can you burn trex decking

Always be careful not to burn yourself or your deck. Using a heat gun may result in a slight sheen at the repair site. Replace If repair work isn’t your forte, then replacing your scratched board is the next best thing. If you have a new generation of Trex decking

(post-2009), you can simply replace the damaged board.

Full Answer

Does Trex burn like wood?

So if a fire occurs, your Trex lumber will burn just like the wood on any traditional wood deck. In 2002, the California Forest Products Laboratory tested a variety of different decks, including those made of plastic, wood and composite materials.

What is Trex decking made of?

Trex decking may appear like a regular wood surface, with its lumber shape and wood grain appearance, but Trex decks actually consist of a combination of wood, plastic and sawdust. Trex decks, despite their composite quality, can still burn like natural wood surfaces, so always avoid having an open flame near the deck.

Can Trex composite decking withstand a fire?

In 2002, the California Forest Products Laboratory tested a variety of different decks, including those made of plastic, wood and composite materials. Trex composite decks withstood fire better than some other decks, particularly those made up of hollow materials.

What are the dangers of Trex decking?

Mold and mildew can cause the deck to look dirty and unappealing. Additionally, it can cause the deck to become damaged and may even be harmful to your health. To prevent these from forming on your deck, you should clean it regularly with trex decking products.

Can you burn Trex decking in a fire pit?

Wood burning fire pits are not recommended on top of Trex decking unless using a product called DeckProtect™. Wood burning fire pits can damage the decking due to the extreme heat from the bottom of the fire pit and/or burning embers “shooting” onto the decking.

Can you safely burn composite decking?

Composite decking is not fire-resistant. It will burn and become deformed if exposed to high levels of heat. Composite decking is designed to slow flame spread, with most having a class C flame rating, similar to wood decking, but some are rated as high as Class A, equivalent to concrete products.

Does Trex burn easily?

Is Trex fire resistant? Nothing is more important than your safety outdoors. At Trex, we do everything we can to ensure it. Our Transcend and Select decking lines retain a Class B fire rating, while our Enhance decking lines retain a Class C fire rating; however, they are not fireproof.

What can I do with scrap Trex decking?

DIY Projects for Your Leftover Composite Decking MaterialsBuild a Storage Chest. Now that you have a new deck, you'll be spending a lot more time outdoors in the warmer months. ... Build a Planter Box. Planter boxes are an easy DIY project. ... Build a Dog House. ... Build a Birdhouse. ... Build a Bench.

How do I get rid of Trex decking?

0:271:52How to remove a trex deck board from the middle of a deck without cutting it.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSlide all these fasteners out turn my board around slide all the fasteners back in passing it downMoreSlide all these fasteners out turn my board around slide all the fasteners back in passing it down and we're good to go we didn't have to ruin that board we didn't have to take the whole deck apart.

Will a fire pit melt composite decking?

The heat from a fire pit can cause damage to the composite decking and make it warp. This occurs because of the use of certain plastics like polypropylene and PVC and in extreme cases, the composite deck can even begin to melt.

How do I make my deck fireproof?

To make an existing deck more fireproof, use a flame retardant spray. You might also add metal sheathing around the base timbers to create more fire-resistant decks. Ask your local home improvement professional for the best recommendation.

Is Trex Class A fire rated?

Trex Product Ratings Trex is listed as having Class A and Class B ratings for flame spread; Class A is the highest flame-spread rating in ASTM E84.

Is Trex considered combustible?

It is non-combustible, termite-proof and rust-resistant. To protect your investment Trex Elevation is backed by a 25 year limited residential warranty. Trex Elevations is also environmentally friendly. It is chemical-free and contains a minimum of 20% recycled steel.

What can you make out of old decking boards?

So if you're looking for ways to make the most of your leftover wood, see how we've utilised leftover decking this summer.Window planter box. Actually, planter boxes in general, but we just so happen to have built one under our kitchen window. ... Soil Sieve. ... Traditional flower bed. ... Decking steps. ... Ferret ramps. ... Cover ups.

