Trex Decking and Power Tools

[Dave Crabbs]

Hi All,
I am rebuilding a utility trailer and would like to use 5/4 Trex decking for side boards. I have never used this stuff before and would like to know how hard this stuff is to mill? I need to make some 2x4's posts for the side boards. What I thought to do is rip some decking to 3 5/8" wide by 7/8" Thick then clean up the thickness with my planer. Then glue them together with a poly glue. Then dress the edges to size on my jointer. Or can you buy 2x4 Trex boards?
Thanks
Dave

[Peter Lyon]

Dave,

I've used this stuff a number of times and other then its propensity to get real hot, it works just like wood. I've ripped it, crossed cut it and edge routered with typical woodworking tools. And yes, it does come in 2" by 4" dimensions.

[Jim Becker]

You can cut it easily with your regular tools. But please be aware that it does not have the raw strength of "real wood". You may want to make your posts out of PT or white oak for that reason and use the deck boards for the cross pieces. The sections you make should last longer that way.

[John Weber]

Dave,

I used composite for my trailer eariler this year with oak uprights. The composite is great, but heavy. Mine was solid, although they make a hollow core, this is what I would use next time. Jim is correct it machines great, but I didn't plane or joint anything.

Good Luck - John

<img src=http://www.weberwoodworking.com/pond/trailerside.jpg><p>
<img src=http://www.weberwoodworking.com/pond/trailerrearwithramp.jpg>

[Dave Crabbs]

Thanks for the replies. Now I will know what to expect when I work with stuff. John I like the way your trailer looks. Hope mine turns out half as good looking as yours. Plus you gave me some good ideas from your pictures. Now I need to find a supplier in my area:p .
Thanks again,
Dave

[Joe Tonich]

Dave,

I don't know if your near Sharon Center but theres a place on the circle that sells that. Sorry but I can't remember the name of the place. I think it's right next to the furniture store.

Joe

[Brad Risley]

Question on your trailer. You have the spare tire under the tongue. Any problems getting it out or putting it back? It looks like a great idea if access is not to difficult.

[John Weber]

Brad,

Yes, the trailer builder added a cross member specifically for the spare. It is welded in place and the spare mounts with 2 bolts. I just need to keep the correct sized wrenches in the tool box, along with lug wrench and jack. To mount it I set the tire on a milk crate and lower the trailer over it. When removing the spare you can just let it drop. Since the spare is also an alloy wheel, I use a piece of rubber to keep the cross member from damaging the wheel. More then you ever wanted to know I'm sure.

John

[Kurt Krauter in Indy]

Where's the shelving and bin boxes that go on that trailer???

Hey, though...that is one NICE rig....I don't think I could bring myself to putting anything on it:D :D

Looking good!!

Kurt