Frequently
Asked Questions

We understand how important color choice is to a homeowner. That’s why we created a simple way of searching TimberTech decking and railing by color.

Browse our colors.

TimberTech decking is manufactured in Wilmington, OH. USA

There are two ways to see TimberTech products in person. 1) Visit a dealer in your area or 2) Call our agent in your country.

Yes. TimberTech decking is made from up to 80% recycled materials. It won’t splinter or warp the way wood does, so it dramatically reduces the wasteful cycle of repair and replacements. It also eliminates the frequent application of environmentally harmful paint, sealers, and stains.

• TimberTech deck boards are manufactured with recycled wood materials that would otherwise go into landfills. In addition, TimberTech is able to regrind scrap product back into the manufacturing process.
• TimberTech recycles water during the manufacturing process.
• TimberTech does not require painting, staining, or sealing..

Saltwater climates are an ideal application for TimberTech products because saltwater will have no ill effects on TimberTech. However, we do not recommend submerging TimberTech boards into saltwater. Please verify that all decking fasteners to be used are applicable to a saltwater environment.

While you can install TimberTech products yourself, we highly recommend hiring a TimberTech Pro contractor. They’re trained to install our products, so they’ll ensure that everything is installed properly and abides by the manufacturer’s guidelines. From quick replacements to brand new custom decks, our Pros are ready and able to tackle your next project.

Yes, we do have a catalog. You can either view TimberTech’s online digital catalog.

Yes. Over the years, TimberTech has gained international recognition as a leading manufacturer of high-quality, durable, and innovative low-maintenance decking and railing products and has established a strong presence in many markets around the world.

Yes. TimberTech AZEK Decking is the ideal material to use around water because it’s capped polymer decking, making it resistant to rot and decay caused by moisture. It’s comprised of 100% synthetic materials, so it’s not susceptible to moisture related deterioration commonly seen with wood. Its composition protects it against rotting, warping, and cupping—all water-related issues.
If you want to include a water feature in your deck plan, TimberTech AZEK capped polymer decking is the perfect material to choose.

We offer a whole range of colors and styles, from sleek and modern, to traditional, to rustic. You can even bring indoor flooring looks to the outdoor deck. TimberTech Deck has one of the widest selections of styles and colors to choose from, ranging from light natural shades, to neutrals, to deep rich colors of the tropics. There’s sure to be a look that complements your home’s exterior. Review our decking collection to see all available colors, swatches, and inspiration.

TimberTech offers a range of decking material options including high-quality composite decking made of a combination of plastic and wood fibers, and a premium decking made of 100% PVC material.

Yes, TimberTech Decking can get mold on it. Depending on environmental conditions of moisture and temperature, mold and mildew can appear on any outdoor surface. However, mold and mildew on TimberTech decking only occurs on the surface of the boards and does not penetrate through the deck board. Surface mold and mildew on TimberTech Deck can be removed using a cleaner such as Chomp®, Zep 505®, Simple Green®, Krud Kutter®, or a 1-to-4 mixture of bleach and water. Apply cleaner or mixture directly to affected area, use a stiff nylon bristle scrub brush, and scrub the area until the mold or mildew is removed. Rinse the area thoroughly and towel dry. Repeat if needed.

Terrain, Tropical, Legacy can be cantilevered a maximum of 1”. Terrain can only be cantilevered on the ends.

Routing should only be performed to create a 2” groove above each joist when transitioning from solid boards to grooved on a hidden fastener installation. Full details are available in the Installation and Maintenance Guide.

Do not use caulk to fasten TimberTech boards or to seal between any of our boards. This will impede the drainage of the board and inhibit the natural expansion and contraction of the boards.

We do not recommend painting or staining TimberTech decking. While it is possible to paint our uncapped composite boards, TimberTech cannot guarantee the performance of paint, stain, or other materials, applied to the product. For further information on painting or staining your TimberTech decking, refer to our Care and Cleaning Recommendations.

Yes. You can view all TimberTech color inspirations on the Find Your Color page.

Yes, you can replace wood boards with composite, though there are a few factors to take into consideration. First, you will want to make sure your substructure is code-compliant and can hold the extra weight of a TimberTech composite board. Confirm that the thickness of the new TimberTech board is the same as the wooden board it replaces to ensure your deck remains smooth and flat. You can find the thickness of our products on their individual product pages. So, although replacing old wood deck boards with composite can be done, it will likely result in an undesirable patchwork appearance. A better option, if your substructure is code-compliant, would be to re-plank your entire deck with all composite material.

