Verify TimberTech Product Line and Color
TimberTech offers different product lines: Azek (full PVC), Pro (capped composite), and Edge (capped composite). Each line has distinct characteristics regarding material composition, warranty, and appearance. Azek, for example, is full PVC, known for zero moisture absorption and cooler surface temperatures, making it suitable for pool surrounds or docks. Pro and Edge are capped composites, offering wood-look aesthetics at different price points.
Confirm the specific TimberTech line and color you have chosen with your contractor. Refer to physical samples, as multi-tonal streaking and cathedral grain patterns can vary. Ensure the chosen color aligns with your design intent and the project's environmental conditions. For instance, if the deck is near a pool, the cooler-underfoot properties of Azek PVC might be a key consideration. This verification helps prevent discrepancies between your design and the delivered materials.
TimberTech's lines include Azek (Vintage + Harvest), Pro (Legacy + Terrain), and Edge (Prime + Premier). Common colors stocked include Mahogany, Weathered Teak, and Coastline in Azek; Dark Hickory, Tigerwood, and Silver Maple in Pro; and Coconut Husk and Sea Salt Gray in Edge. Double-check the exact color name and line during this verification stage.
Confirm Board Dimensions and Profiles
TimberTech decking boards are available in specific profiles and lengths. The standard board profile is 1" x 5.5", offered in both grooved and square edge options. Grooved boards are typically used with hidden fastening systems, while square edge boards are suitable for face fastening or for use as trim, fascia, or stair treads where the edges will be visible.
Discuss with your contractor the required board lengths for your project. TimberTech boards come in 12, 16, and 20-foot lengths. Planning board lengths carefully can minimize waste and reduce the number of visible seams. For a picture-frame border, square edge boards are often preferred for their finished appearance.
Ensure your contractor has incorporated these specific requirements into the material list.
Specify Fascia, Risers, and Trim
Fascia boards are used to finish the perimeter of the deck, providing a clean, continuous look that matches the decking. Stair risers also require matching materials. TimberTech offers a fascia program that coordinates across all three product lines.
Clearly define the dimensions and quantities of fascia boards needed for the deck perimeter, stair risers, and any other trim elements. These are typically square edge boards, and their lengths should be coordinated with the main decking boards to ensure a consistent appearance. Mistakes here can lead to mismatched edges or insufficient material for a complete finish.
Choose Compatible Fastening Systems
TimberTech decking can be installed using hidden clips for grooved boards or Cortex plugs for face-fastened applications. The choice of fastening system impacts both the aesthetics and the installation process. Hidden clips create a smooth, fastener-free surface, while face fastening with Cortex plugs provides a secure attachment with color-matched plugs.
Confirm with your contractor which fastening system will be used and ensure the correct type and quantity of fasteners are included in the order. If using hidden clips, ensure they are compatible with the chosen TimberTech line. If face-fastening, verify the color of the Cortex plugs matches your selected decking boards for a seamless look.
Hypothetical Project Example: A 12x16 Foot Deck
Let's consider a hypothetical 12x16 foot rectangular deck using TimberTech Pro in 'Dark Hickory' with a picture-frame border and a straight lay main field. The deck will be elevated, requiring fascia on all four sides and a set of four 4-foot wide stairs.
Main Decking (12x16 ft): For a straight lay, we'll use 16-foot grooved boards. A 12-foot width would need approximately 12 ft / 5.5 inches per board = 26.18 boards. Rounding up to the nearest whole board, we'd need 27 boards. If using 16-foot lengths, we'd purchase 27 x 16-foot grooved boards.
Picture Frame Border: For a single border around the 12x16 foot deck, we'd need two 16-foot square edge boards and two 12-foot square edge boards. Since 12-foot boards are available, we would order two 16-foot and two 12-foot square edge boards. This allows for mitered corners.
Fascia: For the perimeter (12+16+12+16 = 56 linear feet), using 16-foot square edge boards for fascia, we would need 56 / 16 = 3.5 boards. We would purchase four 16-foot square edge boards.
Stair Risers: For four 4-foot wide stairs, we need 4 risers x 4 feet = 16 linear feet. Using 16-foot square edge boards, one 16-foot board would suffice, with some cutting.
Fasteners: For the main deck, if using hidden clips, the contractor will estimate the required quantity based on the board footage. For the picture frame, fascia, and risers, face fastening with Dark Hickory Cortex plugs would be used, and the quantity estimated by the contractor based on linear footage and desired spacing.
Total Material List (Hypothetical): 27 x 16-foot TimberTech Pro Grooved Boards (Dark Hickory), 2 x 16-foot TimberTech Pro Square Edge Boards (Dark Hickory), 2 x 12-foot TimberTech Pro Square Edge Boards (Dark Hickory), 4 x 16-foot TimberTech Pro Square Edge Boards (Dark Hickory) for fascia, 1 x 16-foot TimberTech Pro Square Edge Board (Dark Hickory) for stair risers, plus hidden clips and Cortex plugs as estimated by the contractor.
Before you order
- Confirm the exact TimberTech product line (Azek, Pro, or Edge) and specific color.
- Verify the chosen board profile (grooved or square edge) for each application.
- Agree on board lengths (12, 16, or 20 ft) to minimize waste and seams.
- Specify quantities and dimensions for all fascia, risers, and trim boards.
- Confirm the chosen fastening system (hidden clips or face fastening with Cortex plugs).
- Ensure all accessories, such as end caps or specialized trim, are included.
- Review any specific installation requirements, like joist spacing for diagonal layouts.
- Confirm the delivery address and any access considerations for materials.
Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.
Questions to help you decide
What is the primary difference between TimberTech Azek and TimberTech Pro?
TimberTech Azek is a full PVC product, meaning it contains zero wood fiber, making it impervious to moisture and suitable for applications like pool decks and docks. It also tends to be cooler underfoot. TimberTech Pro is a four-sided capped composite, offering a realistic wood look with Mold Guard protection. Both are durable, but Azek's PVC composition offers distinct advantages in moisture-prone environments.
How do I choose between grooved and square edge TimberTech boards?
Grooved boards are designed for use with hidden fastening systems, which create a smooth, fastener-free deck surface. Square edge boards are used for face fastening, as well as for applications where the board edges will be visible, such as perimeter boards, fascia, stair treads, and risers.
Are TimberTech decking boards available in different widths?
The standard TimberTech board profile is 1" x 5.5". While this is the most common width, it is always best to confirm current available profiles and sizes with your supplier or contractor, as product offerings can evolve.
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