TrexPro Platinum builders are the leading experts in Trex products. Because of their ability and expertise to design and build outdoor spaces ranging from simple to complex, they have achieved the highest level of recognition from Trex. Currently, there are 180 TrexPro Platinum builders across the U.S. and Canada. In the coming months, we'll hear from a few of them to find out what's trending in outdoor living in their neck of the woods.

This month, meet Trish Irwin, sales and business manager of TnT Builders of Albany, Oregon.

How many years have you been in the decking business?
22 years

How many years have you been using Trex products?
20 years

Estimate the number of decks you’ve built in your lifetime.
700

Most used/most requested Trex color?
Pebble Grey & Island Mist

Why do your customers choose Trex?
You can live with a Trex deck with little or no effort. It will consistently look good if you just keep it clean.

What do you tell customers who are torn between wood and composite?
We’ve seen the cedar quality go down, price go up and much less availability. It’s been easy to convince people to use Trex.

Most popular deck shape?
Most people go straight to the hardlines – rectangles, squares and octagons.

Generally speaking, what are West Coasters looking for when it comes to an outdoor living area?
Roof structures (over their decks).

Your philosophy: railing or no railing?
50/50 split.

Finish the following: kryptonite is to Superman as Trex is to…
Deck maintenance.

Describe Trex decking in five words or less.
“Gives you back your summer.”

Next time, we’ll hear from an East Coast deck builder who has a different story to tell.