The Genesis of an Idea

In the late 1980s, when composite decking was nothing more than a distant dream, it was a man named Harvey L. Kennedy who envisioned a product that would revolutionize the way we build outdoor spaces. Harvey, a mechanical engineer with a passion for sustainable solutions, saw the limitations of traditional wooden decks. They were prone to rot, required constant maintenance, and were vulnerable to pests. His vision was to create a material that could withstand the elements while requiring minimal upkeep.

Experimentation and Innovation

Harvey’s journey from concept to reality was filled with experimentation and innovation. He began by researching materials that could mimic the natural beauty of wood while offering enhanced durability. His research led him to explore plastic and wood fiber composites. These materials, when combined, could provide the strength and longevity of plastic with the aesthetic appeal of wood. However, the challenge lay in finding the right blend of materials and the manufacturing process that could make this vision a reality.

For years, Harvey worked tirelessly in his garage-turned-lab, testing different combinations of recycled plastics and wood fibers. Each iteration brought him closer to his goal. He experimented with various additives and binders to ensure the composite material was not only durable but also resistant to moisture, UV rays, and insects. The process was slow and often frustrating, but Harvey’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation kept him moving forward.

Bringing the Vision to Market

After countless trials and errors, Harvey finally achieved the breakthrough he had been seeking. The resulting composite decking material was not only stronger and more durable than its wooden counterparts but also required minimal maintenance. This was a game-changer in the construction industry. With his invention, homeowners could enjoy beautiful outdoor living spaces without the hassle of constant upkeep.

To bring his invention to market, Harvey founded Trex Company, Inc., which quickly became a leader in the composite decking industry. Today, Trex is synonymous with high-quality composite decking, and its products are used in millions of homes across the globe. Harvey’s legacy lives on through the sustainable and innovative products that continue to shape the way we design and build our outdoor spaces.