Can you build a shed with composite decking?

Whether you're looking to create a focal seating area, build a shed or garden house or a brand new fence, composite wood lumber is the most versatile option for your garden!

Can you build a bench with Trex?

0:049:01Making Outdoor bench with spare TREX - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo i have a couple of trex planks lying around from a deck project and i'll try to make a benchMoreSo i have a couple of trex planks lying around from a deck project and i'll try to make a bench using three of these planks and a couple of two by fours. So let's see how the project goes.

Can you put solo stove on composite deck?

A solo stove can be used on a composite deck as long as there is a stand for it to sit on creating an air space between the decking and fire. Including a fireproof mat will increase the protection of the composite decking from any heat radiating from the bottom of the stove.

Does composite decking get hot?

But how hot can composite decking get in the sun? One study found that in direct sunlight, composite decks can reach temperatures from 34° to 76° F hotter than the surrounding air. On an 80° day, that could mean a deck surface temperature of more than 150°.

Can I use solo stove on screened in porch?

Solo Stoves are safe to use on both wood or Trex decking, provided you also use the Solo Stove stand or a heat-resistant fire pit barrier underneath. Although Solo Stoves emit less heat than other types of fire pits, they could still damage your deck over prolonged periods of use.

What is Deck protect?

Allendale Fibertech's DeckProtect (click to see it on Amazon) is a portable heat and fire-resistant barrier designed to protect wood and composite decks from damage during wood-burning fire pit use.

First Things First, Explaining the Fuss Behind Trex Decking

If you are considering getting a new deck, Trex deck, in particular, will do you good first to understand what it is. Trex composite decks are mostly plastic and wood combined to create an entirely new product.

7 Exclusive Pros of Trex Decking

You can relay the pros and cons of Trex decking to guide you towards making a decision. Among all the types of composite decks, Trex decks seem to be winning in terms of preference. Here is a list and closer look at the pros of Trex decking;

Cons of Trex Decking that are worth considering

Just as there are good things about composite decks, you have to brace yourself for some Trex decking problems. Knowing what to expect regarding the issues ensures you are better prepared to handle them adequately. Below is a list of some issues that you can expect.

Getting Ready To Accommodate Trex Decks

You have something to gain or lose from Trex decks. You will have to ask yourself if you are willing to make the compromises and get it or not. The benefits of a completed outdoor living space can also support your lifestyle and be a great financial investment. One thing that you can’t deny is that there is legitimacy in Trex decking popularity.

What is the best decking alternative?

A great alternative to wood decking is composite. It looks great, comes in a wide variety of styles and colors, and some systems come with hidden fasteners, giving it a clean, smooth appearance. Many people choose composite over wood, even though it is substantially more expensive, and, has a lower return-on-investment (about 68 percent, ...

Why won't the trash pick up composite decking?

If you find yourself in the unenviable position of having to tear up your composite deck due to damage, whether from natural causes or because of poor installation, you’ll find that the local trash collection won’t pick it up and haul it away because it presents an environmental safety hazard.

When was composite decking invented?

Composite decking was first introduced in the 90s by Trex who developed the initial idea of a composite made from 95% recycled sawdust waste and used plastic bottles (HDPE) where the wood fibers act as reinforcement for the recycled plastic. They initially offered a very basic product in a few colors that were easily achieved.

Why is composite wood so bad?

This happens to composite if it isn't gapped properly because water can't run off and like wood, it absorbs moisture, but unlike wood, is more susceptible to damage.

How long does Trex decking last?

With Trex Decking there are a few do’s that you want to follow to make sure installation goes well and that the product lasts for years. Of course, just like everything, there are the don’ts that you want to avoid so your Trex Decking stays looking superior. Renovating your home is always a good idea.

What is Trex decking made of?

What Trex decking is, though, is a composite material that is made from recycled materials such as wood fibers, plastic, and a bonding agent designed to hold it all together. What you are left with is something that looks a whole lot like wood, but which is a good deal stronger and sturdier.