Fire regulations and codes continue to evolve in the building industry. TimberTech is committed to manufacturing products that are fully compliant with these requirements, and safe for our customers. All of our TimberTech products are tested to exceed Flame Spread Index requirements.

CONCEALoc is our most popular fastener for use with our grooved boards for a fastener-free finish. Cortex or TOPLoc are two other fastener options that can be used for just stairs and perimeters, or the entire deck. Cortex provides a discrete hidden-fastening solution, while TOPLoc provides an engineered, color-matched option.
Please note that not all fasteners are compatible with all TimberTech decking boards, and using the incorrect fastening system will void your warranty. For example, CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners or L-Brackets should not be used for stair installation. Always use the fasteners that are specifically recommended to work with your chosen TimberTech product.

Yes, our capped polymer decking and capped composite decking comes with industry-leading fade and stain warranties. And while any exterior product will fade over time to some degree, all of our lines of decking are technologically engineered to be fade and stain resistant. TimberTech EDGE decking products are backed by our 25-Year Fade & Stain Warranty, TimberTech PRO decking products are backed by our 30-Year Fade & Stain Warranty, and, for the ultimate in steadfast color, TimberTech AZEK decking and porch products are backed by our 50-Year Fade & Stain Warranty. However, our uncapped wood composite boards will gradually weather over time, without compromising the structural integrity, as nature takes its course.

Yes, when the pressure is set to 1300 psi or lower, and when using a fan tip nozzle. Always keep the nozzle at a reasonable distance from the surface to prevent damage. To be safe, first try the power washer on a scrap piece or inconspicuous area of TimberTech Deck to be sure that you will not damage the surface. In some situations, power washing alone may not provide optimal results.

No, adhesive and caulks are not recommended for use with TimberTech decking. Do not get any PVC glue or similar substance on the surface of a TimberTech deck, as it may discolor and permanently damage the TimberTech deck surface. Additionally, do not use caulk to fasten TimberTech boards or to seal between any of our boards. This will impede the drainage of the board and inhibit the natural expansion and contraction of the boards.

When a TimberTech AZEK deck board is properly and securely attached to framing or sub-structure which is rigid and soundly fastened to building or structure, TimberTech AZEK deck boards can be used in a rooftop application. However, in areas with unobstructed airflow, like roofs and on grade applications, a minimum of 1 1⁄2” sleeper system is required. The deck boards must be attached to a properly secured understructure and leave a minimum of a 1/8” gap between deck boards. DO NOT ATTACH DECK BOARDS TO A FLOATING SUB-STRUCTURE. Consult the TimberTech AZEK Deck Installation Guidelines for recommended fastening. As always, be sure to consult your local building code official(s) for railing requirements on any deck application. To get deck and railing ideas, be sure to check out our Deck Designer.

It’s best to clean small, manageable areas to prevent the cleaner from drying on the deck or porch surface. All cleaning products should be rinsed off thoroughly. Always read the cleaning product manufacturer's specific information before using any product on your TimberTech deck and follow their instructions. It’s also a good idea to test the cleaner on a scrap piece or inconspicuous area of the deck to make sure it doesn’t harm the surface.

When TimberTech Decking is properly fastened to structurally sound and secure framing, there is no minimum height or ground clearance requirement. Be sure to follow all recommended guidelines for installing TimberTech Decking.

Any exterior product will fade over time to some degree – that’s the nature of nature. For the ultimate in steadfast color, our TimberTech AZEK boards are technologically engineered to show minimal fading, backed by a 50-year Fade & Stain Warranty. However, our uncapped wood composite boards will gradually weather, like wood, over time.

While TimberTech products are great for deck replanking (removing old deck surface boards and installing TimberTech on code-compliant substructure), TimberTech boards CANNOT be installed on top of existing deck boards.
In areas with obstructed airflow such as roofs and on-grade applications, a minimum of 1-1/2” sleeper system supported by and connected to the substructure over which the deck is built is required.

Yes, TimberTech decking and railing can be utilized to surface a ramp. We recommend consulting with a local contractor and check local building codes for requirements and best practices. It’s also good to use a decking material that is slip-resistant.

Composite decking products, as with most outdoor building products, can retain heat especially after a long day in direct sunlight. At TimberTech, we have engineered certain formulations of our composite decking products to minimize heat build-up, so they’re cooler underfoot. If you're building a deck that will be in direct sunlight, we suggest that you consider decking options that are lighter in color, as they reflect more light, and therefore retain less heat than darker colors.

