TimberTech® vs Trex®: The Complete Decking Comparison Guide for New Home Builds

Planning a new home build in Virginia means making choices that will impact your property’s beauty, value, and maintenance for decades. When it comes to outdoor living, TimberTech® (by AZEK, now part of James Hardie Industries) and Trex® are the two most trusted names in composite and PVC decking. Both brands offer a range of collections, colors, and features, but which is right for your new home? This guide breaks down the differences—so you can make a confident, informed decision for your dream deck.

Based in Charlottesville, VA, Commonwealth Contractors are established experts in installing both TimberTech and Trex® decking for new home builds and luxury renovations. If you have any questions after reading this guide, please reach out.

Brand Backgrounds: TimberTech and Trex® at a Glance

TimberTech and Trex have shaped the composite decking industry, but their histories and product philosophies differ. TimberTech, founded in 1997 and now under the James Hardie Industries umbrella, is known for its innovation in both capped polymer (PVC) and composite decking. The company’s acquisition by James Hardie in 2025 has further expanded its reach and product development capabilities. Trex®, established in 1996 in Virginia, pioneered the use of recycled materials in composite decking and remains a leader in sustainability and product reliability. Both brands have extensive dealer networks and strong reputations for quality and customer support.

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Both companies are industry leaders, but TimberTech® offers both capped polymer (PVC) and composite decking, while Trex® focuses exclusively on composite boards made from 95% recycled materials.

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Material Science: What’s Under the Surface?

TimberTech® Decking Materials

TimberTech’s® product lines are split between capped polymer (PVC) and capped composite. The AZEK ®line is 100% synthetic polymer, making it highly resistant to moisture, mold, and insects. TimberTech’s® composite lines blend recycled wood fibers and plastic, capped for extra durability. This dual approach allows TimberTech® to offer solutions for both premium and value-focused projects.

Trex® Decking Materials

Trex uses a blend of 95% recycled wood fibers and plastic film for all its decking, with a protective polymer shell. There are no PVC options in the Trex® lineup, but their composite formula is renowned for its eco-friendliness and proven performance.

• TimberTech AZEK® (PVC): 100% synthetic, best for high-moisture or coastal environments.
• TimberTech® Composite: Recycled wood/plastic blend, capped for durability.
• Trex® Composite: 95% recycled wood/plastic blend, capped for durability.

Decking Collections and Color Options: Aesthetic Choices for Every Home

Both brands offer a wide range of collections and colors, but their approaches to style and finish differ. TimberTech’s® premium lines (Vintage, Landmark, Legacy) are known for their realistic hardwood looks and matte finishes, while Trex’s Transcend® and Signature® collections deliver rich, multi-tonal tropical and contemporary aesthetics.

TimberTech® Collections

• AZEK (PVC)®: Vintage®, Landmark®, Harvest®
• Composite: PRO Legacy®, PRO Reserve®, PRO Terrain®, EDGE Prime+®, EDGE Premier®

Popular TimberTech® colors include Coastline (weathered gray), Mahogany (rich reddish-brown), and French White Oak (light, neutral tan).

Trex® Collections

• Transcend® (Premium): Island Mist, Tiki Torch, Havana Gold, Spiced Rum, Lava Rock, and more
• Select® (Mid-Range): Pebble Grey, Winchester Grey, Saddle, Woodland Brown, Madeira
• Enhance® (Entry-Level): Foggy Wharf, Rocky Harbor, Toasted Sand, Clam Shell, Beach Dune, Saddle
• Signature® (Ultra-Premium): Whidbey (cool, misty gray), Ocracoke (deep, rich brown)

Choosing the right Trex® collection and color is one of the most exciting parts of designing your new deck. From the rich, multi-tonal hues of Transcend® to the sleek, modern shades of Signature®, Trex® offers a range of options to suit every style and budget. If you’re ready to explore all the available colors and find the perfect match for your home, check out our full Trex® Color Selection Guide.

Durability, Maintenance, and Performance: How Do They Hold Up?

Virginia’s climate can be tough on outdoor materials. Both TimberTech® and Trex® are engineered for long-term performance, but there are some key differences in how they handle the elements and daily wear.

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For homeowners in high-moisture or harsh environments, TimberTech AZEK® (PVC) is the top performer. For most residential applications, both TimberTech® composite and Trex® composite offer excellent durability and low maintenance.

