Put Trex Transcend composite decking on our Mississauga backyard deck in 2023. Three years in, sharing an honest assessment.
Why We Chose Composite
Previous deck was cedar, 14 years old. We were staining it every 2 years and it still always looked rough. With two large dogs and three kids, the splintering was a real issue. Decided the premium for composite was worth it to eliminate maintenance.
What We Installed
Trex Transcend Lineage decking (Biscayne colour, 20-foot boards to minimize butt joints).
New substructure: pressure-treated joists and beams (required regardless of decking choice)
Trex Hideaway hidden fastening system (no visible screws on surface)
Trex Signature cable railing
Cost
Substructure (PT framing, hardware): $4,200
Trex Transcend decking (310 sq ft): $6,800 (materials, Transcend is premium tier)
Labour (installation): $5,500
Railing (cable, Trex Signature, 60 linear ft): $5,100
Permit + inspection: $520
Total: $22,120 = $71.35/sq ft
Was quoted $13,500 with pressure-treated decking on the same frame. Premium was $8,600 for composite vs PT.
3-Year Assessment
Appearance: still looks as installed. No fading, no checking, no splintering. The Biscayne colour has been fade-resistant.
Maintenance: swept and power-washed once a year. That’s it.
Heat: noticeably warm in direct afternoon sun in August. Misted it a few times but not a serious issue.
Kids/dogs: zero splinters. The dogs’ nails have left very minor surface marks barely visible.
Would I Do It Again?
Yes. The annual maintenance elimination alone justifies it for us. Cedar would have needed another staining job by now and one board had already cupped and split on the old deck.
What I’d Change
Would spec a lighter colour. Biscayne is medium tone and gets warm in sun. Their lighter Havana Gold or white might have been better for afternoon sun exposure.