Trex Select Saddle Square Edge Deck Board (16 ft.)

The Trex Select Saddle deck board delivers a traditional 1-inch by 6-inch nominal size with actual dimensions of 0.82 inches by 5.5 inches in a 16-foot length. At 2.62 pounds per linear foot, it’s heavier than treated lumber but lighter than premium composites. The 35-year limited residential warranty protects against material defects, fading, staining, and rot/decay — triple the lifespan you’ll get from pressure-treated decking in Montana’s freeze-thaw cycles.

This square-edge profile works for contractors who prefer face-fastening with screws they can see and service. Made from 95% recycled materials, it hits the sweet spot between Trex’s budget Enhance line and their premium Transcend series. Select offers better performance than Enhance with a thicker profile and more durable shell, while being more affordable than Transcend.

Installation Requirements and Performance

Joist spacing tops out at 16 inches on-center for residential use. That’s standard framing, so no need to beef up your structure. Leave a 1/8-inch gap between boards and 1/4-inch gap at ends for expansion — critical in Montana where summer deck surface temperatures hit 140°F and winter drops to -40°F.

Use 2-1/2 inch composite deck screws, not standard deck screws. The difference matters. Composite-specific screws have reverse threads near the head that prevent mushrooming and a smaller head that sits flush without pre-drilling.

Specification	Value
Nominal Size	1 in. x 6 in.
Actual Dimensions	0.82 in. x 5.5 in.
Length	16 ft.
Weight	2.62 lbs per linear foot
Joist Spacing	16 inches on-center
Board Gap	1/8 in. between boards
End Gap	1/4 in. at ends
Warranty	35-year limited residential

Square-edge boards are used for traditional screw-down installation, whereas grooved-edge boards allow for hidden fasteners. Choose square edge when you need boards for stair treads, picture framing, or anywhere the side profile shows. The visible fasteners also mean easier repairs — you can pull and replace a damaged board without dismantling half the deck.

The Verdict

Worth it for Montana decks that see real weather. The 95% recycled content handles Montana’s temperature swings better than virgin plastic composites that get brittle in extreme cold. Reviews average 4.2 to 4.4 stars across major retailers with positive sentiment highlighting ease of installation, natural appearance, and competitive pricing for the durability offered.

Skip it if you’re chasing the absolute lowest price per square foot. Treated lumber costs half as much upfront. But factor in restaining every two years, replacing rotted boards after a decade, and the splinter complaints at every summer barbecue — Trex Select starts looking like the bargain.

The boards work with standard pressure-treated wood joists and are compatible with most standard composite deck screws and Trex Select railing systems or other Trex railing lines. The product meets ASTM D7032 performance standards for wood-plastic composites, which matters when your local building inspector asks questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the actual board thickness of Trex Select? The actual thickness is 0.82 inches, slightly under the 1-inch nominal size. This matters for transition strips and stair calculations.

Can regular deck screws be used with Trex Select? No — use 2-1/2 inch composite deck screws. Regular screws will mushroom the material and won’t sit flush.

How much does a 16-foot Trex Select board weigh? Each linear foot weighs 2.62 pounds, so a 16-foot board weighs approximately 42 pounds.

What’s covered under the Trex Select warranty? The 35-year limited residential warranty protects against material defects, fading, staining, and rot/decay.

Should square edge or grooved edge be chosen? Square-edge boards are used for traditional screw-down installation, whereas grooved-edge boards allow for hidden fasteners. Pick square edge for stairs, picture frames, and easier future repairs.