Maintenance and Cleaning: What to Expect

One of the biggest advantages of both TimberTech® and Trex® is their low-maintenance nature. Neither requires sanding, staining, or sealing. Cleaning is as simple as using soap and water. For stain removal, both brands offer strong resistance, but prompt cleaning is always recommended for best results. Homeowners can expect to spend far less time on upkeep compared to traditional wood decks.

• Soap and water cleaning is sufficient for both brands.
• No painting or staining required.
• Both brands resist mold, mildew, and most stains.

Cost Comparison: What Will You Pay?

Budget is a key consideration for any new home build. TimberTech® AZEK (PVC) is the most premium option, with installed costs typically ranging from $12–$18 per square foot. TimberTech’s composite lines and Trex’s® composite lines are closely matched, with premium collections at $10–$15 per square foot, mid-range at $8–$12, and entry-level at $6–$10. While vinyl and wood may offer lower upfront costs, the long-term value and reduced maintenance of composite and PVC decking often make them the smarter investment for luxury and custom homes.

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Sustainability and Environmental Impact: Which Brand is Greener?

Trex® is widely recognized as the industry leader in sustainability, with all decking made from 95% recycled materials and no PVC content. The company’s manufacturing process diverts millions of pounds of plastic and wood waste from landfills each year. TimberTech® also uses recycled content in its composite lines and has robust recycling and sustainability initiatives, but its AZEK PVC line contains less recycled material. For homeowners prioritizing environmental impact, Trex is the clear winner, though both brands are far more sustainable than traditional wood decking.

• Trex®: 95% recycled content, no PVC, industry-leading environmental initiatives.
• TimberTech®: High recycled content in composite lines, moderate in PVC, strong sustainability programs.

Warranty and Manufacturer Support

TimberTech® AZEK (PVC) leads the industry with a lifetime limited warranty and a 50-year fade/stain warranty. TimberTech® composite and Trex® composite lines offer 25–50 year limited warranties, depending on the collection. Both brands have strong reputations for customer support and stand behind their products, giving homeowners peace of mind for decades to come.

Recommended Use Cases: Which Decking Fits Your Project?

Choosing between TimberTech® and Trex® depends on your priorities, climate, and design goals. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• TimberTech AZEK® (PVC): Best for luxury homes, waterfront properties, and areas with severe weather. Choose this for maximum durability, moisture resistance, and the industry’s best warranty.
• TimberTech® Composite: Ideal for mid-range to high-end homes seeking a balance of performance and cost, with a wide range of color and style options.
• Trex® Composite: Perfect for environmentally conscious homeowners and those seeking a wide range of color and style options at various price points. The new Trex Signature® Collection is especially suited for modern, high-end builds where design is paramount.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While both brands offer outstanding products, there are a few considerations. TimberTech AZEK® (PVC) comes at a higher cost and may retain heat more than composite boards, which can be a factor in full-sun installations. Trex® does not offer a PVC option, and its composite boards have slightly lower scratch resistance compared to TimberTech AZEK®. Homeowners should weigh these factors based on their specific site conditions and design goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About TimberTech® and Trex® Decking

Which brand is more environmentally friendly?

Trex® leads in sustainability, using 95% recycled materials and no PVC. TimberTech® also offers sustainable options, especially in its composite lines, but its AZEK® PVC line contains less recycled content.

Which decking is more durable?

TimberTech® AZEK (PVC) offers the highest durability, especially in moisture-prone or harsh environments. Both brands’ composite lines are highly durable for most residential applications.

Do both brands offer realistic wood looks?

Yes. Both TimberTech® and Trex® offer highly realistic wood-grain textures and multi-tonal colors, especially in their premium collections.

Can I mix and match colors or collections?

Absolutely. Many homeowners use contrasting colors for borders, inlays, or unique design features. Consult with your builder to ensure compatibility and achieve the best results.

Choose Commonwealth Contractors for Your Home Build

Whether you’re building a luxury home or a stylish family residence, the right decking makes all the difference. Commonwealth Contractors in Charlottesville, VA, are experts in both TimberTech® and Trex® installation. We’ll help you compare options, select the perfect product for your needs, and deliver a flawless outdoor living space that enhances your new home for years to come.

Ready to get started? Contact Commonwealth Contractors today to schedule a consultation and discover how our expertise, premium product selection, and commitment to quality can bring your dream deck to life.