How to Choose Between Trex and a Wood Deck.
If you're planning a backyard upgrade, adding a deck is a great project to increase the value of your home. It's a very desirable amenity and adds more outdoor living space. Whether you’re building a deck yourself or hiring a company to build it for you the type of material used is a very important decision.
So, before you break ground, there's a key decision to make: Trex or wood lumber?
Each material has its pros and cons—especially in Colorado’s unique climate.
Five things you need to know about decking materials:
At our lumberyards, we often get this question from homeowners eager to build a durable, beautiful deck. There is a lot to keep in mind, so consider these five things before starting.
1. Deck Budget: Upfront Costs vs. Long-Term Value.
Every deck project has a budget, and your material choice plays a big role in the final cost.
Trex may typically costs more upfront - both in terms of materials and fasteners, but it pays off over time thanks to lower maintenance and a longer lifespan. Further, unlike any wood product, Trex carries a long-term manufacturer’s warranty.
Wood lumber is often more affordable initially, making it attractive for tight budgets. However, the long-term effort and costs of maintenance plus potential replacement boards can add up. Remember, ANY wood product may split, warp, cup, or other reactions over time, especially if not cared for.
2. Climate Challenges: What Deck Building Material Works Best in the Metro Denver Area?
Colorado's weather is famously unpredictable AND demanding. From dry summer heat to freezing winter snow, your deck has to withstand a lot.
Trex (a brand type of composite decking made from recycled plastic and wood fibers) is highly resistant to moisture, temperature swings, and UV rays. This makes it a great low-maintenance option for Colorado’s variable climate. Read more useful information on Trex Decking.
Wood lumber like treated, redwood and cedar can also handle the elements - but it needs regular care to maintain its appearance. Without proper sealing and staining, wood can warp, crack, or fade faster under Colorado’s intense sun and snow. Read more useful information on Wood Decking.
3. Deck Maintenance: How Much Time Do You Want to Spend Maintaining Your Deck?
Once your deck is built in accordance to code, manufacturer instructions, and best practices, maintenance becomes a long-term consideration.
Trex is virtually maintenance-free. No staining, no sealing - just the occasional cleaning with soap and water.
Wood lumber on the other hand, requires seasonal upkeep. To keep it looking good and performing well, you’ll need to stain and seal it regularly and watch for signs of wear, rot or insect damage. We recommend and sell Penofin Stains.
4. Deck Appearance: Classic Wood Look or Modern Finish?
Looks matter, especially when you’re investing time and money into an outdoor living space to enjoy for years to come.
Trex comes in a variety of colors and wood-grain finishes. It offers a clean, uniform appearance which mimics natural wood but stays consistent over time.
Not sure what color Trex to choose? We offer FREE Trex Color Samples for you to take home.
Virtually all other suppliers charge you for a sample of Trex composite decking. Or, you can order (and pay $10 each) from Trex Company for their samples. Get them for free at our Fort Lupton and Lakewood stores!
Wood lumber has a natural, timeless beauty that many homeowners prefer. You can choose from a range of species like cedar, redwood, or pine, and customize the finish to match your style. Whether you want your deck built with redwood, cedar, or treated lumber, you will find what you need at one of our locations - we only stock quality deck building lumber!
5. Deck Material Availability and Local Support.
As a locally-owned lumberyard with locations in Lakewood and Fort Lupton Colorado, we stock a wide selection of both Trex decking products and high-quality wood lumber options.
Whether you're looking for lumber or eco-friendly composite boards, we’re here to help you compare materials and find everything you need for your deck project.
We sell and deliver everything you need to complete your deck.
No matter what you need, we have it: posts, hardware, fasteners, railings, rim joists, flashing, concrete, etc. And, we deliver everything to homes and job sites.
What Building Material is Right For My Deck?
If you want low-maintenance, long-term durability, and a clean finish, Trex is likely your best bet - especially in Colorado’s weather. If you prefer natural wood aesthetics, customization, and a lower initial cost, traditional lumber might be the right choice.
No matter what you decide, our staff in Lakewood and Fort Lupton is ready to help you. Call, email, or visit us today for expert guidance, quality materials, and everything you need to build the deck you’ve been dreaming of.
High-Quality Deck Building Materials And an Experienced Staff Ready to Help!
By following the five tips above, you'll not only choose the right building materials for your deck, but also ensure lasting results you are happy with. At Front Range Lumber, we offer a wide selection of high-quality materials tailored to meet the unique needs of Metro Denver DIY enthusiasts and contractors.
Visit our lumber yard in Lakewood or Fort Lupton to explore our inventory and talk with our knowledgeable staff for personalized help in selecting the perfect materials for your next project!
Why Choose Front Range Lumber Company?
With two convenient locations in Lakewood and Fort Lupton, Front Range Lumber is the Front Range's trusted source for quality building materials for over 60 years!
Our knowledgeable staff can help you select the best product for your home project, offer expert advice, and provide delivery right to your home or job site.
Have questions?
Contact us online, or stop by one of our locations for expert advice. You can also give one of our locations a call:
LAKEWOOD: 1741 S. Wadsworth Blvd.📞 303-988-5980
FORT LUPTON: 805 14th Street 📞 720-683-7162
High Quality Deck Materials for Sale and Delivery in Arvada, Aurora, Bailey, Castle Rock, Centennial, Colorado Springs, Denver, Englewood, Golden, Highlands Ranch, Lakewood, Littleton, Lone Tree, Morrison, Pine, Roxborough, and Sedalia from our Lakewood lumberyard.
High Quality Deck Materials for Sale and Delivery in Bennett, Berthoud, Boulder, Brighton, Broomfield, Commerce City, Dacono, Firestone, Fort Lupton, Frederick, Greeley, Hudson, Johnstown, Keenesberg, LaSalle, Lafayette, Longmont, Louisville, Loveland, Platteville, Superior, Watkins, and Westminster from our Fort Lupton lumberyard.
Is Your Project Done?
Make sure to enter it into our monthly contest! You will be entered for a chance to win a $100 store credit. Find out more, enter, and see past winners: Proud Of My Project Contest.
