoor kitchens and fire pits for long evenings outside.](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/services/exterior-remodeling) #### Talk it through with us Discuss your project with our design team and get expert advice. We call you back within one business day. [Book a Consultation](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/contact-us) [818-300-2393](tel:+18183002393) #### Ready to Transform Your Space? Let's discuss your vision. Schedule a free consultation with our design team and see how we can bring your project to life. [Book a Consultation](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/contact-us) [818-300-2393](tel:+18183002393) We call you back within one business day. #### Continue Reading [All Articles](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles) - [Outdoor Living Outdoor Fireplace Design Ideas for California Homes 8 min read](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/outdoor-fireplace-design-ideas) - [Outdoor Living Modern Pergola & Patio Cover Ideas 8 min read](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/modern-pergola-patio-cover-ideas) - [Outdoor Living Outdoor Lighting Design: Create Drama and Safety 9 min read](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/outdoor-lighting-design-guide) #### Further Reading ##### Design Inspiration - [Backyard Entertainment Zone Design IdeasTransform your backyard into the perfect entertainment destination. From outdoor theaters to game areas, discover design ideas for memorable gatherings.](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/backyard-entertainment-zone-design) - [Water Features for Backyard Ambiance and RelaxationWater features create ambiance, attract wildlife, and add soothing sounds. Explore fountains, streams, and water elements for your backyard.](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/water-features-fountains-streams) ##### Cost Guide - [California Rebates for Home and Backyard UpgradesCalifornia offers substantial rebates for energy and water efficiency upgrades. Discover available programs, eligibility requirements, and how to apply for rebates.](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/california-rebates-home-upgrades) ##### Local Guide - [Chatsworth Outdoor Living on Big and Equestrian LotsChatsworth outdoor living runs $90,000 to $300,000 because the lots are large enough that square footage, not finish, drives the number. Rock excavation and fire zone rules are the wildcards.](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/chatsworth-outdoor-living-equestrian-lots) ##### Educational - [Energy Efficient Backyard Design Ideas for CaliforniaAn energy-efficient backyard reduces utility costs and environmental impact. Learn passive cooling, smart shading, and efficient lighting strategies for California homes.](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/energy-efficient-backyard-design-california) ##### Comparison Guide - [Artificial Turf vs Natural Grass: California ComparisonCalifornia's water costs and drought conditions make artificial turf appealing. Compare the real costs, maintenance, and environmental impact of turf vs natural grass.](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/turf-vs-natural-grass) [All Outdoor Living guides](https://www.remodelyourvibe.com/articles/category/outdoor-living) --- End of text part 1 of 1. This page is complete.