The 5 Types of Trex Decking: What Are the Differences?

There are five lines or types of Trex Decking, all of which can transform your outdoor space into the yard of your dreams where you’ll happily spend your days.

But what’s the difference between these Trex decking options? And are they all the same quality?

Like most things in life, Trex classifies their levels of decking as:

Trex Signature®: Distinctively durable and luxuriously crafted with eco-friendly composite made out of recycled and reclaimed materials, Trex Signature decking sets a new standard for style in outdoor living. Offering homeowners and designers alike a new design material crafted with the most realistic wood grain that replicates the elegance of exotic hardwood, all backed by a 50-year warranty. Signature is Trex’s most scratch-resistant decking board.
Trex Lineage™: As a newer addition to the Trex family, the Lineage line is designed with advanced technology for superior durability, including enhanced scratch resistance. It’s positioned as a premium product, offering high performance with luxury aesthetics. This line uses heat-mitigating technology that makes it the coolest decking yet. Backed by a 50-year warranty.
Trex Transcend®: This line is known for its deep wood-grain pattern and luxury colors. Transcend decking is engineered with a three-sided shell technology that provides advanced protection against fading, staining, scratching, and mold. It’s highly durable and among the higher-priced offerings from Trex. Backed by a 50-year warranty.
Trex Select®: Offering a simpler approach to high-performance decking, Select has two-sided shell protection against fading and staining. It’s designed to be a middle-ground option, offering a balance of performance and value. Its scratch resistance is good but may not be as robust as the higher-tier Transcend or Lineage. Backed by a 35-year warranty.
Trex Enhance®: Positioned as an entry-level product, Enhance offers the durability of composite decking at a more affordable price point. It features a three-sided shell for protection against fading and staining. While it offers good scratch resistance, it’s designed for those seeking Trex quality with more basic needs and budget constraints. Backed by a 25-year warranty.

Which is best for you? And how do they compare to each other? Stick around, and we’ll find out.

How the Types of Trex Are Similar

Before we jump into what makes each line of Trex unique, let’s touch on how they’re all similar.

Every tier of Trex decking is capped, which gives them the same fade and stain resistance. They also all come with a 25 to 50-year fade and stain warranty, on top of the standard 25-year limited warranty on almost all Trex products.

The underlying structure for each tier of Trex decking lines is all framed the same way, and they all can be installed utilizing hidden fasteners for the decking boards.

Differences Between Trex Decking Types

With the similarities covered, the key differences between the types of Trex decking come down to three things.

Color Selection
What color does Trex come in? There are plenty to choose from, but each color option is unique to the individual line of Trex.

Durability
The composition of the cap is different on each tier. Consequently, each type of Trex board will vary in how effectively it resists scratching and marring. More on this below.

Profile
Trex boards come in either a scalloped or solid profile, depending on the line. Also, more on this later.

Let’s dive into the details of each to help you decide which is best for you.

Trex Signature® (Luxury)

Trex Signature decking is the pinnacle of the Trex decking lines, representing the highest tier of quality and aesthetics offered by the brand. This line is designed for those seeking the very best in their outdoor decking, offering unparalleled beauty and durability.

Trex Signature boards are crafted with a high-performance shell technology, ensuring:

Exceptional resistance to fading, staining, and scratching, making them perfect for high-traffic areas and for families with pets and children.
A deep, wood-like grain pattern that captures the natural beauty and charm of traditional wood decking, but with the added benefits of composite materials.

The Trex Signature line is available in multiple luxurious and sophisticated colors, each carefully chosen to complement any outdoor space and architectural style. These boards also feature a unique, sophisticated design, making them a standout choice for those looking to elevate their outdoor living spaces.

Key features of the Trex Signature line include:

Advanced shell technology for enhanced durability and protection against the elements.
A selection of premium, rich colors with deep wood-like grain patterns.
The capability to integrate seamlessly with Trex’s railing systems, offering a cohesive and stylish look throughout your outdoor space.

While the Trex Signature decking is at a higher price point compared to the Trex Select or Trex Enhance lines, the investment reflects its superior quality, longevity, and the luxurious aesthetic it brings to outdoor spaces. It is an ideal choice for those who prioritize both beauty and durability in their decking materials.

Trex Signature Offers:

Unmatched durability and resistance to fading, staining, and scratching.
Luxurious, deep wood-like grain patterns in a range of premium colors.
Compatibility with Trex’s railing systems for a seamless and sophisticated outdoor living area.

Signature decking represents the epitome of outdoor luxury and performance, making it the perfect choice for homeowners looking to create an exceptional outdoor living area that will endure the test of time.

Trex Lineage™ (Premium)

Lineage stands at the pinnacle of the Trex decking tiers, embodying the ultimate in composite decking luxury and innovation. It is designed for those who accept no compromises in their pursuit of the perfect outdoor living space, offering unmatched durability and aesthetic appeal.

Trex Lineage™ boards are characterized by their:

Multi-Tonal Colors and Superior Aesthetics: Featuring a range of sophisticated, multi-tonal colors, Lineage boards are crafted to mimic the authentic look and feel of natural wood with unparalleled depth and dimension. Each board is unique, providing a truly custom look to every deck.
Advanced Technology for Ultimate Durability: Equipped with the latest in composite decking technology, Lineage boards boast a high-performance shell that wraps around three sides of the board, providing superior protection against the elements, fading, and staining.
Enhanced Scratch Resistance: Lineage decks are engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use, making them highly resistant to scratches and scuffs. This ensures that your deck remains pristine and beautiful for years to come.
Solid Profile for Versatile Use: The solid profile of Lineage boards allows for a variety of installation options, including the use of hidden fasteners for a seamless finish. This profile also enables the boards to serve as cocktail railings, adding functionality and elegance to your deck’s design.

Trex Lineage™ Offers

A selection of sophisticated, multi-tonal colors that offer the beauty of natural wood without the maintenance.
The highest level of durability among the Trex lines, thanks to advanced material technology.
A solid profile that not only enhances the deck’s aesthetics but also provides versatility in design and installation.

The Trex Lineage line is the choice for those who demand the best in terms of both performance and appearance. Its unparalleled quality and innovative features make it the most sought-after decking solution, ensuring that your outdoor space is not only functional but also a true extension of your home’s luxury and style.

Trex Transcend® (Best)

Trex Transcend® is celebrated as a superior choice within the Trex decking tiers, offering a harmonious blend of durability and beauty. It offers homeowners seeking a high-performance decking solution that doesn’t sacrifice aesthetic appeal for resilience.

Trex Transcend® boards distinguish themselves with:

Rich, Vibrant Color Options: Transcend decking comes in a wide array of deep, vibrant colors, ranging from earthy classics to tropical hues, all designed to emulate the natural variation and beauty of real wood. This variety ensures a perfect match for any home exterior or design preference.
Unmatched Durability with Three-Sided Shell Protection: Featuring a three-sided protective shell, Transcend boards resist fading, staining, scratching, and mold more effectively than traditional composite or wood decking. This comprehensive coverage ensures your deck’s color and finish last for decades.
High Scratch Resistance: Engineered for superior durability, Transcend decking is highly resistant to scratches, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and active households. Your deck will maintain its pristine appearance through years of enjoyment.
Solid Profile for Diverse Applications: The solid profile of Transcend boards allows for creative and versatile deck designs, including the option to use hidden fastening systems for a sleek, screw-free surface. Additionally, the robust nature of these boards makes them suitable for use as cocktail railings, enhancing the functionality and aesthetic of your outdoor space.

Trex Transcend® Offers:

A broad selection of rich, deep colors inspired by natural wood.
Enhanced durability and protection against the elements, with a three-sided shell that guards against fading, staining, and scratching.
A solid profile that supports a variety of installation options and design applications, including the ability to create a seamless, screw-free deck surface.

This is the ideal choice for homeowners who desire a deck that combines the timeless beauty of natural wood with the latest advancements in composite decking technology. With Transcend, you can create an outdoor living space that is both luxurious and long-lasting, ensuring that your deck remains a centerpiece of your home for years to come.

Trex Select® (Better)

Trex Select stands as a solid “good” option within the Trex decking tiers, striking an ideal balance between performance, aesthetics, and value. It delivers durability and simplicity, offering a streamlined selection of colors and features for homeowners looking to upgrade their outdoor spaces without compromising on quality.

Trex Select® Features:

Simplified Color Palette: Trex Select® comes in a range of five easy-to-coordinate, solid colors. These hues complement any home exterior and provide a timeless look for your deck
Durable Composite Material: Built with the same high-performance shell technology as the higher-tier lines, Trex Select decking is resistant to fading, staining, and mold. This ensures your deck maintains its beauty for years to come, with minimal maintenance required.
Solid Profile for Versatility: The solid profile of Trex Select® boards allows for a variety of installation options. This includes the ability to use hidden fasteners for a sleek, screw-free deck surface, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your outdoor living area.
Value-Focused Performance: While Trex Select offers as a more budget-friendly option, it doesn’t skimp on quality. Homeowners can expect the durability and low maintenance benefits of composite decking, making it an excellent investment for those seeking both value and performance.

In Summary, Trex Select® Offers:

A curated selection of five solid colors, designed for easy mixing and matching.
Enhanced durability with a protective shell that guards against the elements.
A solid board profile that supports hidden fastening systems, allowing for a clean, seamless look.
An attractive price point that makes the lasting benefits of composite decking accessible to a wider range of homeowners.

Trex Select decking is the go-to choice for those looking to enjoy the advantages of composite decking—such as longevity, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal—while adhering to a more conservative budget. It represents a smart compromise, delivering the quality and innovation Trex is known for at a price point that makes upgrading your outdoor space more attainable.

Trex Enhance® (Good)

Trex Enhance is the entry-level tier in the Trex family of decking products, offering an appealing combination of performance and affordability. Designed for those new to composite decking or working within a tighter budget, Enhance provides the essential benefits of composite decking at a more accessible price point.