We recommend using protective plastic, rubber, or felt leg pads on furniture and other items to help protect the surface of your deck. Our products have a high scratch-resistance rating, but these easy extra steps can provide additional protection. For grill mats, a natural fiber mat that does not hold moisture will provide the best protection.

TimberTech composite decking is comprised mainly of high-density polyethylene and wood particles, but we also add proprietary ingredients to our formulation that offer increased protection from rot.

Any TimberTech product can handle a heavily wooded lot.

Most of the TimberTech Rail profiles can be installed with TimberTech round or square aluminum balusters using a Custom Rail Pack. The TimberTech Rail system has only been tested with our aluminum balusters; therefore, we do not warranty the use of other manufacturer’s components with TimberTech Rail.

TimberTech Rail can be cleaned using a soft white cloth with warm water and a mild soap, followed by a thorough rinse. Chomp Gutter cleaner also works great on TimberTech Rail. DO NOT USE Solvent based cleaners such as Goof Off, Graffiti Remover, Nail Polish Remover, or similar products on TimberTech Rail.

The Secure Mount Post is adjustable and accommodates 36’’ and 42’’ railings. We also offer a 6’’ Secure Mount Post Adaptor to make the Secure Mount Post compatible with our 6’’ Post Sleeve.

The distance from our railing can vary depending on the type of grill and size. Most grill manufacturers will have recommendations for placement in proximity to vinyl siding, and you can follow those same recommendations for TimberTech Railing. To protect your deck, a grill mat can be placed under the grill to avoid grease spills. You will want to make sure that the grill mat is safe for your composite decking.

We do offer a Glass Channel kit that allows for the installation of glass infill with TimberTech railings, including Premier Rail, Trademark Rail, RadianceRail, Contemporary Rail, and Builder Rail. The Glass Channel kits are offered in White and Black and in 6' lengths, and the glass is sold separately. Always check your local building codes before starting any project.

The benefit of using our color-matched, powder-coated rail bracket is simply ease of installation. Using the bracket provides an alternative to toe-screwing the rail between the posts, eliminating the need to pre-drill. Rail brackets also give increased structural stability.

TimberTech Secure Mount Post is a great option for the installation of TimberTech railing on a concrete surface and is adjustable to accommodate both 36” and 42” high rail installations. The Secure Mount Post can be installed directly on composite decks or concrete surfaces, and no treated 4x4 post is needed! Mounting hardware for deck installation is sold separately. Mounting hardware for concrete applications can be sourced locally.

TimberTech railing and decking products can be curved or bent using heat and force to create custom shapes. Because curving/bending is performed by customers on their own or by third-party fabricators, TimberTech cannot guarantee the integrity or performance of such applications, including the potential effect to the products’ structural rigidity, aesthetics or other product attributes. Any problems to the decking or railing products resulting from curving/bending are expressly excluded under TimberTech’s Limited Warranty. TimberTech recommends that all designs be reviewed by a licensed architect, engineer or local building official before installation

We do not recommend painting TimberTech Rail. Since TimberTech Rail is a capped composite with PVC performance materials that will never rot, peel, or splinter, there is never a need to paint them. Fortunately, TimberTech Rail comes in a variety of colors and infills for a truly customizable rail system—eliminating the need for paint altogether.

A TimberTech Rail kit contains the top rail, bottom rail, two support rails, balusters, and hardware to attach the railing section to the posts. Rail kits do not include posts, just the railing parts between the posts. TimberTech Rail kits are only available in white in Premier, RadianceRail and Trademark profiles and are available in 6’ and 8’ sections.

RadianceRail, RadianceRail Express Rail Pack contains the top rail, bottom rail, two support rails, and hardware to build a rail section. Infill options are sold separately to allow for more custom styling.
Impression Rail is only sold in Rail Kits, which includes balusters.

The TimberTech Glass Channel kits include a top and bottom aluminum channel, rubber gaskets, and fasteners required to attach the channels to our composite railing. The TimberTech Glass Channel kits do not contain the glass panels.

6’ rails are 72” in length from the manufacturer, but both ends must be cut down a minimum of 1” to achieve proper baluster spacing between the last baluster and the post to comply with local code requirements. 8’ rails are 96” in length. 10’ rails are 120” in length.

