Net sales increased 26.0% to $360 million from $285 million, reflecting broad-based volume growth led by the Trex Enhance® product line, supported by strong consumer demand, continued success executing our wood conversion strategy, and ongoing market share gains. We estimate that approximately $30 million in revenue came from initial distribution load-in.
Gross profit was $129 million, with gross margin of 36.0%, compared to gross profit of $115 million and gross margin of 40.5% in the prior-year period. Excluding Arkansas plant startup costs, adjusted gross profit was $133 million, compared to adjusted gross profit of $117 million in the prior-year period.
Gross margin performance reflected higher transportation-related input costs associated with increased diesel prices, as well as higher depreciation resulting from recent capacity investments. Startup costs at the Arkansas facility were higher than anticipated due to a temporary mechanical issue that created operational inefficiencies during the quarter. The issue has been resolved, and the Company expects startup-related costs to moderate as production volumes increase as the facility advances toward full utilization.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses were $56 million, representing 15.7% of net sales, compared to $45 million, or 15.8% of net sales, in the prior-year period. Excluding digital transformation costs, SG&A was $55 million compared to $43 million in the prior year. The increase primarily reflects investments in people, capabilities, and brand-building initiatives designed to accelerate consumer demand and support future growth.
Net income was $52 million, or $0.52 per diluted share, compared to net income of $52 million, or $0.48 per diluted share, in the prior year. Adjusted net income was $56 million, with adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.55, compared to adjusted net income of $55 million, with adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.51.
Adjusted EBITDA increased 10% to $100 million from $90 million in the prior-year period.
Free cash flow for the quarter was $135 million, reflecting strong operating performance, seasonal working capital benefits, and lower capital expenditures as construction of the Arkansas facility approaches completion.
During the quarter, the Company repurchased approximately 1.2 million shares for $55 million and repaid $83 million outstanding under its revolving credit facility. The Company anticipates completing its Board-authorized $150 million share repurchase program by year-end, bringing total share repurchases during 2026 to approximately $300 million.
Other Quarter Highlights
•Celebrated Trex's 30th anniversary and outlined a strategy to double the business over the next four years, expanding beyond category-leading decking to become the defining brand in outdoor living through continued investment in manufacturing capacity, product innovation, strategic partnerships, and digital solutions.