Trex Enhance® Features:

Vibrant Color Selection: The Enhance line divides into two collections: Enhance Basics and Enhance Naturals. Enhance Basics offers a selection of three classic, monotone colors, while Enhance Naturals expands the palette with five multi-tonal hues that mimic the natural variations of wood.
Reliable Durability: Both Enhance collections feature a protective composite shell that resists fading, staining, and mold, ensuring your deck looks great year after year with minimal upkeep.
Scalloped Profile for Efficiency: Enhance boards are feature with a scalloped underside, reducing material usage and cost without compromising the structural integrity of the deck. This design makes Enhance lightweight and easy to handle during installation.
Deep Wood Grain Pattern: Enhance decking boasts deeper grain patterns, providing a more authentic wood-like appearance. This texture not only enhances the visual appeal of your deck but also helps to mask minor scratches and wear over time.

In Summary, Trex Enhance® Offers:

A choice between Basics and Naturals collections, with a total of eight color options to suit any style preference.
The essential benefits of composite decking, including durability and low maintenance, at an entry-level price.
A scalloped board profile that maintains performance while making Enhance an economical choice.
Enhanced aesthetics with deep wood grain patterns, making it an attractive option for homeowners looking to upgrade from traditional wood decking.

Trex Enhance is ideal for those seeking the practical benefits of composite decking—such as long-term durability and low maintenance—without the higher cost associated with premium tiers. It’s a smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners who don’t want to sacrifice quality for affordability, offering a beautiful and durable decking solution that stands the test of time.

Trex Decking Prices

Now that we’ve explored the unique features and benefits of the five Trex decking levels, it’s time to delve into the aspect most homeowners are curious about: the cost. While it’s challenging to provide an exact price without specific project details, we can offer some guidance to help you estimate the potential investment for your new deck.

The overall cost of your deck will largely depend on the choice of Trex decking material:

Trex Decking Material

Enhance Basics: Lowest Investment
Enhance Naturals: Slightly Higher Investment
Select: Medium Investment
Transcend: Higher Investment
Lineage: Premium Investment
Signature: Highest Investment

For an average-sized deck of about 300-325 square feet, the investment could range from approximately $19,000 to $24,000. This estimate can fluctuate based on additional features, the complexity of the deck design, and the specific Trex decking line you select. To provide a clearer picture of how the costs compare among the Trex decking lines, here are some general guidelines (note that actual prices can vary based on your location and market conditions):

Trex Decking Lines General Guidelines

Enhance Naturals:

Enhance Naturals might cost around $1,200 more than Enhance Basics due to its more varied color options and enhanced aesthetics.

Select decking:

Select decking is position as a mid-tier option and could be approximately $1,500 to $2,000 more than Enhance Naturals, offering a balance between cost and performance with solid colors and a durable finish.

Transcend:

Transcend known for its premium quality and extensive color choices, may add about $2,000 to $3,000 to the cost compared to Select or Enhance Naturals, reflecting its superior durability and aesthetic appeal.

Lineage:

Lineage as a high-tier option with advanced technology and premium features, could increase your investment by an additional $2,500 to $4,000 over Transcend, embodying a high level of luxury and performance.

Signature Decking:

Signature Decking establishing itself as the luxury option in the Trex decking lineup, can potentially add $3,000 to $5,000 on top of the Lineage cost. As the epitome of elegance and the most sophisticated choice available, Signature decking combines unmatched durability with the most exquisite aesthetics and innovative design features. It’s useful for those who seek the ultimate in decking luxury, offering exclusive colors, unparalleled grain patterns, and the highest level of resistance to the elements.

The progression in pricing reflects not just an increase in the quality and longevity of the materials but also an enhancement in the visual appeal and the technology used in the decking materials. As you move from Enhance Basics to Signature, you’re investing in more than just a deck; you’re investing in an outdoor living experience that can significantly enhance the value and enjoyment of your home.

These price differentials highlight the range of options Trex offers to fit various budgets and design preferences, allowing you to choose the perfect decking material for your outdoor living space.

If you’re in the Southeast Michigan region and are ready to get a more accurate estimate, we offer a free, no-obligation estimate.

Which Type of Trex Decking is Best For You?

You have a big yet exciting decision to make! And we hope this post will help you come to the most suitable choice. Remember, all types of Trex decking are highly durable, stain and fade-resistant, and come with a 25-year warranty, so really, you can’t go wrong.

But try asking yourself these questions:

How much wear and tear will my deck receive in the coming years?
What color will add to the overall design or aesthetic I’m going for?
What’s my overall budget?

To give you an idea of what’s most popular, of all the decks we build at Custom Deck Creations, about 45% are Enhance Naturals, 45% are Transcend, the remaining 10% are Enhance Basics or Select.

The Bottom Line

Are you having a hard time deciding? Explore our gallery to find inspiration!

If you have a question or you’re ready to take the next step, please get in touch! Our crews at Custom Deck Creations have over 65+ combined experience and are more than happy to walk you through the process!