Maintenance is the bane of wood decks. Eventually all wood weathers, cracks and decays. Wood-polymer lumber contains no toxic preservatives, yet lasts for years without paints or sealers.

Trex wood-polymer lumber carries a 10-year warranty against splintering, splitting, checking, rot, decay and termite damage. The company claims that accelerated aging tests have not yet shown any significant deterioration from environmental factors, such as ultraviolet radiation, heat or moisture.

You can use all your standard woodworking tools and fasteners with Trex lumber. Since the material resists splitting, you usually don't need to pre-drill holes for fasteners. Deck boards come in 5/4x6, 2x4, 2x6 and 2x8 dimensions. Standard lengths are 8 ft. and 12 ft., with 5/4x6, 2x4 and 2x6 available in 16 ft. lengths. Other dimensions are also available.

Joist spacing for Trex is similar to wood, between 16 in. and 20 in. on-center, depending on the board's thickness. However, it cannot be used for the structural framing. In addition to decking, Trex can be used for benches, picnic tables, playgrounds, docks and landscaping.

Not only does Trex extend the life of a deck without toxic preservatives, but it provides a market for recycled materials. Trex is made from 50 percent recycled plastic (garbage bags and shrink wrap) and 50 percent waste wood. The wood component, lacking from many other plastic lumber, adds strength and resists sagging.

Trex was a product of Mobil Chemical Corp., but has now become an independent operation, Trex Company, LLC.

Contact: Trex Company