The cost per linear foot of Trex decking is driven by material quality, board width, and installation factors. Buyers should expect a range that covers materials, labor, and possible add ons. This guide uses cost ranges in dollars and offers practical estimates to help plan budgets.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials per linear ft | $4 | $6 | $8 | Trex boards plus fasteners |
| Labor per linear ft | $6 | $10 | $15 | Installation time varies by pattern |
| Total installed per linear ft | $12 | $18 | $25 | Includes basic substructure and waste |
| Railing per linear ft | $20 | $35 | $60 | Optional add on |
| Pattern effects | Minimal | Moderate | Substantial | Complex patterns raise cost |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges include both materials and installation and assume standard 5 1 2 inch Trex decking with a basic substructure. The total price per linear foot typically spans from a low of around 12 to a high of about 25 when railing and extras are included. For materials alone a typical range is 4 to 8 per linear foot.
Assumptions include a moderate climate, standard joist spacing, and typical waste factors. Price variations are driven by board width, color and texture, and the complexity of the railing system.
Cost Breakdown
The following table shows how costs accumulate across key categories. The figures are per linear foot when projects are measured by total length rather than by area.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $4 | $6 | $8 | Trex boards and fasteners |
| Labor | $6 | $10 | $15 | Preparation, cutting, and fastening |
| Substructure & Hardware | $2 | $3 | $5 | Joists, screws, brackets |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0.50 | $1 | $2 | On site delivery and old deck disposal |
| Railing (optional) | $20 | $35 | $60 | Per linear ft if chosen |
| Warranty & Misc | $0.50 | $1 | $2 | Manufacturer warranty and incidents |
Pricing Variables
Key drivers include board style and climate with two niche thresholds: board width and texture level. Wider boards typically cost more per linear foot, and textured finishes add to both material and installation time. Selections that require hidden fasteners or advanced trimming can push the per foot price higher.
Also note that labor rates vary by region and crew availability. A busy season may lift installation costs, while off season work can yield savings.
Ways To Save
Shop price ranges for materials by comparing multiple Trex product lines and opting for standard colors over premium textures. Bundling railing and decking purchases with one contractor can reduce per foot costs.
Plan for size and timing by batching a full deck project to reduce mobilization fees and waste. Accurate measurements and a clear scope prevent added charges later.
Regional Price Differences
Prices can differ by region due to material transport and local labor markets. In urban areas expect higher installation costs, while rural markets may offer lower labor rates but higher delivery charges.
Example delta across three regions shows typical ranges: Northeast 8 12 higher on average than the national baseline, Midwest near median, and South typically lower due to labor competition.
Labor & Installation Time
Installation time depends on deck size, layout complexity, and railing choices. A simple square deck runs faster while curved or multi level designs require more hours.
Estimate concept uses hours multiplied by regional hourly rates plus material costs. This helps translate per foot figures into total project budgets.
Real World Pricing Examples
Below are three scenario cards to illustrate typical outcomes. Each includes specs, hours, per unit prices, and totals without hidden assumptions.
Deck length 12 ft, width 6 ft, straight run, standard Trex board, no railing. Hours 8, materials 72, labor 96, railing 0. Total about 168.00 to 240.00 per linear ft equivalent when prorated across length.
Deck length 20 ft, width 8 ft, straight run, Trex standard color with basic hidden fasteners, optional railing. Hours 16, materials 160, labor 320, railing 400. Total roughly 320 to 520 per linear ft given pattern and extras.
Deck length 25 ft, width 10 ft, complex layout, elevated framing, Trex exotic color, premium texture, full railing. Hours 28, materials 250, labor 560, railing 900. Total around 520 to 900 per linear ft depending on options.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Trex decks commonly carry long life spans with low maintenance compared with wood. Typical maintenance involves cleaning and occasional resealing only if color fading or staining occurs.
5 year outlook anticipates minimal replacement needs with routine cleaning and board inspection.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours
