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Trex University: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Composite Decking, from a Seattle Installer
If you’re a homeowner in Seattle, there’s no doubt that you’ve heard about composite decking or Trex decking specifically. You may have even considered installing it at your own home, or perhaps you already have! We love composite for Seattle homes for its unmatched durability and ease of maintenance in our wet climate. And as a Seattle painting company that also offers carpentry services, we are able to install composite decking for our clients!
When a homeowner asks us about decking, we want to answer from real experience rather than a product brochure. That is why recently, our sales representative, Connor, and our lead carpenter, Taylor, made the trip from Seattle to Winchester, Virginia. There, they spent two days learning about the design and manufacturing process of Trex decking and railing systems. Franklin and Billy from Dunn Lumber, and Kyle from Trex also accompanied them.
Let’s hear from Connor, in his own words, how the trip went!
We think it matters that the crew recommending a product has actually watched it come together, from raw material to finished board. Here is what we took away, and why it shapes the way we approach Trex decking projects back home. Our visit to Winchester was an incredible learning experience. As a TrexPro® Certified Installer, we were thrilled to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the products we install and gain a deeper understanding of how they’re made.
On our two-day trip, we spent the first day on classroom learning and the second day on a factory tour.
Day One: Trex University
We spent the first day at Trex University. There, we learned about the history of Trex products and their applications. We also learned about the innovations that continue to make them a leader in the composite decking industry. A few highlights from the presentation included learning the differences between the Enhance®, Select®, Transcend®, and Lineage® decking lines, as well as the Refuge® line, which is a PVC decking product.
Another standout product was the Trex RainEscape® Under-Deck Drainage System. For elevated decks, RainEscape provides a way to divert water away from the area below. This allows homeowners to enjoy their deck surface during the summer while creating a dry, usable space underneath throughout the fall and winter. I especially like the fact that it helps keep outdoor furniture, storage items, and gathering spaces protected year-round.
We also spent time exploring Trex’s unique railing systems, including aluminum, steel, glass, and cable options. Here in the Pacific Northwest, aluminum, glass, and cable railings continue to be some of the most popular choices. Homeowners appreciate their clean appearance and ability to maximize views.
My favorite product discussed during the week was the Transcend® decking line in the color Tiki Torch. It offers the warm, natural look of wood while being made from sustainable and recyclable materials. Best of all, it requires virtually no maintenance. It is an excellent option for homeowners who desire both beauty and durability.
Day Two: Factory Tour
On the second day, we toured the Trex manufacturing facility to see the manufacturing process firsthand. Because the materials are sourced and manufactured in the United States, we were able to follow much of the production process from start to finish.
We watched the forming and molding of the boards, blending of colors into the material, and the quality assurance process in action. One thing that stood out to me was seeing several boards pulled directly from the production line. Those boards that didn’t meet Trex’s standards were immediately recycled and reprocessed, which reinforced Trex’s commitment to quality control.
Final Thoughts
If you are a Seattle homeowner considering a wood alternative like composite for your deck surface or railings, Trex is hard to beat. Their products offer outstanding durability, low maintenance, and a wide variety of design options to fit almost any style.
If you’d like to discuss ideas for your next deck project or learn more about how we can help, feel free to reach out to our team at Sound Painting Solutions. We’d be happy to help bring your vision to life.