Updated for 2026 based on real Trex deck installs by Riverview Decks.
Planning to build or replace a deck in 2026? You’re probably curious about the latest Trex decking costs, how they’ve changed, and what to expect by the end of the year.
In this article, we’ll cover Trex decking costs in 2026 and help you determine if this is the best year to buy composite materials and start your decking project.
Let’s get started!
Trex Decking Price Snapshot (2026)
The average cost of a Trex deck in the United States is around $12,000-$19,000, depending on size, series, and features included.
- Material cost: Trex decking boards cost $5–$15 per square foot, depending on the series (Enhance, Select, or Transcend).
- Installation cost: Labor alone ranges from $8–$22 per square foot for standard installations.
- Main price drivers: Your deck's square footage, the Trex series you choose, whether you need new framing and posts, the complexity of the layout, your local labor market, and permit fees in your area.
A small 144 sq. ft. Trex deck typically runs $6,500–$10,000. Larger or more complex builds can easily exceed $25,000–$35,000.
Trex decking is significantly less expensive than other top composite decking brands like Gorilla, Fiberon, and AZEK, but it is more pricey than wood-based decking materials.
Pricing updated for 2026. Costs are based on recent Trex deck installations and current material and labor rates. Actual prices may vary by region, deck size, and complexity.
| Budget | Trex Deck Cost (materials and install) |
|---|---|
| Low – End | $6,500 – $10,000 |
| Mid – Range | $12,000 – $19,000 |
| High – End | $25,000 – $35,000+ |
Cost of Trex Decking by Series
The low-end and high-end are determined by the quality of your Trex deck boards. Trex has three lineups: Trex Transcend, Trex Select, and Trex Enhance.
| Trex Series | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Trex Enhance | $5 – $7 |
| Trex Select | $9 – $10 |
| Trex Transcend | $13 – $15 |
Trex Decking Cost Per Square Foot
Trex decking prices run from $5 to $15 per square foot in 2026, depending on the type of boards you choose.
For installation, professional deck builders charge on average between $8 to $22 per square foot.
However, this depends on the labor rates in your area, the cost of living, the experience of the contractor and how he values his craft, and, of course, the complexity of your deck.
| Deck Square Footage | Average Trex Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 144 Square Feet | $6,500 – $10,000 |
| 300 Square Feet | $9,000 – $18,000 |
| 400 Square Feet | $18,000 – $28,000 |
Trex Decking Costs with Other Features
The cost of your Trex deck will be different based on the features you choose. A deck replacement, for example, will be less expensive than one that also needs the framing, posts, and blocks.
The costs of various feature bundles you may choose from in your deck are shown below, as well as the cost per square foot of each feature.
| Trex Feature | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Decking boards only | $5 – $15 |
| Decking and railing | $20 – $35 |
| Decking, wooden frame, no railing | $20 – $30 |
| Decking, Trex Elevate frame, no railing | $28 – $38 |
| Decking, wood frame, railing | $25 – $42 |
| Decking, Trex Elevate frame, railing | $35 – $62 |
Pros Of Composite Decking
Composite decking has become a popular choice for homeowners due to its many advantages over traditional wood decking.
Some of the pros of composite decking include:
- Low maintenance: Composite decking requires much less upkeep than traditional wood decking. You won’t have to spend time staining, sealing, or painting your deck, and it won’t splinter, crack, or rot.
- Durability: Composite decking is very durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It’s also resistant to pests, mold, and mildew.
- Eco-friendly: Composite decking is made from recycled materials, so it’s an eco-friendly choice.
- Aesthetics: Composite decking comes in a variety of colors and styles, so you can create the perfect look for your home.
Cons Of Composite Decking
Although composite decking has many benefits, there are some drawbacks to consider as well.
Some of the cons of composite decking include:
- Cost: Trex decking prices are more expensive than traditional wood decking. However, with wood costs constantly growing, the cost gap between composite and wood decks is decreasing.
- Slippery: Composite decking can be slippery, so it’s not the best choice if you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow.
- Requires more support: Composite decking is heavier than traditional wood decking, so it requires more support. This means you’ll need to add more joists to your deck frame.
- Can stain: Composite decking can stain if it gets wet or dirty.
- Not natural: Unlike wood decks, composite decking is not a natural material, so it might not look as good as a traditional wood deck.
When Trex Is NOT Worth the Price
Trex composite decking is a great investment for many homeowners. But it’s not always the right fit. Here are a few situations where Trex may not be the best choice:
- You're planning to sell soon: The premium you pay for Trex may not translate dollar-for-dollar into resale value. A clean, well-built wooden deck can be equally appealing to buyers while offering a lower upfront cost.
- Your budget is very tight: If stretching to afford Trex composite decking means cutting corners elsewhere (like underbuilding the substructure or skipping proper footings), you're better off building a solid wood deck now and upgrading later.
- You have a low-traffic deck: Trex's durability and low-maintenance benefits shine on frequently used decks. It can be difficult to justify the extra expense if you don't use your deck often.
- Your existing frame can't support it: Composite decking is heavier than wood. If you need additional structural work, it could push your project cost beyond the usual deck replacement project.
Can Trex Decking Be A DIY Project?
Composite decking might seem like a good DIY project, but it can be risky if not installed correctly. If you don’t have the right tools or experience, it’s best to leave the installation to a professional.
Composite decking is heavy and requires more support than traditional wood decking, meaning you’ll need to add more joists to your deck frame. Improper installation can weaken your deck and make it unsafe.
Another important point is that composite decking can’t be refinished. Any mistake in the design or installation can be costly and disrupt the flow of your outdoor space.
Most importantly, your deck must be safe. It’s where your loved ones will spend time, run around, and have parties. Ensuring your deck is safe for your family is crucial, and even the best DIYer may not be familiar with all the building codes for decks.
For a safe, durable, and beautiful deck, trust a professional to handle the installation.
Hiring A Professional To Install Your Composite Deck
If you’ve decided to hire a professional to install your composite deck, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1.
First, you’ll need to find a reputable contractor. Ask friends and family for recommendations, and look for online reviews. Once you’ve found a few contractors, get estimates from each one.
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Your Trex Deck With Riverview Decks
Your local deck builders from Riverview Decks are trained and experienced in installing the best Trex decking in Knoxville and East Tennessee.
We’ve installed dozens of Trex decks across the full product lineup, from budget-friendly Enhance builds to elaborate Transcend projects with custom railings and multi-level layouts.
That hands-on experience means we know where corners get cut, what mistakes look like five years later, and how to build a deck that holds up through East Tennessee summers and winters alike.
You can see examples of our work and learn more about our deck installation process here.
Request a quote today and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Or call us at (865) 801-4545 if you’re in a rush and want to talk with us directly.