Considerations for Screening in Decks & Patios in Maryland & Virginia

When approaching unique outdoor living spaces, there are multiple paths one can take to arrive at a successful design resolution. It's easier when there's not an existing structure like an elevated deck or flagstone patio, but old spaces can be reimagined and rejuvenated with things like new Zuri decking, outdoor kitchen cabinets, and even brand new walls. It doesn't take a teardown to convert a patio in Maryland or deck in Virginia into a screen room without compromising on beauty or structural integrity.

Because Trex is widely known for their decking boards, it stands to reason that the company is best known for their decks. However, Trex decking boards are increasingly being used in a slightly different capacity: docks and marinas. Because Trex offers such a seamless, aesthetically pleasing, and highly functional solution to the problem of dock and marina degradation, these two applications actually represent some of the biggest areas of growth for the brand.

Why Is Trex Ideal for Docks and Marinas?

The environment around docks and marinas is extremely challenging for any decking board material. In the summer, the deck must withstand extreme sun, and year round, docks and marinas alike are constantly exposed to and covered in water.

If you live in the Maryland, Virgina, DC area, and are entertaining the idea of building an outdoor screen room, you want to invest in creating a space that's as functional year-round as possible. This translates to designing a screened porch area that's comfortable and usable for as many months of the year as you can. Luckily, there are many ways to ensure your outdoor living space is fortified against bugs and the elements.

If you’re a builder or contractor, it’s very likely you’re familiar with Trex products. If you consistently install Trex in your residential and commercial projects, you might even have achieved TrexPro, TrexPro Gold, or TrexPro Platinum status. If that’s the case, you will be especially excited to learn all about what’s new for Trex in 2020.

Big Changes for Trex Installers in 2020

The designations of “TrexPro,” “TrexPro Gold,” and “TrexPro Platinum” will still stand. Even after the changes in 2020, Platinum will still be considered the highest level of recognition an independent contractor can achieve, and earning Gold or Platinum status will still be possible by meeting an installation volume threshold.

With high-end decking, it’s very common to also have beautiful, durable, well-crafted railings. As with decking, though, there can be an overwhelming number of options. This applies to both styles and material. If you’re currently weighing your options between composite railing and PVC, consider these pros and cons of the two material types: