When it comes to choosing the best decking material, Armadillo and Trex are two popular brands that offer durable and attractive options. Understanding the differences between Armadillo composite decking and Trex composite decking will help you make an informed decision for your outdoor space.
Armadillo decking offers a range of 10 colors, while Trex has a wider selection of 24 colors. Both brands have their merits when it comes to durability, maintenance, and warranty. By comparing factors such as cost, reviews, maintenance, durability, and warranty, you can determine which option is best suited to your needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Armadillo and Trex are popular brands that offer durable and attractive decking options.
- Armadillo decking comes in 10 colors, while Trex has a wider selection of 24 colors.
- Consider factors such as cost, reviews, maintenance, durability, and warranty when choosing between Armadillo and Trex.
- Armadillo decking is known for its affordability and variety of color options.
- Trex decking is highly regarded for its long-lasting durability and low maintenance.
A Brief History of Trex
Trex, a pioneer in the composite decking industry, has a rich history that spans over two decades. In 1996, Trex emerged as one of the first companies to innovate and manufacture composite decking, revolutionizing the outdoor decking industry.
Driven by a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, Trex set out to create decking materials that not only offered superior performance but also made use of recycled materials. Their vision was to give new life to waste materials that would otherwise end up in landfills, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Since its inception, Trex has continuously evolved and expanded its product lines, offering customers a diverse range of options to suit their unique design preferences and outdoor lifestyles. Today, Trex boasts an impressive collection of four distinct decking lines, each with its own set of features and benefits. With a wide selection of 20 colors to choose from, homeowners have ample choices to express their personal style and enhance their outdoor spaces.
Trex’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and recycling remains a core pillar of their business. Their innovative approach has not only transformed the decking industry but has also made them a significant player in the recycling industry. By utilizing a combination of recycled wood fibers and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic, Trex has successfully diverted significant amounts of waste from landfills, contributing to a greener and more sustainable planet.
With a reputation for durability, longevity, and low maintenance, Trex continues to be a leading choice for homeowners seeking a high-quality composite decking solution that combines aesthetics with environmental responsibility.
Key Highlights:
- Trex was one of the first companies to introduce composite decking in 1996.
- Trex offers a wide range of decking lines and color options.
- Their decking materials are made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and HDPE plastic.
- Trex’s commitment to sustainability and recycling sets them apart in the industry.
With a strong foundation built on innovation, sustainability, and a dedication to quality, Trex continues to shape the future of composite decking and set the standard for outdoor living spaces.
A Brief History of Armadillo
Armadillo, a leading provider of composite decking, is a subsidiary of Avon Plastic, a company established in 1966 renowned for manufacturing various plastic products. In 1996, Armadillo revolutionized the decking industry by introducing composite decking, a durable and sustainable alternative to traditional wood decking.
Continuing their commitment to innovation, Armadillo unveiled their acclaimed capped composite decking under the Armadillo brand in 2010. The incorporation of a polymer cap significantly enhanced the appearance and durability of their decking, making it resistant to stain, fade, and damage from everyday wear and tear. Armadillo’s commitment to high-quality materials and craftsmanship has made them a trusted name in the industry.
In 2017, Armadillo launched TurboClip Universal Fasteners, a groundbreaking product devised to simplify the installation process. With TurboClip, DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike can effortlessly install Armadillo decking with utmost confidence and efficiency.
Armadillo – Quality and Innovation in Construction
“At Armadillo, we strive to provide superior decking solutions that combine aesthetics, durability, and ease of installation. Our commitment to quality and innovation has made us a trusted choice for both residential and commercial projects.”
Armadillo – Committed to Sustainability
Armadillo is fully committed to sustainable practices, minimizing their impact on the environment. By utilizing recycled materials in their composite decking, Armadillo contributes to a circular economy and reduces the demand for virgin resources, making them an environmentally responsible choice for decking solutions.
| Product Line | Features |
|---|---|
| Lifestyle | Fully capped on all four sides for enhanced protection against the elements |
| Essentials | Capped on three sides, providing a budget-friendly option without compromising quality |
Trex vs Armadillo – Materials and Capping
When comparing Trex and Armadillo composite decking, it’s essential to understand the materials used and the capping techniques employed by each brand. Both Trex and Armadillo decking are crafted from a blend of recycled wood and HDPE plastic, making them environmentally friendly choices. This combination offers the attractive aesthetic of wood with the durability and longevity of plastic.
Both Trex and Armadillo decking also feature a polymer cap, which plays a crucial role in enhancing the appearance and durability of the boards. The cap provides an extra layer of protection against stains, fading, and general wear and tear, ensuring that your deck stays looking beautiful for years to come.
Trex adopts a three-sided capping approach for its decking, which means that the top and two sides of the boards are capped. This design helps to shield the decking from moisture, insect damage, and other elements that can lead to deterioration.
On the other hand, Armadillo takes things a step further by fully capping its Lifestyle decking on all four sides. This complete capping ensures maximum protection against moisture and potential damage, giving your deck enhanced durability.
In addition to their Lifestyle decking, Armadillo offers the Essentials line, which is a budget-conscious option. While Essentials maintains the blend of recycled wood and HDPE plastic, it is only capped on three sides. This design still provides adequate protection to the majority of the boards, keeping them resistant to moisture and fading.
Comparing Materials and Capping
| Feature | Trex | Armadillo |
|---|---|---|
| Decking Material | Composite of recycled wood and HDPE plastic | Composite of recycled wood and HDPE plastic |
| Capping | Three-sided capping for most decking lines | Four-sided capping for Lifestyle decking, three-sided for Essentials decking |
| Benefits | – Protects against moisture, fading, and wear | – Maximum defense against moisture and damage for Lifestyle decking – Adequate protection for Essentials decking |
Overall, both Trex and Armadillo offer reliable options when it comes to materials and capping for composite decking. Trex’s three-sided capping approach ensures excellent protection for most of its decking lines, while Armadillo takes it a step further with full capping for its Lifestyle decking. If budget constraints are a concern, Armadillo’s Essentials decking still provides satisfactory protection for most of the boards.
