Maintaining a wood deck requires a lot of work; and eventually, the wood will warp, rot, and splinter. So why not replace it with beautiful and durable composite decking that will keep its good looks for many years to come, without all the work.
Unlike wood decking, a composite deck is durable, low maintenance, and won’t crack or split.
Trex Enhance is a composite deck board that is ideal for backyard do-it-yourselfers because it’s available at your local Home Depot and doesn’t require any special tools for installation.
To begin your deck makeover, remove the old worn wooden boards. As they come up, be sure to check the structure underneath to ensure that it’s sturdy before you continue. Then, install new Trex Enhance composite deck boards.
Try using hidden fasteners like the Trex Hideaway system for a smooth surface. These clips tuck into the groove on the side of each board and are screwed down to the joists—holding that board, and the next one, securely in place.
This Trex railing system, called Transcend, also provides an attractive finishing touch and has the same extreme durability as the deck boards.
You now have a deck that looks like new and will resist fading, staining, and mold—thanks to the Trex Enhance protective shell. In fact, it’ll clean up with only soap and water, and you’ll never again spend a Saturday staining the deck—ever.
And for you, that means a beautiful outdoor living space you can enjoy for years to come, without tons hard work.
Watch the video above to find out more about DIY-friendly Trex Enhance decking, Hideaway hidden fasteners, and Transcend railings.
what is the best way to take up a deck that has been screwed down for 25yrs
Hi, Butch!
First, we would need to know more information. What materials make up the deck?
i want to replace my cedar decking with a composite material . My deck butts up to my patio. Since the composite is a different thickness of 1/2 inch i now have a lip where people will trip. Also i will have a step down coming out from my sliding glass door. How do make it flush, is there a saddle or anything like that. My foundation is good and dont want to replace it. It’s 16 inches on center do i have to add boards to the sides to make it 12 inches ??
Hi, Thomas,
You might consider using the same composite wood to create a tapered transition strip. You can cut it with a table saw or circular saw to go from the half inch down to nothing.
Good luck!
I will follow up on Butch’s question, since I have the same one. My deck is 1×6 treated pine, screwed into 2×10 joists and in my climate, that material doesn’t make it 25 years. It has only been 15.
Hi, Court,
Danny says, “Start by removing as many screws as you possibly can and then use a large crowbar to remove the boards. It may be necessary to use a hacksaw to cut any remaining screws that you’re unable to back out.
Good luck!”
My old deck is 24″ on center and lengths vary from 8 ft to 16 ft and boards are 2×6. How can I install trex?
Hi, Mike,
Trex has an excellent step-by-step guide right here: https://www.trex.com/build-your-deck/diy/how-to/
Good luck!
I am trying to figure out how many boards I would need to replace my existing boards. Has wood – 2 x 6 now. Dimensions are 41′ X 5′ 1″ With
3 – 6′ x 11.25″ steps as well as a step down at the door that is 4′ x 22.50.
ATM, the main deck is done with 2 12′ boards plus a 17′ board for each strip. I am sure we can work with other length sizing tho.
Appreciate your input.
Thank You
Hi, Edith,
Sounds like a great project!
Here’s a handy tool we developed just for your situation: https://todayshomeowner.com/board-foot-calculator/
Good luck. 🙂
How close must the supports be to convert a wood deck to a composite deck?
Hi, Tricia,
The maximum space between deck joists is about 16 inches, so you’ll need to check your deck joists and then check the product’s specs.
Also, local building codes may apply, so it’s important to talk to local officials before pursuing this project.
Good luck!
We have a cedar deck it has been up for 25 years. The floor boards need replacing. I was thinking of putting down composite boards on the floor and possible replacing the existing cedar wood on the stairs also.
The rails are in very good shape its just need to have a good stain put on the railing cedar wood. The rails on the side of the deck so you do not have to remove them to be able to the composite boards on the floor of the deck. Is this a wise move to have the deck looking better and be able to keep for an extender number of years. Please advise Thank You John Armstrong (905) 625-7993
Hi, John,
We’re fans of composite decking because of its durability and beauty.
It sounds like the ‘bones’ of your deck are in good shape, and if that’s the case, installing composite decking can give new life to your old deck.
Here’s a project that might inspire you: https://www.todayshomeowner.com/television/2019/05/13/giving-new-life-to-an-old-deck/
Good luck!