If you're planning to build a new deck in Montgomery County, Howard County, or Prince George’s County, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing the right decking material.

Composite decking has taken over the market—and for good reason. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and beautiful. But not all composite products are the same. Two names rise to the top: AZEK® and Trex®.

So which one is right for your Maryland home? Here’s a side-by-side comparison, based on what we’ve seen at Design Builders after building hundreds of decks across the region.

1. Material Composition: Capped Polymer vs. Wood-Composite Blend

AZEK® (TimberTech Advanced PVC)

• Made from 100% capped polymer (PVC)

• Contains no wood fibers

• More resistant to moisture, mold, and warping

Trex® (Transcend & Enhance Lines)

• Made from recycled wood and plastic composite

• Core contains wood fibers

• Capped with a protective shell to prevent fading and stains

✅ Maryland homeowners in humid or shaded areas (especially in PG or MoCo) tend to prefer AZEK for its superior moisture resistance.

2. Durability and Weather Resistance

Both brands are designed to handle Maryland’s four seasons, but they perform slightly differently:

• AZEK holds up better in extreme heat and moisture, making it great for south-facing decks or low-ventilation areas.

• Trex is durable, but its wood content means it may expand or contract slightly more with temperature swings.

If you’re building a deck in an area like Clarksville or Potomac, where summer heat can be intense, AZEK might have a slight edge.

3. Aesthetics and Color Options

Both brands offer stunning color selections, but the texture and finish vary:

• AZEK mimics the look of premium hardwoods like ipe, mahogany, and walnut with subtle graining and matte finishes.

• Trex has a slightly more textured finish and rich color options, especially in the Transcend Line.

✅ If you're going for a high-end, luxury aesthetic (think: custom porches in Bethesda or multi-level decks in Ellicott City), AZEK may offer the sleeker finish you want.

4. Heat Retention Underfoot

Maryland summers can be brutal—especially on bare feet.

• AZEK typically stays cooler underfoot thanks to its lighter core material.

• Trex, while improved in recent years, can retain more heat—especially darker colors.

For poolside decks in Bowie or Silver Spring, AZEK is often the more barefoot-friendly option.

5. Price and Value

Here’s the tradeoff:

• AZEK is generally more expensive upfront—about 30–40% more than Trex, depending on the line.

• Trex offers great performance for the price, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious homeowners who still want long-term value.

✅ In neighborhoods like Laurel or Gaithersburg, where homeowners are often weighing ROI carefully, Trex is an attractive option.

6. Warranty and Longevity

• AZEK offers a lifetime limited warranty and 50-year fade/stain coverage

• Trex offers a 25-year limited warranty for fade/stain and structural integrity

Both brands are solid, but AZEK backs its premium pricing with a longer performance promise.

7. Environmental Impact

• Trex is one of the most eco-friendly decking brands—made from 95% recycled materials

• AZEK is also sustainable and now offers recycled PVC lines, but with a heavier manufacturing process

For Maryland homeowners focused on green building practices, Trex has a slight lead.

Final Verdict: AZEK or Trex?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but here’s how we break it down for our clients:

Need Help Choosing the Right Decking for Your Home?

At Design Builders, we’ve installed both AZEK and Trex on decks throughout Montgomery, Howard, and Prince George’s Counties. We know the nuances, and we can help you make the best choice for your home, your lot, and your lifestyle.

📞 Call us today at (301) 875-2781
📅 Schedule your consultation now
Let’s build something that fits your vision—and your budget.