Building a Trex Deck
Building a custom Trex deck can be an exciting home improvement project that adds both beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. Trex is a popular brand of composite decking known for its durability, low maintenance, and environmentally friendly materials. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you plan and build your custom Trex deck:
Design and Planning:
Set Your Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on your Trex deck. This will help you make design and material choices. Just so you are not sticker shocked a 12x12 Trex deck with a Westbury Railing installed can range from $15,000-$25,000. This of course is just a range, and many things can come into play such as Soil Conditions, Elevation, Permitting Cost, Material Cost, Material Shortages, and Weather to name a few.
Create a Design: Sketch out your deck design, considering factors like size, shape, layout, and any additional features such as stairs, railings, and built-in seating. If you are struggling with what size of deck you want then the best thing to do is measure your dining room, or your living room. I used this method for years and it works. It will give you a feel for size since you have furniture already set up. Then we will design the deck for you with cost and waste in mind.
Check Local Building Codes: Contact your local building department to learn about any permits or regulations required for your deck project.
Gather Materials and Tools:
Decking Materials: Purchase Trex decking boards, as well as any necessary hardware like screws, nails, and joist hangers.
Tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including a circular saw, drill, level, measuring tape, framing square, and safety equipment such as goggles and gloves.
Prepare the Site:
Clear the Area: Remove any obstacles or vegetation from the area where the deck will be built.
Dig Footings (if needed): Before you pour concrete, you may need to have a city inspector check the depth of the hole. Depending on your design and local codes, you may need to dig holes and pour concrete footings to support the deck's posts.
Build the Deck Frame:
Install Ledger Board: Attach a ledger board to the house, ensuring its level and securely fastened.
Set Posts: Set your deck's support posts on the footings and secure them. Once the post is plumb then you can backfill the post and pack the soil as you go. Remember that the soil is going to settle, so mound the dirt around the post at least 8” above grade.
Install Beams and Joists: Attach beams to the posts and then install joists perpendicular to the beams, ensuring proper spacing.
Install Trex Decking:
Start Decking: Begin installing the Trex decking boards, leaving a small gap between each board for expansion and drainage.
Cut and Trim: Use a circular saw to cut and trim the boards to fit the deck's dimensions.
Add Railings and Stairs:
Install Railings: Attach railing posts and balusters according to your design and local code requirements.
Build Stairs: If your deck includes stairs, construct them with sturdy stringers and treads.
Finish and Maintain:
Clean and Seal: Periodically clean your Trex deck with a mild soap and water solution. Trex decks don't require staining or sealing, but cleaning helps maintain their appearance.
Inspect Regularly: Check for loose fasteners, damaged boards, or other issues, and make necessary repairs.
Enjoy Your Deck: Your custom Trex deck is now ready to be enjoyed! Add outdoor furniture and decorations to make it a comfortable and inviting space.
Remember to follow Trex's installation guidelines and consult local building codes throughout the project to ensure a safe and code-compliant deck. If you're not experienced in construction, then I recommend calling us. We are the experts!