While RadianceRail Express Brackets are fixed and do not swivel, they do accommodate angles up to 45 degrees.

The expanded steel in the rail is galvanized.

RadianceRail Packs are available in 6′, 8′ and 10′ sections, measured from center of post to center of post. The additional material is provided to allow for angles and end cuts/trimming.

TimberTech Riser Lights are typically centered on the stairs. Some municipalities have differing codes specific to stair lighting. Be sure to check your local code requirements before installation. We also offer Post Cap and Post Accent Lights for more illumination at the top and bottom of the stairs. The number of lights you install on your stairs is largely a personal preference—so have fun with it. For inspiration, check out the TimberTech Lighting page.

No special tools are required for our hand-driven CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners when using TimberTech grooved planks—just a drill/driver. We provide a #1 square-drive bit with the screws and CONCEALoc clips. If using TimberTech solid planks, you will need to use a router fitted with TimberTech's CONCEALoc router bit to create a groove at each joist. You can find complete details on how to install CONCEALoc in grooved and solid planks in the TimberTech Installation Resources guide. The gun pail option of the CONCEALoc Hidden Fasteners requires a pneumatic installation tool available through TigerClaw/FastenMaster.

TimberTech CortexTM fasteners can be used on all TimberTech decking for perimeter boards and stairs, except for ReliaBoard or Terrain profiles. Cortex provides a discrete, hidden fastening solution for perimeter boards and stairs. Combined with TimberTech CONCEALoc or FUSIONLoc for the main decking areas, you can enjoy a complete hidden fastening solution for the entire deck surface.

Each bottle of TimberTech End Coating will cover approximately 250 end cuts.

Yes. View the “TimberTech Decking Installation using CONCEALoc Hidden Fastener" video on our Installation Help page.

Yes, any angle up to 45 degrees can be achieved. On angles, offset the center of the fastener ½’’ towards the long point of the joist so the screw will not exit the side of the joist when driven. Reference our Installation Resources guide.

CONCEALoc and FUSIONLoc fasteners are not color-matched to our decking. These hidden fastening systems are designed to combine ease of installation with the look of a flawless, fastener-free surface. CONCEALoc, offered in Brown, and FUSIONLoc, offered in Black, blend with the framing in the gaps between the deck planks.
With the exception of ReliaBoard and Terrain profiles, you can combine with TimberTech Cortex—available in multiple colors that complement our decking—for the perimeter boards and stairs to enjoy a complete hidden fastening solution for the entire deck surface.

The CONCEALoc fastening system provides consistent spacing between the sides of the planks. You will need to gap the ends at all butt joints, and where the plank ends meet an adjoining structure or post per our Installation & Maintenance Guide.

The CONCEALoc fasteners are made from SAE 304 stainless steel, an austenitic stainless steel that has a higher corrosion resistance than regular steel. The hand-driven screws are stainless steel, while the pneumatically driven screws are coated carbon.

To maintain the 5-Year Warranty for TimberTech Lighting, our LED Lighting products must be installed using the TimberTech Transformer or PowerPack. We have tested our lighting and transformer together, and we are confident in their performance.

There are a few instances when you will need to pre-drill while installing a TimberTech deck. Cortex fasteners require a 3/16’’ pre-drill. If you are using TimberTech TOPLoc fasteners or an alternative composite deck screw, then pre-drilling is required when within 1 ½” of the ends of the planks, as well as for installation in temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. This is to help avoid splitting of the plank and screw shearing.

We recommend working with your local contractor to help design and build your benches and planters. TimberTech benches and planters can be built using any of our decking products over a structural sub-structure.

No, you cannot use TimberTech as a joist. TimberTech is not intended for use as columns, support posts, beams, joist stringers, or other primary load-bearing members. TimberTech must only be supported by a code-compliant substructure.

Yes, TimberTech decking can be installed in cold weather, but the installation requirements may change a bit depending on the temperature. For example, for temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, pre-drilling is required for all TimberTech composite and capped-composite products when face fastening. The gapping requirements also change depending on the temperature. You can find those specific requirements in the Decking Installation Guide. We always recommend contacting a professional builder or contractor before starting your deck project.

TimberTech Secure Mount Post is a great option for the installation of TimberTech railing on a concrete surface and is adjustable to accommodate both 36” and 42” high rail installations. The Secure Mount Post can be installed directly on composite decks or concrete surfaces, and no treated 4x4 post is needed. Mounting hardware for deck installation is sold separately. Mounting hardware for concrete applications can be sourced locally.