What does Trex look like?

Trex Decking Looks Like Plastic. Today this is a myth, but was not back in the day. When Trex decking first made its appearance, it did not resemble real wood and did have a plastic look. After decades, production has been fine-tuned and Trex decking now looks like real wood.

What is Trex lattice?

The Trex decking lattice is made from the same material as the decking so it has the same characteristics give it lifelong longevity.

Can you sand a Trex deck?

There are many companies that offer products that can be effectively used on your Trex deck in order to get rid of termites and other insects. Don't Perform Sanding. Sanding is considered important or even necessary for traditional wood decks, however extensive sanding of composite decking should always be avoided.

Is Trex termite free?

Things NOT to Do With Trex. Don't Use Dangerous Insecticides. Even though Trex is relatively termite free as compared to wood decks, there are always chances for it to be infected by insects. Look for small holes on the surface and if you find a few, then it’s time to call a professional to get rid of the insects.

Is Trex a good material for a deck?

Choose Good Quality Material. When it comes to investing in building a composite deck at your house, it is always better to build a deck with Trex, as Trex is one of the most durable and efficient composites for decking.

What type of wood is used for decking?

The most common type of decking material is treated lumber, which makes up the vast majority of decks.

What is the best wood for a deck?

This type of wood is treated with chemicals that make it resistant to rot and insect damage. Cedar and redwood are also popular deck materials due to their natural insect and weather-resistant properties. These natural materials tend to be significantly more expensive than pressure treated lumber.

What is composite decking made of?

PVC decking is made from a synthetic resin called polyvinyl chloride. Composite decking is made from recycled plastic and wood fibers , which is fused together using an adhesive.

How long do old wood boards last?

Considering some of these materials are rated to last 40 years and beyond, your old boards may still have some life left in them. Consider using this waste to build something new: a workbench, flower boxes (non-edible if using treated wood) for your wife, benches, picture frames, or any other number of projects.

Is treated lumber hazardous?

Because of these hazards, you’ll have a difficult time finding a recycling company that will take treated lumber that was manufactured before 2004. Planing treated lumber as one might do to reclaim old lumber would be extremely hazardous as it would release its harmful chemicals into the air.

Can cedar decking be disposed of?

For example, natural decking like cedar can be more easily disposed of than say treated wood, which needs to be disposed of because of the dangerous chemicals used to treat the wood.

Is decking material expensive?

With that in mind, chances are at least some of the material you’re getting rid of still has some life in it. The decking material is also expensive, meaning someone might be willing to pay a fraction of the cost of new boards to get your old deck boards.

When to throw away Trex pieces?

Throw your Trex pieces away when it is trash night.

How to repair scratches on wood?

Sand the scratch with a scratch repair pad or applicator tool. Apply light pressure to either the scratch pad or the applicator that came with the wax, and move the tool over the scratched spot very quickly. Use a back and forth motion for best results. Continue sanding until the scratch is the same level as the rest of the board.

How to get tabs out of a board?

Hit the tabs with moderate force about 3-5 times until they are flush with the board next to it. This gets the tabs out of the way, so you can easily fit the new board in place. If you are having trouble, use more force as you hit the tabs. ...

How to get wax off of a sandpaper?

Rub the applicator over the wax to remove any excess. Hold the applicator in between your index finger and thumb, and lightly move it back and forth across the wax. This scrapes off any extra wax.

How to secure a board in place?

Use a pry bar to put the new board into place. To secure the board into its spot, put the tip if the pry bar in between the new board and the board next to it, and pull back on the pry bar with light pressure. Do this for both sides to wedge the board into place. ...

How to remove a board from a board?

Remove the center piece of wood from the rest of the board. Using your hands, lift up on the board from 1 side, and take it out of its spot. Place the board down on the neck next to you.

How to separate a board?

Use a pencil to mark the board in 3 equal intervals. Look at your board, and divide it vertically into approximately 3 equal parts. Draw a vertical line running the length of the board so it's divided in thirds. This way, you can easily separate your board.