Contractors and homeowner have been very exacting when it come to quality , durability , seniority , and terms of materials that they put in what they are constructing .
When talk aboutdeck flooring , it is a must that you put quality materials . They are prostrate to the damaging effects of direct exposure to sunlight and other elements , hence , can be brittle and might fade in time .
Traditionally , the great unwashed have been using Grant Wood material for decking and construction , in general . However , as time passes , people have been switching to composite decking as an option to deck of cards floor .
In this spot , we shall specifically front into fiberon and trex decking ; two of the most popular composite decking which you may consider .
Related:8 Reasons Why Composite Deck for Garden is deserving the Money
In this article
What is Fiberon decking?
Fiberon is right smart newer than trex but it has been making significant traction among constructor and homeowners today . Fiberon is know for make very durable composite and premature ventricular contraction decking that assures a no stain , no disappearance kind of decking , which is very pragmatic for the evenly hardheaded householder .
On the artistic side and more , Fiberon decking is also considered as an eco - well-disposed wood alternative which offers warmth and a high grade of appeal of lifelike wood without having to exert effort for its sustenance .
compare towood decking , Fiberon definitely outshines the latter as they also propose unlike colors for you to pick out from . It is also easier to correspond in the tone of your dwelling and building because of this feature .
Pros and cons of Fiberon decking?
Although Fiberon is a reputable stain , it also comes with its own pros and cons . To objectively hump what one could get from Fiberon , here are some of the most notable pros and cons that you should be cognisant of :
What is Trex decking?
Trex decking has been around , twice the age of Fiberon in the grocery . It is considered as the original composite decking party , serving its market place for more than sixty year now .
They have been made popular because they were the go - to decking option when Mrs. Henry Wood materials are not considered . Its principal feature is its signature tune smooth tucking and shaped decking which Ellen Price Wood can not extend .
Trex decking is made of in high spirits - lineament plastics , offering low - maintenance , piss and weather resistant features . Trex are have a go at it because they make great platforms like the patios , lift nerve pathway , especially decks . However , they can not be used in making house skeletal system and a shed .
Trex ’s independent products are deck boards which have 3 telephone circuit and 5 - 8 colors and textures which you’re able to take from . Just like Fiberon , its main goal is to provide quality cloth while make the responsibleness to make your deck have a beautiful view .
Related:35 + Best Trex Composite Decking Ideas and Designs ( With Pictures )
Pros and cons of Trex decking
Builders and homeowners have a lot of reasons to love Trex decking . As much as it has reputable strengths , it also has its own fair percentage of con . Hence , here are some of the pros and cons of Trex decking for your predilection :
What are the similarities between Fiberon and Trex decking?
In fairness to these two decking brands , they also have some law of similarity , although not very vast . One of the most heightened similarities between the two would be being more low - maintenance , and cheaper alternatives to wood decking .
As composite deck brand , they also bring to the table notable raise compared to seating with just wood materials .
For one , they are both weather condition resistant . They also make the pack of cards slip - costless , making it running year - round . They also put up a wide-eyed range of color and fixing organisation , among others .
In all other aspects , they have a steady conflict . But when it comes to being eco - well-disposed , both take pridefulness in recycling charge card materials for their intersection and are deposit on this process for their corporate responsibility .
What are the differences between Fiberon and Trex decking?
When it comes to visual appeal , Fiberon and Trex truly do seem likewise . However , they have a lot of divergence which you could not see and compare at first coup d’oeil . Thus , it is imperative to cognise their point of equivalence for you to have a better glance on what to choose when it total to these two and proportional to your needs and preference .
1.Capping
When it comes to capping , Trex systematically caps in deck on three sides while Fiberon follows the path the pack of cards is being cap . When this feature is faced off , the aesthetic appeal would be the main deviation .
For representative , Trex sport three sides : the transcend , better and good . Transcend has an upscale , natural , and classifiable wood pattern , offering a smorgasbord of colors and unique grains . It is also more cost - effective compared to Fiberon .
2.Material
In term of materials , Trex uses 95 % recycle stuff in all of its decking products . As for residential rail , it uses 50 % atomic number 13 and in commercial railing , it uses 70 % recycled aluminum .
