“In this episode, Pat Maher explains the key differences between TimberTech’s Advanced PVC and composite decking options.”

- Jim Coshow

Manufactured decking brands like TimberTech have redefined the reliability and versatility of modern decking. From impressive durability to low-maintenance care, manufactured materials offer a wide range of benefits. But to get the most out of innovative products like TimberTech decking, it’s important to move beyond surface-level features and understand the nuances of each material—and the best practices for working with them.

In our TimberTech series, we're joined by Pat Maher, product application manager and head of AZEK University (TimberTech is an outdoor living brand of the AZEK Company). TimberTech is an industry leader in manufactured decking and a longtime Dunn Lumber partner. Pat brings a lifetime of experience in building materials, with 20 years focused specifically on manufactured decking. We’re excited to share his unique and seasoned perspective. 

At a glance

When it comes to choosing the right manufactured decking for your needs, you’ve got options. In this episode, learn about the differences between PVC and composite decking—including how PVC and composite cores differ, why PVC stays cooler under the sun, and which options offer the best fire resistance. We also cover cost-saving features like scalloped profiles and capping, and how PVC delivers unmatched design versatility for custom shapes and widths.

Watch the video above, or read a summary of our conversation below.

PVC vs. Composite decking: Core differences

In this episode, Pat Maher explains the key differences between TimberTech’s Advanced PVC and composite decking options, starting with the products’ core. Capped-composite decking has a core made from a mix of recycled wood fiber and plastic. PVC features a core of cellular PVC, which is characterized by microscopic air bubbles that reduce the material’s weight—and is also made of recycled plastic.

Recycling post-consumer and post-industrial plastic materials has been a top priority for TimberTech and its parent company, AZEK, which led to the introduction of AZEK Full-Circle PVC Recycling. Through this program, installers and dealers can collect PVC pipe, vinyl siding, and PVC deck boards, then send them back to AZEK for reprocessing and reuse in new product cores.

Resilient materials for a changing climate

When it comes to protection from the elements, both PVC and composite decking can be capped on three or four sides. With three-sided capping, the underside of the board is exposed to moisture, which is suitable for decks with proper airflow. Four-sided capping seals the board entirely, making it ideal for ground-level decks or those in high-moisture climates where airflow is limited.

TimberTech's products are designed to stand up to more than moisture. Over the years, the company has enhanced its cap formula to resist UV exposure, high temperatures, and even fire. As a result, TimberTech offers a 50-year fade and stain warranty on PVC products and a 30-year warranty on composite products—giving homeowners peace of mind that weather-related oxidation won’t be an issue.

Heat buildup is another key consideration for homeowners who want decks that stay comfortable for bare feet—and paws. Thanks to its more porous core, PVC tends to remain cooler than composite because it absorbs less UV radiation. Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean it will always be cool to the touch. As with all materials, darker colors will be warmer than lighter ones.

With the increasing risk of wildfires, many homeowners are choosing materials that resist ignition and won’t contribute to fire spread. Two of TimberTech’s PVC lines—the Vintage Collection® and Landmark Collection®—carry the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Class A Flame Spread Rating, meaning they won’t accelerate the spread of fire. For those interested in composite, TimberTech’s Reserve Collection is rated fire-resistant. In general, PVC is recommended for decking projects in areas with a high wildfire risk.

Elegant aesthetics for every budget

Decks aren’t just functional—they’re a central feature of your outdoor living space. If achieving a true wood look is important, TimberTech’s PVC Vintage Collection® is a standout option. Within the composite lines, homeowners can choose from three embossed finishes to achieve a rustic or hand-scraped look.

Some PVC and composite products feature a scalloped profile on the board’s underside, reducing the amount of material used—and ultimately the cost. Choosing three-sided capping can also lower the price point.

For those seeking the greatest design flexibility, PVC decking offers the most options. TimberTech’s Vintage Collection® comes in wide (7.25”), standard (5.5”), and narrow (3.5”) board widths that can be mixed and matched for visual interest. Through a process called heat bending, PVC boards can be warmed with heat blankets to become pliable. Once heated, installers can curve them into custom shapes. For added finesse, wide boards can be notched on the underside and shaped with a heat gun to “waterfall” over deck edges or stair transitions—creating a seamless, elegant finish.

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