Trex and Azek have defined the decking category for several years, especially after Azek acquired Timbertech in 2013, inadvertently spreading their reach and influence. These deck materials are quickly replacing cedar due to their superior durability, ability to withstand fluctuating temperatures over the course of several years, and eco-friendliness.
Trex decking utilizes recycling for the majority of their materials, with the company being aware of the environmental impact of the industry’s output. Azek also uses the latest materials in science innovation to produce decking material that can withstand harsh conditions. Compared to cedar, modernization with Trex and Azek products have quickly made cedar redundant, even making it a liability due to the unpredictability of the wood under different environmental loads.
The Benefits of Azek and Trex
Azek decking provides wider economic functionality when compared to other materials. The composite used by Azek have a higher return on investment, prepping your home for high resale values if you decide to sell your home in the future.
Azek materials have a lifespan north of 25 years, allowing you to enjoy your investment for a very long time. Its longevity is marked by its remarkable low maintenance, with one of the benefits of composite decking including boards that do not need a regular sanding, as the surface is naturally resistant to the effects of the weather.
The boards used by Azek do not contain additional wood fibers. However, it is still very workable and versatile, just like actual wood. Even though the installation of Azek boards tends to be a bit more expensive than cedar installments, the total cost of ownership over time is comparable or even less than cedar.
Trex deck boards are also known for its lasting beauty, with a high-performance composite material used in its decking material. Compared to wood, Trex is a lot lower maintenance. Designed to share the aesthetic beauty of timber decking without the additional hassle, Trex uses a composite board that can withstand snow, rain, and intense sunlight throughout its lifetime without it affecting the surface. Cedar, on the other hand, can rot, swell, crack, and eventually contribute to deforestation.
Underlining the value of innovation, Trex is also superior to even earlier models of composite decking. Trex has been one of the pioneers of early generation composite materials, building on the industry through progressive engineering. While earlier generations of the composite were susceptible to discoloration and staining, the newer generation of Trex composite materials is a lot more enduring.
Even when compared to PVC decking, which tends to be marketed for its ability to resist rot, Trex comes on top due to its capacity to resist chalking and the natural process of contraction and expansion during temperature changes. Extreme temperature changes compromise the integrity of PVC and wood materials alike.
Why Cedar Is Becoming Redundant
Compared to other types of decking materials, cedar has become an expensive investment. As cedar ages, tannins affect the color and texture of the wood. Moisture can also compromise the material over time. The first couple of years, cedar may look exceptional, but then the tannins can make the board panel seem inconsistent, as areas may age differently compared to how much sunlight and precipitation it receives. It’s a maintenance intensive decking material.
Azek and Trex decking materials last longer and are a more consistent investment. The color will not turn on you nor will the texture change throughout the years in the same way that cedar does, an investment that has made homeowners hesitant. The color scheme of your Azek and Trex board materials will stay uniform as they are naturally resistant to rain, snow, mechanical abrasion, and radiation coming from the sun.
For an investment that will last for several years without the headache associated with cedar wood, consider using Trex and Azek products for your next renovation project.