Lumber and Trex Market Update: 1/29/2022
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Should You Install a Trex Deck Gate? Costs & Considerations

Backyard deck stairs with gate

You’re planning on building a new deck and realized just how many upgrades you could add to your build. It can be overwhelming at first to know what to choose, but while some upgrades are for pure aesthetics, a deck gate also serves a functional purpose.

So today, we’re going to talk all about Trex deck gates. We’ll cover why may want to consider installing one, what to expect for costs, and go into more detail about the popular Trex Signature all-aluminum gate!

Why Add a Gate to Your Deck

First, if you have pets, kids, or friends and family with kids that often visit, adding a gate to your deck will quickly become something you’ll never want to live without! Gates are a great way to make sure young children and pets stay on your deck and don’t wander off, giving you some peace of mind. 

Can You Just Use A Baby Gate?

An alternative way to keep kids on a deck is to put up a temporary baby gate. However, please keep in mind that baby gates aren’t designed to be outside, and if left exposed to the elements for too long, they can drip rust onto your deck. And metallic rust is an exception to Trex’s stain warranty, so you won’t be covered under this circumstance.

But if you choose to use a baby gate and notice rust drips, all hope is not lost! You can check out Trex’s fantastic cleaning guide on how to care for your Trex deck and remove rust. And in the worst-case scenario, we can replace a couple of deck boards with no problem.

Although, it’s cheaper to invest in a gate ahead of time, which brings us to our go-to choice.

The Trex Signature All-Aluminum Gate

Lockable swinging aluminum gate at the top of stairs of a backyard deck

There are many different gate options on the market. But the most commonly installed gate we offer is the top-of-the-line Trex Signature all-aluminum gate. It comes in black, white, or bronze, with square or round balusters and 2.5-inch gate posts.

Most importantly, the Trex deck gate is lockable and has two keys, which is a must as some toddlers are little escape artists!

Installations

You can install a Trex deck gate on any railing: composite, aluminum, and even wood. It’s constructed so you can install one on any stairs with a maximum opening of 48 inches. So keep that in mind when designing your deck because it won’t work with wider stairs. 

Of course, the gate looks fantastic on any of Trex’s railings, including both Trex’s 2.5-inch aluminum railing posts and Trex’s 4.5-inch composite railing posts. For the composite 4.5-inch railing posts, even though the gate posts are 2.5 inches and made from aluminum, the combination next to composite looks beautiful.

Price 

Now for cost, the average price to install a Trex deck gate is $970. But if you have a tighter budget during the initial build, it’s easy to install one at a later date.

Also, you can remove a Trex gate at any time in the future. They’re simple to install using two hinges screwed into the railing posts. But if you decide to take out the gate in the future, your posts will be left with two holes. However, we can replace the railing posts with a bit of work if you’ve decided to let the gate go for good.

PRO TIP: Set Up Alerts

One of our clients was concerned about security and wanted to hear an audible alert if their gate was open unexpectedly. They had a Ring Alarm system already installed, so they added a Ring exterior gate sensor and connected it to their Alexa (within the Alexa app). Now, Alexa immediately says, “The deck’s gate has opened” whenever their gate opens. Cool!

Conclusion on Trex Deck Gates

Adding a gate to your deck is almost always a good decision if you have kids or pets. And the Trex Signature all-aluminum gate is the perfect addition to any deck and railing combination. It’s easy to install anytime, remove if it’s no longer needed, and lockable for that extra layer of protection. 

What Next?

Are you looking for a deck builder? Let’s talk!

At Custom Deck Creations, we work with clients across SE Michigan to design and build their dream decks using Trex. We’d love to hear all about your ideas for your deck and how you want to use the space. And we’ll handle all paperwork and permits so you can sit back and relax while we bring your vision to life! 

Please get in touch! We’ll chat about your project and give you a free-over-the-phone estimate. Or, feel free to check out some of our most recent projects first!

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About Custom Deck Creations

From design to installation, Custom Deck Creations combines beautiful decks with fair pricing and unparalleled customer service. Our designs stand out, while our install processes exceeds expectations. We are a certified TrexPro Platinum builder. Custom Deck Creations is located in and serves Southeast Michigan. 

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Lumber and Trex Market Costs Update

Last Updated: 1/29/2022
Custom Deck Creations

A brief look into the current and expected inflation

Quick Summary

Lumber rose +28% locally from November 2021 to January 2022, and is expected for another significant double-digit increase impacting us in June 2022. We’re also anticipating a cost increase  from Trex around that  same time frame. Depending on size and material selection, decks are anticipated to increase in cost an average of $2,000 to $4,000 come June 2022. Custom Deck Creations is currently scheduling projects for April/May, before we feel these cost increases. Schedule a quote with us today to lock in today’s costs.

For a more detailed look into the market, please continue reading:

Lumber

The lumber market continues to see pressure on the supply side. Canadian truck drivers are protesting COVID vaccine mandates, threatening to disrupt deliveries in Canada and possibly into the US. Fuel prices are also increasing. Overall demand for Southern Yellow Pine (pressure treated lumber used here in MI) remains steady. Mills are not sitting on a lot of inventory. Lead times from mills to dealers are getting extended.

Pressure treated lumber costs increased locally +28% from November 2021 to January 2022.

Lumber is expected to increase another ~+40% in June 2022. 

Custom Deck Creations is currently scheduling projects for April & May 2022, before we’re impacted by these increased costs.

Trex

Data from Trex distributors nationwide are seeing a steady growth in purchases even through winter.

Trex continues to see huge demand increases nationwide. 

Our Interpretation

Lumber will continue to rise in price throughout 2022. We don’t believe we’ll see pre-2022 lumber pricing any time soon.

In 2021 Trex put out 4 separate approximately +10% price increases. We believe more are to be expected in 2022. We do not expect Trex to ever lower their pricing.

No Inflationary Clause

Custom Deck Creations does not have an inflationary clause. Lock in today’s lumber and Trex costs with a signed agreement which puts you on our schedule. We will not charge you more even if our costs go up.

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