What is decking like at the moment in terms of sustainability, and what sets Trex apart from other companies in the same field?
Trex, based in the United States, has been at the forefront of decking for over 30 years. Most decks in the U.S. are traditionally made of wood, which degrades over time and requires significant maintenance, including staining and sanding. Wood decks also suffer from splinters and other issues. Trex was founded on the idea of creating a better option through composite decking, which we invented over three decades ago.
Our decking is made from recycled content, including polyethylene film and wood dust, creating a product that lasts 25 to 50 years with minimal maintenance.
What sets Trex apart is our commitment to sustainability. Our decking is 95% recycled and reclaimed content, offering a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to wood. Unlike traditional wood decks, Trex decks do not fade or scratch easily, allowing homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces without constant upkeep. This combination of durability, sustainability, and low maintenance positions Trex as a leader in the industry.
Do clients have to pay a premium for Trex's composite decking compared to traditional wood decking?
Yes, there is a cost difference between Trex's composite decking and traditional wood decking. While wood decks are initially cheaper, their lifetime value is significantly lower due to the maintenance costs and shorter lifespan. Trex's entry-level products are designed to be priced around twice the price of a wood pressure-treated deck. This pricing strategy makes it an attractive option for consumers considering the long-term benefits and cost savings associated with composite decking.
Over time, Trex decks provide better value due to their durability and minimal maintenance requirements. Many consumers who start with Trex decking on their first home often return for higher-end Trex products when they build another deck, appreciating the variety of colors and enhanced aesthetics available. Trex’s focus on delivering a sustainable and superior product ensures long-term satisfaction for our customers.
How did Trex innovate composite decking, and what technological advancements are you leveraging today?
Trex's origin story is rooted in recycling. One of our founders, passionate about recycling, experimented with mixing bread bags (plastic film) with wood dust, which led to the creation of composite decking. Initially, this idea was supported by Mobil Oil Company, which had access to recyclable plastics. Eventually, Trex became an independent company in the early 1990s and has been public ever since.
Innovation continues to drive Trex. Early Trex products were limited in color and had some performance issues. Today, our decking looks more like natural wood, thanks to advancements in grain patterns, colors, and textures. We’ve also improved performance with better resistance to stains and fading. Additionally, we’ve introduced heat mitigation technology to keep decks cooler in hot weather. Trex is constantly exploring new materials and technologies to enhance both the aesthetics and performance of our products.
How does Trex maintain its edge as other companies also become greener?
Trex leverages its extensive experience with recycled products to stay ahead of the competition. Our sourcing team's expertise in finding new streams of recyclable materials, such as agricultural plastics and industrial scraps, keeps us innovative. We focus on processing know-how to transform these materials into high-quality decking products.
Our commitment to sustainability and innovation is deeply ingrained in our company culture. We continuously seek out new opportunities to incorporate recycled materials and improve our manufacturing processes. This ongoing dedication to sustainability and innovation ensures that Trex remains a leader in the industry, even as other companies strive to become greener.
What are Trex's operations like outside the United States, and how do other regions compare in terms of sustainability awareness?
Trex operates globally, with significant markets in the UK, Europe, Australia, and smaller presences in Latin America and South America. In regions like Europe and Australia, there is a stronger appreciation for sustainability compared to the U.S. European consumers, in particular, often ask about the lifecycle of Trex products and their environmental impact, including what happens to Trex decking at the end of its life.
While Trex products can be recycled and turned into new decking, the logistical challenge lies in collecting old decks. In regions where sustainability is a priority, consumers are more engaged with these end-of-life considerations. Trex is exploring ways to address these logistical challenges, including pilot projects with contractors to recycle old Trex decks.
How has consumer interest in sustainability evolved, and what are Trex's future plans to leverage this trend?
Consumer interest in sustainability has grown significantly over the years. When I joined Trex in 2009, sustainability was not a major factor in consumer decisions. However, by 2016-2017, consumers began actively asking about the environmental impact of decking materials. In Europe, sustainability concerns are even more pronounced, with consumers considering factors like greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.
Trex plans to continue leveraging this trend by educating consumers about our recycled content and sustainable practices. Our NextTREX team engages with communities, schools, and organizations to promote recycling and sustainability. We are also focused on expanding our market presence internationally, where sustainability is a key consideration for consumers.
What is Trex's vision for the future of decking and the company itself?
The future of decking involves continuously pushing the boundaries of materials and technology. Our latest products, like the signature decking with lamination, offer advanced aesthetics that mimic natural wood, including endangered tropical hardwoods. We are also exploring ways to improve slip resistance, durability in marine environments, and overall performance.
Trex's vision is to remain at the forefront of sustainability and innovation in the decking industry. We aim to create decking products that not only meet but exceed consumer expectations for performance and environmental responsibility. Our commitment to using recycled materials and reducing environmental impact will continue to drive our growth and success in the years to come.