No, it isn’t necessary to create a loop with the TimberTech LED Lights. You can end the run at your last light.

For the most up-to-date installation information, please check out our Installation Help page.

The answer depends on the line of decking you are installing, and whether or not it is being used as a veneer. As always, we recommend consulting a building professional and referring to the Installation Help page.

Read the full details regarding all current TimberTech warranties

Photos are required to resolve any claim. Additional information may be requested and supplied after registration is complete. Photos should include overall views from each side of the deck to illustrate structure, deck elevation, and general surroundings. For elevated decks, photos of the understructure are helpful.
When taking specific photos illustrating the problem area(s), consider:

• For concerns regarding structural movement or warping, placing a straight edge on the deck surface provides a reference point to better illustrate the area of concern. (Common straight edges are a builder’s level, board, broom handle, etc.)
• Photos specific to areas with aesthetic concerns do not require a straight edge reference point.
• Clarity of photos will expedite the review process

The TimberTech Warranty may be transferred one (1) time, within the five (5) year period beginning from the date of original purchase by Purchaser, to a subsequent buyer of the property upon which the TimberTech Products were originally installed.

1. Homeowner contact information
2. Location of deck (if different than primary residence)
3. Details regarding installer (Self-installed/contractor-installed)
4. If installed by a contractor, name and contact information for installing contractor
5. Retailer information
6. Date of purchase
7. Date of installation
8. Style and color of your TimberTech product
9. Invoices from original purchase of TimberTech products
10. Photo images detailing product issue
11. Detailed description of the nature of the problem.

TimberTech does not warrant against and is not responsible for, and no implied warranty shall be deemed to cover, any product failure, product malfunction, or damages attributable to: (1) improper installation of the TimberTech Products and/or failure to abide by TimberTech’s installation guidelines, including but not limited to improper gapping; (2) use of TimberTech Products beyond normal use, or in an application not recommended by the TimberTech installation guidelines and local building codes; (3) movement, distortion, collapse or settling of the ground or the supporting structure on which the TimberTech Products are installed; (4) any act of God (such as flooding, hurricane, earthquake, lightning, etc.), environmental condition (such as air pollution, mold, mildew, etc.), or staining from foreign substances (such as dirt, grease, oil, etc.); (5) variations or changes in color of TimberTech Products; (6) normal weathering due to exposure to sunlight, weather and atmosphere which can cause colored surfaces to, among other things, flake, chalk, or accumulate dirt or stains; (7) improper handling, storage, abuse or neglect of the TimberTech Products by Purchaser, the transferee or third parties; (8) any fasteners not supplied by TimberTech; or (9) minor dripping from DrySpace. This warranty shall not cover, and TimberTech shall not be responsible for, costs and expenses incurred with respect to the removal of the defective TimberTech Products or the installation of replacement materials, including but not limited to, labor and freight.

Invoices from the retailer are preferred as it provides much of the required information all in one spot, such as point of purchase, date of purchase, material description and counts.
Preferred documents:

• Original retail sales invoice
• Original contract with installer*
• Building permit

• Credit card statement
• Cancelled check image

As with any walking surface, TimberTech decking products may become slippery in winter weather. Use caution when walking on your TimberTech deck in these conditions. Most products containing calcium chloride can be used without damage to the deck/porch surface. These products may leave a white residue which can be cleaned using the cleaning guidelines above. Metal shovels or plastic shovels with a metal leading edge may damage the surface of TimberTech decking, and are not recommended for clearing snow from the deck surface. For more information, visit Care and Cleaning.

Yes, you can power-wash a TimberTech deck. First, remember to spray in the direction of the brush/grain pattern to avoid damaging the product. Always take the proper safety precautions when operating a power washer. Be sure to hold the power wash wand at approximately a 30º angle. A fan tip must be used on the wand or damage to the decking will occur. For TimberTech wood-plastic composite and capped-composite decking, the recommended maximum pressure is 1500 psi. For more information, check out Care and Cleaning.

Yes. Under "Settings", in the toolbar to change the graphics preset from "Fantastic" to "Good". This will increase the speed of the processor tool without significantly affecting visual quality. You can also click “Custom” to change other variances to the look of your design.

Before ordering materials, use the Deck Designer to determine the type and quantity of materials you need. We recommend contacting a contractor or dealer to review your design to determine the complete list of materials you’ll need to bring your deck to life. They will also be able to provide accurate estimates for your deck..