Question about TREX
 

I know TREX makes a good, non-rotting wood substitute, my question is: is it comparable to wood on strength and load carry ability? I have a car trailer and putting TREX on it would be great since it would look good and never rot. I am concerned it does not have the same load bearing strength, does anybody know?

thanks
Fred

No. It is more flexible than wood.

Are any of the other wood substitutes comparable in strength?

thanks
Fred

there is a wood species called 'iron wood' that is strong and resists rot.

Yup, when you build decks and such with it you it must go on min. of 16 inch centers. If not it flex pretty bad when you walk on it.

I think solid wood of whatever species would be preferable for trailer beds.

I thought it was 24 in centers?

Maybe it is for solid 2" lumber. Trex does have a lot of flex in it. It's great if you want to edge a free form deck with it.

Definitely not the same load bearing strength. When you see a stack overhanging the pallet, every portion is drooping towards the ground.

I'm not sure about a non-wood alternative that would hold up to that much weight.

I think Trex is made out of ground up plastic grocery bags and saw dust, if I remember correctly. Like particle board, it's fine as long as you use it for the things it was engineered for.

This is what most truck and trailer beds are made from. Is very durable; but not inexpensive.

My local lumber yard carries a small amount of it.

Synthetic deck material is not designed for that application. I do a fair amount of deck work and usually try for a max of 16" on center or less if the math works out to keep Trex, Azek Deck, etc. from flexing.

Plain old pressure treated SYP 2X is just fine for your trailer deck. Treat it every few years with Sikkens, etc. to preserve it and the lifespan will double.

RT

Rumber
 

I have a flatbed decked with "Rumber" at the ranch. Good stuff.

http://www.rumber.com/

Does the rumber carry the load of whatever you have on the trailer, or does it just sit on top of an existing support, like a mat ?

Fred

No it would be horrible for a trailer, flexable and heavy as hell.

You need oak boards, at least thats what we use on the equipment trailers. They hold up quite well.