Trex also uses charge plate , wood , scrap wood as materials in their composite decking . On the other hired hand , Fiberon claims that 94 % of its material are also made or recyclables . Both , notwithstanding , take that they use eco - friendly stuff .
3.Availability
In terms of availability , Trex is more usable in the market , both online and in strong-arm storehouse , compare to Fiberon . Trex has been very pop to consumers for its years of serve that is why they have been widely usable in the market .
This is the cause why Trex is considered as one of the go - to choices for decking . Fiberon on the other helping hand , has save up , and is now made more usable in the market .
4.Warranty
In terms of warranty , Fiberon stands out from Trex as it has a 50 - year warrantee limit while the latter only has a 25 - year guarantee . However , the 50 - year limit warranty of Fiberon is not apply to all its products .
As far as deck boards are concern , Trex bid a 25 - year warrant while Fiberon offer 20 - year warranty . The warrant covers topic on fading , even maculation , staining from contact with the mildew or modeling and many more . Either or , choosing between these two would for sure give you the mellow quality and service potential .
5.Color options
color give impact to anything , thus an crucial factor for every material put in a building or a family . These two brand have the same colour pallet featuring an array of Louis Harold Gray and Brown in dissimilar shade .
6.Installation
apart from the colour and aesthetic , initiation also has a lot to do with the fastening system each brand employs for more secured decking .
Trex for one , is fill with glass nylon fastening while Fiberon use EPDM plastic . Both nonetheless , are COMO partners , a deck fastening sword which is do it for its performance and lastingness .
The next noticeable divergence when it comes to set up is the aspect nailing . Fiberon has continuously been partnering with different manufacturer for cater exclusive features to its product like furnish colouration - matched screws for more aesthetic appeal .
7.Maintenance
Fortunately , both brands do not require a high stratum of maintenance . For one , Fiberon only necessitate two time of cleaning each yr .
loser to do so vitiate the warranty that is why it is a must to have at least two cleaning sessions when choosing Fiberon . On the other hand , Trex does not recommend or ask a specific number of clean days each year .
When cleaning the decks from these brand the DIY manner , both would benefit from using a soft easy lay , such as dish detergent , and water with a soft - bristly brush . The amount of time given to cleaning mean a newer , shinier , and more attractive deck for everyone to see and bask .
Related : How to Choose the Most Affordable Composite Decking For Your Garden ?
8.Accessories
Since Trex has been present way long before Fiberon , it comes with a plenty of accessory product . uncommitted accessories widen not just to decking but also for accessories require inoutdoor kitchen market , offering a line of cabinets , sink , counters , and others .
Compared to Trex , Fiberon has more modified accessory ranges . When it number to this aspect , Trex is given a major plus .
9.Price
This one is a primary factor to consider when it come to decking . Many link durability and longevity with its price that is why more have been concluding that the higher the price , the longer it will answer .
However , this does not apply to all . Sometimes , its availability to the securities industry is the measurement of whether the price is high-pitched or lowly and that is dead on target for Fiberon .
As for price comparisons for specific products , Fiberon is generally more expensive than Trex too . For Trex , a 16 ’ Enhance board is around the price of $ 40 , while a 16 ’ Fiberon Good Life board costs $ 43 .
10.Sustainability
Trex and Fiberon are both claiming that they are eco - friendly brands especially the use of recycled plastics in their board decks . Through this , both have been claiming that they are helping the environment eradicate the so many plastics around just everywhere and make it into something utilitarian and attractive .
Related:35 + Awesome Deck Steps and Stairs Ideas and Designs ( With Pictures )
Final verdict
With everything that we have look at , and in all aspects mentioned , we give the final verdict to Tex . Its many years in the marketplace and the repute it has established speaks for itself already . Beyond this , it has proven its firebrand in terms of operation , specifically when it issue forth to caliber , lastingness , and longevity .
The waving of better reviews that it continually generates in respected consumer brushup sites also says a lot about why it continue to be the good selection . Most significantly , its availability in the market place is also a expression of its reputability .
Related:35 + Best Deck Skirting Ideas and Designs
FAQs
away from what we have covered , it is also crucial that we have a rundown of some of the essential entropy about some Trex and Fiberon characteristic that you should be aware of . Hence , here are some FAQs about Fiberon and Trex decking for you .
Does Fiberon scratch easily?
Just as the wood decking is prone to being marred , the surface of the composite decking can also be scratched .
However , because Fiberon has been known to have the lineament of having the availability of apparent horizon decking and protection advantages , it became more resistant to scratches . So , when the first thing you desire to come up to is inscribe or if scratches make the decking less attractive , then choose Fiberon .
Is Fiberon decking slippery when wet?
Fiberon has eminent piss resistance , proven under a slick test conducted by the Fiberon company itself . Fiberon has exceeded the recommendation of pro under the slip examination section that is why when talking about slip resistance , Fiberon is a truehearted selection .
It has a more stable traction when it come to its composite surface . This is an important factor to look at in decks as it could determine the level of usefulness of the pack of cards year - round and the level of safety gadget when using it .
Does Fiberon expand and contract?
Any materials such as Natalie Wood , composite , alloy and other more will have to undergo a linear expansion induce by the changing weather experimental condition . When this befall , some job might arise accord to the way they are fasten or to their original mannikin before the expansion process .
Though they do inflate and contract , it is not an immediate yield to be concerned of . When you choose Fiberone , keep in judgment that it expands over time and can be keep through regulations and proper addressing of the job and count for themanual or search for any other selection that are present .
Can Fiberon decking be power washed?
Yes , but it requires utmost caution as it may damage your composite decks . Remember that when something wrong happens from washing , your long - time warranty will be affected as they will no longer accept it . So , it is advisable that you take in a high level of caution when king washing your Fiberon pack of cards .
Can Trex decking be painted?
Yes . Deck staining compels homeowner the need to paint it to conceal them . Should you wish well to paint your Trex deck , it is ideal to expend an acrylic paint latex exterior fuzee then coat it with semi - gloss latex paint key . When bear to stain your decks , make certain that you pick the good materials .
A paint can renew the look of a material but only when employ decent . So , when having the prospect to refurbish the home deck of cards , give it a try and shut your discoloration problem with the correct choice of paint .
Why is Trex composite decking better than using hardwood decking?
Trex provide high carrying into action and timbre material that is why it is regard good than usinghardwood decking . Trex has a lot of reward such as being immune to termite .
by from this , it has a greater aesthetical appeal with that refined look which no longer needs to be anele or paint any longer . Trex is way better than all brand or manufacturer and although it is known to be costly , the price exceeds the caliber it serves .
What kind of paint do you use on Trex decking?
While it is true that paints make materials creative , colorful and attractive , the right choice of the sort and colouring material matters when deciding to paint your composite decks .
To attain a sleek and shiny ending on composite decking , use a high - quality latex paint . When it comes to the finis rouge , you may choose to use a semi - gloss satin to make a more beautiful view .
Why is my Trex deck turning white?
White Natalie Wood spots in your Trex deck would be an indicant of its wood particle being display to the sun super . This means that the seal of your deck of cards is already damaged and that the interior particles have been bleached by the sunshine and rainwater .
Are Fiberon fasteners compatible with Trex decks?
No , but there is a specific Fiberon fastener for universal fasten purposes . In this , we are specifically talk about the Fiberon Phantom , which is designed to become a universal fastener which is loosely compatible with all decking trade name including Trex deck . As for all other Fiberon fastening system , they are designed to form with Fiberon materials only .
How much space do you need between Fiberon deck boards?
The most adequate space recommended when installing Fiberon deck of cards card would be 4.8 mm to provide better ventilation and drainage for humble debris to be move out .
A lower limit of 6.4 millimeter outer space in between deck boards and permanent social system should also be observe for a sturdier deck form .
What is the recommended joint spacing for Trex decks?
While there is no ready rule of thumb , it is commend that there should be 16 - inch on center . This is the measurement used in standard composite decking installing to verify that everything is straight and cohesive .
Can composite decking be screwed?
Yes . away from hidden fastening , one way to fix the composite pack of cards would be through screwing in the hollow composite deck of cards . While this is the go - to instalment scheme for wooden decks , it is also applicable for composite decking .
How long do composite decks last?
Since we have discussed two of the most popular decking brands out there , it is valid to ask the modal seniority of composite pack of cards . A rough estimate would be in between 20 - 30 days . Even with the minimal maintenance and maintenance , the use of surd plastics in composite decking reinforce their longevity .
Is composite decking better than wood?
The truth is , wood , in its expensiveness , is still better than composite decking when it come to strength . Composite decking materials are generally weaker in form and complex body part compare to Sir Henry Joseph Wood materials .
As such , they have to be fastened well so that they can support their own free weight . This is also the reasonableness why composite deck would require littler joint spacing compare to Sir Henry Wood materials .
Is composite decking vulnerable to molds?
Yes , unfortunately . This is one of the drawback of composite material because they are made of woods flour and plastic . The mention of wood flour already highlights why composite decking is vulnerable to molds .
This is especially disadvantageous since the molds could seep in between the joints or boards , structurally damaging the seniority of the composite decking .
Does composite decking get hot?
This is another drawback to composite decking . It is said that verbatim exposure to sunshine by composite decking would reach temperatures of up to 76F.
This is significantly greater than the temperature of the smother air . Some studies would even say that the temperature in composite decking surfaces would be double the temperature of the day .
Can composite decking be power washed with vinegar?
You would receive it weird but a vinegar and baking soda solution would be a good combo when world power washing composite pack of cards with heavy stains . Unlike woods , composite decks are more springy to the sour of vinegar . They would not fade with the solution and relief assure that the mark shall be withdraw at an instant .
During spring and the showery days , composite decking might turn green due to molds . When you have this perennial problem with your composite decking , the good vinegar type to use of goods and services would be white distilled vinegar .
Are composite decking prone to warping?
fortuitously , composite decking does not garble but they can warp and sag with the overtaking of time and the level of their pic to weather and other elements .
Sagging is by and large ascribe to defective installment of the joist . Buckling and sagging are also commonly have by fluctuations of temperature and thermic enlargement .
Is it safe to put grills on composite decks?
Yes . This is a plus for composite decks . All composite decks have a minimal class rating of C which means that compare to wood , it has a level of protection when it comes to possible fire peril coming from traditional ember grills . But to be sure , it is always recommend to put a fervency mat or pads beneath the grill to protect the pack of cards from ember wasteweir and utmost heat .
Can you put rugs on composite decks?
Just as on wood decks , there are certain rug material that would exit marks on composite decks . When this materialize , you would obtain uneven colouration in your deck .
The rug fabric that you should not put in your composite pack of cards would be those with rubber , latex , and vinyl backing . The well rugs to use for composite decks would be those colorfast woven rugs and those made from high - quality polypropylene mat .
How do you fix a faded composite deck?
When fixing a pass off composite deck , you should use a gentle and delicate method acting of wash so as not to damage the composite deck . Thus , using an oil - base solution would sterilise your faded composite deck . Here is a simplevisualthat would give you some of the basic dance step in mend a faded composite deck .
What are the alternatives to Trex and Fiberon?
Although Trex and Fiberon are the two most popular composite decking in the market , you would be beaming to know that there are other alternatives to Trex and Fiberon which you could also check out . If you are wondering what these are , it would be the pursual :
Conclusion
Choosing the best brand or maker that would give your deck a high level of sophistication is a builder or the householder ’s responsibility . This is the cause why asking and search about the good decking brands would be essential .
In this post , we looked at Fiberon and Trex , being two of the most reputable decking service in the marketplace . While there are meaning differences between these two , they have unique similarity and a bonnie share of pros and con .
Between the two , Trex has been around the market on a far longer plate than Fiberon . In all other view , it is also comparatively on a better edge than Fiberon . Nonetheless , Fiberon also has its top , admit lengthier warrant coverage and more high - end feature . Nonetheless , they are both in a league of their own and although we have given the final verdict to Trex , Fiberon is still a prime selection .
