Decking
The surface that brings your deck to life
Decking is what you see and feel every day, so it’s both functional and aesthetic. The right decking material, properly installed, provides durability, low maintenance, and a beautiful finish for years of enjoyment.
At Witter Construction, we use premium decking materials and install them with precision to ensure a long-lasting, low-maintenance deck surface.
Materials We Use
We specialize in premium low-maintenance decking materials, including:
TimberTech PVC & Composite – our standard choice for long-lasting performance, resisting fading, mold, and moisture
Western Red Cedar – traditional, naturally durable wood with a warm, natural look
Each material is selected for long-term performance and matched to the project’s design and environmental conditions.
Choosing Your Deck Colors
Selecting the right colors for your decking and fascia can transform the look of your outdoor space and also affect comfort underfoot. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Lighter Colors Stay Cooler: Lighter-toned boards reflect sunlight and stay more comfortable underfoot on hot days.
PVC vs. Composite: TimberTech PVC decking generally stays cooler than composite decking because it contains no organic material, making it ideal for sunny areas.
Dark Colors Absorb Heat: Darker boards, regardless of material, will hold more heat in direct sunlight. Consider darker tones for shaded areas or if warmth underfoot is desired in cooler climates.
Mix & Match: Homeowners can choose more than one color for their decking to create unique patterns or accent areas. Some TimberTech collections also offer multi-width boards, adding even more design flexibility — the options are nearly endless.
Complement Your Home: Your deck color should harmonize with your home’s exterior, trim, and landscaping. Accent colors for fascia or multi-tier designs can add depth and character.
Maintenance & Appearance: Lighter colors tend to show dirt and debris less than very dark colors, though all TimberTech decking is low-maintenance and designed to resist fading.
By considering sun exposure, comfort, and your personal design preferences, you can create a deck that’s both functional and visually striking.
Standard Installation Practices
Board Layout & Fastening
Hidden Fasteners: We use Camo Edge hidden fasteners for all TimberTech decking to provide a clean, fastener-free surface.
Board Spacing: Boards are installed using the manufacturer’s recommended board spacers, ensuring proper spacing for expansion, contraction, and drainage.
Board Layout Planning: Deck boards are laid out with lengths in mind to maximize efficiency, minimize material waste, and create a clean appearance.
Cut Ends Protection: All composite board cut ends are sealed with end-coat to protect the exposed fibers and prevent moisture absorption. PVC decking does not require end-coating, as it contains no organic material.
Joist Support
Decking is supported by joists designed according to the deck’s span and material (see Substructure page for joist sizing and spacing).
Proper joist spacing ensures the deck feels solid and prevents sagging or bounce.
Cut Ends & Edge Finishing
All board ends are cut cleanly and squared.
Edges are finished neatly to prevent splintering or water accumulation.
Fascia & Deck Edge Design
Fascia boards are the finishing touch along the deck’s perimeter.
Design Options:
Number of Tiers: Choose a single-tier or multi-tier fascia for a more layered, dimensional appearance.
Grading to the Ground: For decks positioned less than 2’ above grade, fascia can be designed to “grade” down to the ground. Higher decks typically use skirting instead.
Picture Frame Design: When the main decking features a picture frame layout, the fascia is typically set slightly below the picture frame, creating a clean nosing that adds dimension and refinement to the deck’s overall appearance.
Accent Color: Selecting a custom accent color for the fascia is an easy way to impart a unique style and complement your home’s design.
Installation Highlights:
Fascia boards are surface fastened with color-matched composite screws, installed with intentional spacing for a clean, uniform appearance
Corners and ends are finished neatly for a professional, polished look
Moisture Management
Even low-maintenance materials benefit from proper moisture management:
Boards are installed to allow water to drain freely
Spacing accounts for seasonal expansion and contraction
Fasteners and hidden clips minimize penetration points for water
Surface-mounted deck boards are plugged to cover exposed fasteners, protecting against moisture and creating a clean, finished appearance. Some boards with scalloped bottom profiles, like those in the TimberTech Composite Prime Collection, cannot be plugged.
Maintenance Recommendations
Our TimberTech decking is designed to be low-maintenance. To keep it looking its best:
Follow our recommended cleaning schedule for TimberTech PVC & Composite
For full, detailed instructions, see our Deck Cleaning & Maintenance Guide
Why Our Decking Stands Out
Many decks fail to perform long-term due to improper board spacing, unsupported spans, or using low-quality materials. By carefully selecting decking, fastening properly, and integrating with a solid substructure, our decks:
Stay level and solid under foot
Resist warping, fading, and staining
Maintain a polished appearance for years with minimal upkeep