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December 22, 2023

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    Trex, a brand with excellent composite decking options, features different variations including Enhance, Transcend, and Select. Each of these decking materials has its own composition, benefits, and detriments, making them unique designs for different homes.

    In this post, you will find a breakdown of Trex Enhance and Trex Transcend, which will compare the two and help you narrow down which might be best for your home. 

    At a snapshot, Transcend is regarded as the highest quality, or best option manufactured by Trex while Enhance is at the other end of that scale with a lower price and lower overall quality. However, the choice is not as simple as that as each presents its own set of negatives and positives. Between the two, you will find a scaling difference in price, use, safety, and longevity making each a unique but viable choice for your home.

    Highlights
    • An Enhance board that is 1-inch x 6 inches x 16 feet price is $32.19. For the Enhance Naturals, the pricing is similar to Trex Enhance with a 1-inch x 6 inch by 12-foot board being $35.12.
    • So while all of the Trex options resemble wood despite being composite, the Trex Enhance Naturals will be the best option.
    • Both Trex Enhance and Trex Transcend are fire-safe according to the universal fire rating system.
    • If you’re looking for the perfect decking to compliment your home and don’t mind paying a little extra, Trex Transcend may be the choice for your home.

    Trex Enhance Naturals

    Trex Enhance decking comes in numerous colors and designs that are adaptable for your needs and space. Like most of the Trex products, Enhance is a composite decking made from recycled materials. As such, it is extremely reliable and durable. It should not require much maintenance, energy, or money beyond the initial installation.

    Trex Enhance comes in two forms both the original Enhance and Enhance Naturals, a line created to better mimic natural wood’s appearance. Enhance Naturals comes in more colors and the artificial grain is more natural than its alternative, Enhance. All colors in the Enhance line are earth tones and should work well with any home and style.

    You will also find that Trex Enhance Naturals and Trex Enhance are fade-resistant and protect against excessive decay that may come from problems like mildew or other moisture issues. Enhance decking is scalloped during the making process and is lighter than traditional lumber, a major draw for some home DIY-ers and contractors alike. 

    Trex Transcend

    Trex Transcend is a popular decking choice that comes in two design styles, tropical and earth tones. As the name suggests, the tropical decking shade is much more vibrant and has a rich stain that contributes to the summer and tropical aesthetics. When shopping for the tropical Transcend line, names that you’ll come across include Tiki Torch, Island Mist, and Lava Rock – talk about a mood setter!

    The earth tone Enhance decking comes in fewer shades, only three compared to the topical’s five at the time of writing this comparison. Instead of wood-passing stains for a natural look, these colors in the Enhance line are paler with white and grey notes. All in all, the Enhance Trex line is designed to have more of a luxurious feel than abiding by the rules of appearing natural.

    Trex Enhance vs Trex Transcend: Cost Comparison

    The exact price for the Trex decking will depend on where it is purchased, however, a general comparison for department store prices is below.

    Trex Enhance and Trex Enhance Naturals

    An Enhance board that is 1-inch x 6 inches x 16 feet (thickness x width x height) price is $32.19. For the Enhance Naturals, the pricing is similar to Trex Enhance with a 1-inch x 6 inch by 12-foot board being $35.12.

    On par with the increased details and artistry going into the Enhance Naturals, the increased price makes sense.

    Trex Transcend

    Transcend is the more expensive option overall. When it comes to a board of transcending that is 1-inch x 6 inches x 12 feet (thickness x width x height) the price begins at $61.12 for the color spiced rum.

    This means that you can receive nearly double the decking boards for the same price as Transcend. However, this is to be expected as the Trex transcend is meant to be a more quality product serving a luxury market when compared to Enhance.

    Trex Enhance vs Trex Transcend: Warranty Comparison

    Trex Enhance does not seem to have its own warranty, however, Trex does have a very limited residential warranty for nearly all of its products, including Trex Enhance and Trex Enhance Naturals.

    Trex Transcend offers a 25-year warranty limited to residential use and protects your decking from fading and staining over time. Because Transcend is such a durable product aimed to protect against losing those vibrant colors, the warranty will cover limited issues regarding just that – stains or fading not caused by abuse or neglect.

    Trex Enhance vs Trex Transcend: Natural Appearance Comparison

    Even if you’re opting for Trex decking as an alternative to wood decking for its limited maintenance or similar benefits, you may still want the natural wood look. When it comes down to Trex Enhance or Trex Transcend for a natural wood-like appearance, Trex Enhance, specifically the Naturals line takes the cake.

    Special attention to detail is dedicated to these decking boards and they’re meant to mimic the real thing. So while all of the Trex options resemble wood despite being composite, the Trex Enhance Naturals will be the best option.

    Trex Enhance vs Trex Transcend: Fire Rating Comparison

    Both Trex Enhance and Trex Transcend are fire-safe according to the universal fire rating system. However, Trex Enhance decking earns a Class C (Class III) rating while Trex Transcend earns a Class B (Class II) fire rating. While neither are fireproof, this is an important figure for families whose number one concern is safety. For reference a Class A or Class I rating is the best as that fire is easiest to put out and least likely to spread.

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    Trex Enhance vs Trex Transcend: Final Thoughts

    Both Trex Enhance and Transcend offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood that because it is not natural, is not prone to typical wear and tear. Additionally, both require little upkeep and are resilient against fading, scratching, cracks, and splitting. Trex Enhance is a more common and popular option with homeowners appreciating the natural beauty and hybrid nature of the product. However, Transcend adds a touch of luxuriousness and sets the tone for a fun outdoor space that Trex Enhance can otherwise not provide.

    In general, Trex Enhance flooring is best for those that want wood decking without the hassle that comes from owning it over time. With Trex Enhance Naturals, you will find an option that boasts an extremely wood-like appearance without fuss and maintenance. Trex Enhance may also be better for those looking for a more affordable option because the cost is a fraction of Transcends, though you lose durability in that process.

    Trex Transcend is best for people who are looking for a luxurious feel and do not care much for the natural appearance. This product also offers more flexibility and as such, there are more colors, styles, and finishes to choose between. If you’re looking for the perfect decking to compliment your home and don’t mind paying a little extra, Trex Transcend may be the choice for your home. 

    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield

    Matt Greenfield is an experienced writer specializing in home improvement topics. He has a passion for educating and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their properties. Matt's writing focuses on a range of topics, including windows, flooring, HVAC, and construction materials. With a background in construction and home renovation, Matt is well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in the industry. His articles offer practical advice and expert insights that help readers tackle their home improvement projects with confidence. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a seasoned professional, Matt's writing is sure to provide valuable guidance and inspiration.

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    photo of Roxanne Downer

    Roxanne Downer

    Editor

    Roxanne Downer is a commerce editor at Today’s Homeowner, where she tackles everything from foundation repair to solar panel installation. She brings more than 15 years of writing and editing experience to bear in her meticulous approach to ensuring accurate, up-to-date, and engaging content. She’s previously edited for outlets including MSN, Architectural Digest, and Better Homes & Gardens. An alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, Roxanne is now an Oklahoma homeowner, DIY enthusiast, and the proud parent of a playful pug.

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