MyTrexStory: "She’s the Carpenter" Chooses Trex for Her New Fence

Ashley Quintero of @ShestheCarpenter is no stranger to Trex products. After working alongside fellow DIY influencer Charlee of Build & Create Home to build a freestanding Trex deck in her backyard, Ashley has since added Trex® Solar Cap Lighting to her Trex railing and, most recently, she completed her outdoor transformation with Trex® Fencing.

The rotting, old fence in her outdoor space had been a project that Ashley was eager to take on since moving into her home. With the gleam of her new decking and railing highlighting the need for a refresh, she decided it was time to upgrade her fencing to a more durable, low-maintenance material, prompting her to consider the advantages of composite fencing over wood.

Farewell to the Frankenstein Fence

Ashley’s fence, which was originally made of wood, had been patched up many times over the years with bricks, creating not just an eyesore, but a fence that was on the verge of crumbling. As Ashley put more work into beautifying her outdoor space, the mismatched boards, uneven repairs and visible signs of wear and tear were starting to detract from the overall aesthetic of her outdoor space.

After seeing how her Trex deck totally transformed her backyard, Ashley was ready to have a fence that would complement her deck’s aesthetic to create a cohesive and inviting space for entertaining friends and family. However, it was important that she upgraded to a fence that would not require the constant and exhaustive maintenance that her current fence demanded.

Why Ashley Chose Trex Composite Fencing

Because of her prior experience with Trex decking and railing through her DIY deck collaboration with Charlee of Build & Create Home (check out their deck photos for inspiration!), in addition to Trex Solar Cap Lighting, Ashley knew she could rely on Trex Composite Fencing to be a permanent solution for her outdoor space. When comparing composite fencing vs. wood, she found that building a fence with a composite material like Trex would provide her with durability, carefree upkeep and peace of mind.

To complement the natural surroundings of her yard and her Trex Enhance® deck in Toasted Sand, Ashley chose to install Trex Seclusions Fencing in Woodland Brown. The consistency of the materials and colors blend seamlessly with her outdoor space, allowing her to create a cohesive look across her entire yard.

Just like her high-performance Trex decking, her Trex Fencing won’t rot, warp or splinter and doesn’t require any seasonal painting, sealing or staining, which is one of Ashley’s favorite benefits of the product, along with its aesthetic appeal and minimal maintenance.

Low-Maintenance Composite Fencing

Choosing between composite fencing vs. wood was a no brainer for Ashley after experiencing firsthand the amount of upkeep her wood fence required. Opting for composite fencing eliminated the need for ongoing treatments and repairs. Just an occasional cleaning with soap and water is all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris.

Durability

Made from a blend of 95% recycled wood and plastic, Trex Fencing is engineered to resist the common issues that plague wood fences, such as warping, cracking and rotting. It can even withstand harsh weather conditions, including the hot Texas sun and heavy rain that Ashley’s fence will experience. When comparing composite fencing vs. wood, composite fencing even resists insect damage including termites, offering long-term savings on maintenance and replacement.

Longevity

If you’re on the fence between choosing composite fencing vs. wood, longevity must be kept in mind. Trex Fencing is engineered to last. It’s resistant to fading, even when exposed to direct sunlight and will maintain its rich color and natural wood-like appearance for years to come. Because it does not splinter, crack or peel, it remains safe and smooth, ensuring that it will continue to look great and function well for decades to come.

Serving as a testament to its superior quality is the life expectancy of Trex Fencing. On average, Trex Fencing can last 25-30 years, far surpassing the lifespan of a wooden fence which is 10-15 years with regular maintenance. This extended lifespan not only provides peace of mind for homeowners but also represents cost savings over time as there’s little need for repairs, replacements or ongoing treatment.

The DIY Installation Process for Composite Fencing 

When it came time to research the difference between installing composite fencing vs. wood, Ashley found the composite installation process to be relatively straightforward. She used the detailed instructions available on Trex.com to guide her through each step. Even though her project required her to use three different mounting methods for the posts, the process still wasn’t particularly challenging. For DIYers looking to challenge themselves to build their own Trex Fence, Ashley shared some advice…

Can You Screw Into Composite Fencing?

DIYers who are considering building a composite fence vs. wood may be wondering, can you screw into composite fencing? The answer is yes, however, it’s important to use the correct type of screws that are designed specifically for the material. Composite screws are typically made from stainless steel or other corrosion-resistant materials and are recommended because they are engineered to penetrate the dense composite material without causing splintering or cracking.

Do You Need Gravel Boards For Composite Fencing?

Another common question is whether you need gravel boards when installing composite fencing. While gravel boards are not essential for the proper installation of composite fencing, they can be a valuable addition depending on the characteristics of your installation site. If the ground is uneven or prone to accumulating moisture and debris, installing gravel boards can offer practical benefits such as acting as a barrier to keep the lower edge of the fence clean and free from damage.

Gravel boards can slightly elevate fence panels above the ground, providing a cleaner more consistent appearance while preventing dirt and moisture from coming into direct contact with the fence. This reduces the chances of straining and wear over time and helps to retain a like-new aesthetic for years to come.

Ashley’s Transformed Outdoor Space

Now that Ashley’s Trex Fencing project is complete, her outdoor space has a finished look and feel that is the envy of the neighborhood. She has been pleasantly surprised by how much privacy this simple addition has created, making their deck even more of a favorite spot for spending time outside with family and friends.

Explore Trex Fencing for Your DIY Project

If you’re looking to enhance your outdoor space with a fencing solution that offers beauty, durability and low maintenance, Trex Fencing is the ideal choice. Combining the natural look of wood with the long-lasting benefits of composite materials, Trex Fencing provides a stylish and sturdy barrier that can withstand the elements without constant upkeep. Explore Trex Fencing today and invest in fencing that not only complements your landscape but stands the test of time.