Considering composite decking for your next outdoor project? If you've been weighing your options between TruNorth and Trex, you're not alone. Homeowners often ask us which brand is better, especially when investing in a long-lasting deck.
At Custom Built, we’ve designed and installed hundreds of composite decks for families across Michigan. As a TrexPro Platinum Builder, we know what performs best for Midwest homes and where certain products fall short. We’re here to give you the honest comparison you won’t find in marketing brochures.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of TruNorth and Trex composite decking, side by side:
- What is TruNorth Composite Decking?
- TruNorth Composite Decking: Pros
- TruNorth Composite Decking: Cons
- What is Trex Composite Decking?
- Trex Composite Decking: Pros
- Trex Composite Decking: Cons
- Which Decking Brand Is Right for You?
- Why We Recommend Trex Composite Decking
Header PC: TruNorth Decking; Trex
What is TruNorth Composite Decking?
PC: TruNorth Decking; Composite Deck Direct
TruNorth is a composite decking brand based in Canada, developing its unique rice hull formula in the 1990s and scaling production in 2015.
TruNorth offers a streamlined selection of decking products with an emphasis on environmental responsibility. They focus on creating durable, low-maintenance decking materials designed to perform well in various climates.
Their main composite decking lines are:
PC: TruNorth Decking
- TruNorth Composite Decking Gen II
- Dual-sided boards with a brushed finish and wood grain pattern. Updated groove design for broad fastener compatibility.
PC: TruNorth Decking
- TruNorth Accuspan
- Versatile boards with dual-embossed grain. Grooved for hidden fasteners or square-edged for trim, stairs, and framing.
- TruNorth Enviroboard
- Hollow-core, budget-friendly boards with the same durable formula and finish as Accuspan. Lightweight and easy to install.
TruNorth Composite Decking: Pros
PC: TruNorth Decking
- Eco-Friendly: Made using rice hulls and recycled plastic, TruNorth’s composition is sustainable and free of wood fillers.
- Low Maintenance: No sanding, staining, or sealing required. Occasional cleaning with approved cleaners keeps it looking fresh.
- Durable in All Seasons: TruNorth boards are designed to resist cracking, warping, or swelling in extreme temperatures.
- Fade & Stain Resistant: Comes with a 25-year fade and stain warranty (which stands with homeowner or professional installation).
- Slip Resistant: The textured finish provides a strong grip underfoot.
- Hidden Fastener System: Slide & Go hidden fastening creates a clean, fastener-free surface.
- TruNorth Decking Loyalty Program: The TruNorth Builder Loyalty Program helps homeowners by creating a preferred builders list: A network of professionals who consistently work with TruNorth products and have demonstrated familiarity with their installation standards. While it’s not a formal certification program like TrexPro, this list gives homeowners a starting point to find experienced installers who are more likely to deliver a quality build using TruNorth decking materials. (Disclaimer: At the time when we wrote this article [July 2025], there were only three TruNorth-certified deck builders in Michigan.)
TruNorth Composite Decking: Cons
PC: DeckMart Building Supplies
- Fewer Color Options: Only 12 colors are available, compared to Trex’s 30+ across five different product lines.
- Lower Scratch-Resistance: In a recent experiment by Custom Deck Creations, Trex outperformed other brands in durability, while TruNorth ranked last. In a test where a stainless steel screw was dragged across composite boards, TruNorth showed significant surface damage, whereas Trex maintained its integrity and resisted deep scratches. If you expect heavy foot traffic, pets, or frequent furniture movement, this difference in scratch performance could impact your deck’s long-term appearance.
- Less Brand Recognition: Trex is a household name with decades of U.S. market experience. TruNorth, made in Canada, has a smaller presence.
- Premium Cost: Despite fewer options, TruNorth can still come at a premium due to material quality and limited distribution.
- Regional Availability: Because it's produced in Canada, shipping times and availability may vary, especially during peak seasons. This can mean:
- Longer Lead Times
- Higher Shipping Costs
- Currency Exchange and Tariff Risks
- Limited Product Variety: Only offers decking, fascia boards, fasteners, and a drainage system. No railing systems or extensive accessories.
- Limited Retail and Installer Support: If your local installer is unfamiliar or has trouble with the product, warranty or material support could be harder to access.
What is Trex Composite Decking?
PC: Trex
Trex is a well-established, American-made composite decking brand that has led the industry since 1996. Known for its durability, eco-conscious manufacturing, and broad range of product lines, Trex offers decking options that fit a variety of styles and budgets.
With nationwide availability and a reputation for quality, it's no surprise Trex was named America’s Most Trusted® Outdoor Decking brand for the fifth consecutive year by Lifestory Research. Whether you're building a low-maintenance backyard retreat or upgrading your lakefront deck, Trex delivers the performance and aesthetic you're looking for.
Their main composite decking lines are:
PC: Trex
- Trex Signature
- The most premium option with a realistic wood-grain finish and superior durability. Ideal for luxury, high-performance decks.
PC: Trex
- Trex Transcend Lineage
- Modern, heat-mitigating boards with subtle, nature-inspired colors. Designed to stay cooler underfoot in full sun.
PC: Trex
- Trex Transcend
- Rich colors and deep wood grain for a timeless look. High durability and fade resistance with minimal maintenance.
PC: Trex
- Trex Select
- A cost-effective blend of performance and style. Simple color palette with protective shell technology.
PC: Trex
- Trex Enhance
- Lightweight, budget-friendly boards with a scalloped profile. Available in two finishes: Basic and Naturals.
Trex Composite Decking: Pros
PC: Trex
- Made in the U.S.A.: Manufactured and supported across the U.S., which means shorter shipping times and more consistent dealer support.
- Wider Product Variety: Trex offers five composite decking lines, as opposed to TruNorth’s three lines:
- Signature (cooler underfoot, premium finish); 2 colors
- Transcend Lineage (modern aesthetic, heat-mitigating technology); 7 colors
- Transcend (rich colors, wood-like finish); 6 colors
- Select (simplified options with solid durability); 5 colors
- Enhance (entry-level composite at a competitive price); 10 colors
- Matching Railing & Accessories: Trex is not just a deck board manufacturer but a true outdoor living hub. There is no shortage of railing and accessory combinations available to complete the full look. Offerings include:
- Fade & Stain Resistant Warranties: 25-year to 50-year fade and stain warranty across all lines with proper installation (homeowner or TrexPro). Additionally, all of Trex’s accessories are equipped with product warranties.
- TrexPro Program: Trex’s certified TrexPro program connects homeowners with trained installers who meet Trex’s standards for product knowledge and craftsmanship. By hiring a TrexPro installer, such as our team at Custom Built, you may also receive added benefits, including a lifetime labor warranty, which offers extra peace of mind that your deck will stand the test of time. Additionally, with TrexPro Platinum installers, depending on the product lines used, Trex offers extended labor warranties of 5 to 10 years.
- Established Brand with Nationwide Support: Trex has grown to be an expert across the entire US. Their widespread availability and long-standing reputation make it easy to find local experts, dealers, and support.
- Resists Fading, Staining, and Scratching: Trex composite boards are engineered with a durable outer shell that protects against everyday wear, including UV exposure, spills, and foot traffic.
- No Sanding, Staining, or Sealing Required: Unlike wood decks, Trex also doesn't need routine refinishing. An occasional wash with soap and water keeps it looking new.
- Won’t Rot, Warp, or Split: Made from a mix of recycled wood and plastic, Trex is built to withstand Michigan's changing weather without the risk of moisture damage.
- Insect-Resistant: Trex's composite core makes it immune to termites and other wood-destroying insects.
Trex Composite Decking: Cons
PC: The Home Depot
- Higher Price on Premium Lines: Top-tier lines like Signature and Transcend Lineage are more expensive.
- Certain Colors and Lines Can Retain More Heat: Darker Trex colors can get warm in the direct sun. Lighter shades and newer lines are designed to reduce surface heat.
Which Decking Brand Is Right for You?
TruNorth Decking vs. Trex Decking
- Choose TruNorth if you want:
- Slip-resistant materials
- A unique eco-friendly rice hull composite decking board
- And don't mind:
- Limited color selections
- Limited accessory options
- Choose Trex if you want:
- The most design flexibility
- Short shipping times
- Comprehensive accessories
- Reliable U.S.-based support
- Full-service installation from a TrexPro Platinum contractor like Custom Built
- And don't mind:
- Higher prices on premium composite decking lines.
- Varied quality, depending on the line you choose. The difference between enhanced and Trex Signature is drastic in how scratch and heat-resistant the boards are.
Why We Recommend Trex Composite Decking
At Custom Built, we know your deck is more than a home improvement. It’s where your family gathers, your kids grow up, and your summers come to life. That’s why we build with Trex composite decking. It’s a brand we trust because it delivers long-term performance, lasting beauty, and plenty of design options to match your vision and your budget.
Whether you're dreaming of a low-maintenance outdoor space or a high-end deck that feels like an extension of your home, Trex has a product line to fit your style. And because Trex is American-made, widely available, and backed by strong warranties, you won’t be left waiting or wondering about support down the road.
As a TrexPro Platinum Installer, we take it even further. You get professional installation from a team trained in Trex’s best practices, plus stronger warranty backing and insider access to the latest products. That means fewer worries, better results, and a deck that’s built to last so you can spend less time maintaining it and more time enjoying it.
For these reasons, we recommend Trex composite decking as a reliable, high-quality choice that stands up to Michigan’s seasonal challenges while enhancing the value and enjoyment of your home.
Next Steps to Building or Remodeling Your Deck
Choosing between TruNorth and Trex comes down to product variety, warranty support, and long-term value.
You now understand how each brand stacks up, from color options to warranty coverage to overall reliability.
At Custom Built, we’re a TrexPro Platinum Builder trusted by Michigan families to deliver lasting, low-maintenance decks.
Not sure which brand is right for you? Schedule a Discovery Call and get professional advice tailored to your home.
Now that you know more about the differences between TruNorth and Trex composite decking, let’s explore how much composite decks cost, the top differences between Trex and wood decking, and Trex’s high-quality composite lines:
- How Much Do Composite Decks Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - An overview of how much your Lansing composite deck will cost and the factors that will influence your price.
- Top 10 Differences Between Trex Composite and Wood Decking Material - Learn more about the basic yet essential differences between Trex composite and wood decking when choosing your deck’s materials.
- Comparing Trex Lineage, Transcend, Select, and Enhance Composite Decking Lines - Explore our thorough comparison of Trex’s most common composite decking options, including cost, colors, and benefits.
