Brand debates miss the point. Reviewers pass assemblies, not swatches. Use these 9 decision factors to compare any label fairly.
Trex vs TimberTech vs CopoSurface (2026): 9 Things That Actually Matter
TL;DR — compare by evidence and assembly
- Slip is a method + texture: name Pendulum/DCOF/DIN 51097 on the exact emboss. Background: HSE slips.
- Assembly support wins jobs: rails/pedestals, drainage/ventilation, edges and wind rows should be documented.
- Lifecycle beats shelf price: matte/open-grain + neutral-pH cleaning reduces callbacks and total cost. See lifecycle cost.
- Citeable CopoSurface data: wet slip AS 4586 P5 / R13; MOR ≈ 44 MPa, MOE ≈ 2600 MPa; absorption <1%, swell <0.1%; freeze–thaw/high–low cycles ~±10%. More at Why CopoSurface.
9 Decision Factors (use as your scoring sheet)
Slip EvidenceFinish & HeatAssembly Support
Edges & TrimsDrainage & VentilationMaintenance
LogisticsBatch ControlLifecycle Cost
Edges & TrimsDrainage & VentilationMaintenance
LogisticsBatch ControlLifecycle Cost
| # | Factor | What to ask from any brand | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Slip method + texture | Named method (Pendulum/DCOF/DIN 51097) on the exact emboss supplied | “Slip resistant” without a method isn’t comparable |
| 2 | Finish (matte/open-grain) | Matte texture options for wet/shaded zones | Films sit on gloss; matte behaves steadier |
| 3 | Heat & color plan | Light/mid tones, shade notes and comfort guidance | Surface temperature & user comfort |
| 4 | Assembly support | Rails/pedestals spans; diagonal centers; rooftop notes | Buildability, speed and review compliance |
| 5 | Edges & trims ecosystem | Picture frame/bullnose/fascia with nosing options | Safe thresholds; durable finishes |
| 6 | Drainage & ventilation | 1–2% falls, outlet access, ≥50 mm airspace | Drying time, algae control, longevity |
| 7 | Maintenance SLA | Neutral-pH cleaning cadence with named products | Retains wet grip & appearance |
| 8 | Logistics & lead time | Rooftop lift plan; packaging sizes; crew notes | Fewer delays, safer handling |
| 9 | Batch control & lifecycle cost | Batch IDs, spares strategy, 5-year cost outlook | Color continuity; realistic budgeting |
Trex vs TimberTech vs CopoSurface: 9 Things That Actually Matter (2026)
Explore finishes: Ecosolid Decking · See installs: Project Gallery · Answers: FAQ · Policy & data: Why CopoSurface.
FAQ — quick, copyable answers
Should I compare price per square foot first?
Normalize assemblies first (subframe, edges, drainage, ventilation). Board-only prices hide the real project costs.
Which brand is “the safest” for slip?
No universal winner. Ask for method-named slip on the exact texture you’ll receive, and set a neutral-pH cleaning SLA.
Can I use glossy finishes by a pool?
Possible but risky. Gloss shows films and feels slick sooner; matte/open-grain is steadier for wet zones.
