TimberTech and AZEK decking

TimberTech Deck Builder in Cincinnati

TimberTech is the other line we install most, and it is worth understanding because it is really two different products under one name. TimberTech composite boards have a wood based core with a polymer cap. AZEK boards, sold under the same brand, have no wood in them at all.

That distinction is the main reason to choose TimberTech, and it matters most on decks that sit low to the ground, near a pool, or anywhere water is going to linger.

Capped composite and capped polymer options
AZEK boards for wet and low clearance decks
Multi width boards for wider layouts
Matching railing, fascia and risers

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Grey composite deck with dark stairs leading down to the yard

Composite or polymer

Capped composite is the conventional choice and performs very well. Capped polymer contains no wood flour, so there is nothing in the board for moisture to act on. It is lighter, it stays noticeably cooler in sun than a comparable dark composite, and it costs more.

For a raised deck in an open yard, composite is usually the sensible spend. For a ground level deck with little airflow underneath, a pool surround, or a shaded area that stays damp, polymer is the one we would point you at.

Board widths and layout

TimberTech offers boards in more than one width across several of its lines. Mixing widths is a way to break up a large deck surface without resorting to inlays, and it reads as deliberate rather than busy when it is planned into the framing from the start.

As with any composite, the frame has to be built for the board. Spacing, blocking under borders and the layout of butt joints are all set before the first board is fastened down.

Railing choices

TimberTech railing systems match the board colours, and there are cable and aluminium options where you want to keep a view. We have built plenty of both. On a deck overlooking anything worth seeing, a horizontal cable or thin aluminium picket does far more for the space than a heavier composite rail.

Work we have finished

Every photograph on this page is a Prime Home Improvements project, taken after the work was done.

Raised composite deck with horizontal cable railing and a staircase at a grey sided home

Overhead view of a grey composite deck with cable railing against a dark sided home

Composite stairs with horizontal black railing running alongside

Tiered composite platform deck stepping down in levels

See more of the work

Build Your Dream Backyard. Pay Over Time.

Flexible financing options available through Hearth. Spread the cost of your deck or outdoor space over monthly payments instead of paying for the whole project up front.

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Common questions

What is the difference between TimberTech and AZEK?

They are the same company. TimberTech composite boards have a wood based core with a polymer cap. AZEK boards are capped polymer with no wood in them at all, which makes them lighter, cooler underfoot and better suited to wet or low clearance decks. AZEK costs more.

Is TimberTech better than Trex?

Neither is simply better. Both will outlast a wood deck by a wide margin. TimberTech's polymer range gives it an edge for wet or low decks, Trex has a colour range plenty of people prefer, and price overlaps heavily between the two. We show you samples of both.

Does TimberTech decking scratch?

The cap resists scratching but nothing outdoors is scratch proof. Furniture feet and grit dragged under a chair are the usual culprits. Pads under furniture legs deal with most of it.

Can you match an existing TimberTech deck?

Often, yes, if the line is still made. Bring us the name of the board or a photo of the underside where the product is stamped, and we will tell you what is still available.