In the next section, we will explore the durability of Trex and Armadillo decking, helping you make an informed decision for your outdoor space.
Trex vs Armadillo – Durability
When comparing Trex and Armadillo decking, one important factor to consider is durability. Both brands offer durable options, but they have different characteristics that set them apart.
Armadillo Decking: Armadillo decking is known for its outstanding hardness, making it less likely to get indented by rocks or heavy furniture. This durability ensures that your deck will maintain its pristine appearance for a longer period of time, even with heavy use.
Trex Decking: On the other hand, Trex decking excels in resistance to concentrated load failure and weight-bearing capabilities. It has the advantage of being less likely to break under heavy weight, making it a reliable choice for decks that will experience frequent use or support heavy furniture.
Both Trex and Armadillo offer durable decking options, but the specific needs of your deck should guide your decision-making process. If you prioritize hardness and resistance to indentation, Armadillo decking may be the better choice for you. However, if you require a deck that can handle heavy loads without breaking, Trex decking is the way to go.
Take into account the intended usage and demands of your deck when considering durability, and choose the decking material that aligns best with your requirements.
Durable Decking Comparison
| Brand | Durability | Hardness | Breakability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trex | High | Moderate | Low |
| Armadillo | High | High | Moderate |
Trex vs Armadillo – Traction
When it comes to choosing decking materials, traction is an important consideration to ensure the safety of your outdoor space. Both Trex and Armadillo decking offer various levels of traction, although neither brand provides optimal slip resistance.
Trex, known for its durability, outperforms Armadillo in terms of slip resistance. Trex decking has slightly better traction, especially when walking against the grain of the decking. This feature can be particularly beneficial in areas prone to wet conditions or where slip accidents are a concern.
Armadillo decking, on the other hand, surprisingly exhibits increased traction when wet, making it a suitable choice for decks that are frequently exposed to moisture or rain. This unexpected benefit can enhance the safety and comfort of your outdoor space.
Ultimately, the choice between Trex and Armadillo decking in terms of traction depends on your specific requirements and preferences. It is crucial to carefully assess the potential slipperiness of both brands before making a decision.
Below is a detailed comparison of the traction and slip resistance offered by Trex and Armadillo decking:
| Brand | Traction | Slip Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| Trex | Slightly better, especially when walking against the grain of the decking | Good |
| Armadillo | Increased traction when wet | Good |
Benefits of Trex Traction
- Slightly better slip resistance
- Enhanced safety, especially when walking against the grain of the decking
- Ideal for areas prone to wet conditions
Benefits of Armadillo Traction
- Increased traction when wet
- Great for decks exposed to moisture or rain
- Provides added safety and comfort
Both Trex and Armadillo decking offer reliable options for traction and slip resistance. Evaluate your specific requirements and the environmental conditions your deck will be exposed to, ensuring you make an informed decision based on safety and functionality.
Trex vs Armadillo – Pricing
When considering Trex and Armadillo decking, pricing is an important factor to take into account. Keep in mind that the cost of both brands can vary depending on the region and availability.
Trex decking is generally more widely accessible and can be purchased from various stores, including Lowes and Home Depot. This widespread availability makes it easier to find and compare prices, giving you the opportunity to choose the best deal for your budget.
On the other hand, Armadillo decking may have limited availability, which means it could be more challenging to find in certain areas. However, if you are able to find it, Armadillo decking can offer a unique and cost-effective option for your outdoor space.
Considering the pricing and availability of both Trex and Armadillo, it’s essential to weigh these factors against your budget when determining the best decking option for you. Take the time to research prices in your area and compare them to ensure you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
After comparing Armadillo decking vs Trex, it is clear that both brands offer durable and attractive decking options. The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Armadillo decking stands out for its affordability and wide variety of color options, allowing you to find the perfect match for your outdoor space. With Armadillo, you can enjoy a beautiful deck without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, Trex decking is highly regarded for its exceptional durability and low maintenance. Trex’s long-lasting materials ensure that your deck will withstand the test of time with minimal upkeep required.
When making your decision, take into consideration factors such as cost, availability, traction, and durability. By carefully considering these aspects, you’ll be able to select the best decking material that meets your needs and provides a stunning outdoor space for years to come.
FAQ
How many color options does Armadillo decking offer compared to Trex?
Armadillo offers 10 colors, while Trex offers 24.
Which brand is more durable, Armadillo or Trex?
Trex is more durable and has better resistance to concentrated load failure. Armadillo is harder and less likely to be indented, but Trex is less likely to break under weight.
Do Armadillo and Trex offer warranties for their decking?
Yes, both brands offer warranties for their decking options.
What is the difference in capping between Armadillo and Trex decking?
Trex consistently caps its decking on three sides, while Armadillo fully caps its Lifestyle decking on all four sides. Armadillo’s budget-conscious decking, Essentials, is only capped on three sides.
Which brand has better traction, Armadillo or Trex decking?
Neither brand provides optimal traction, but Trex has slightly better slip resistance, especially when walking against the grain of the decking. Surprisingly, Armadillo decking has increased traction when wet.
Where can I purchase Trex and Armadillo decking?
Trex decking is widely available and can be purchased from various stores, including Lowes and Home Depot. Armadillo decking has limited availability and may be harder to find.
What factors should I consider when choosing between Armadillo and Trex decking?
Factors to consider include cost, availability, color options, durability, traction, and specific needs for your outdoor space.
