If you’re considering building your own outdoor living space, you’re likely wondering: “How hard is it to build a deck?” The answer depends on how complex your deck design is, the size and shape of your space, and whether or not you’ll add a picture frame to your deck. No matter how many design elements you include, however, knowing the easiest way to build a deck with TimberTech will introduce you to some of the most important elements to decide on:
- Deck material
- Fasteners
- Railing
How do these elements factor in? And just what is the easiest way to build a deck? Get your carpenter’s pencil out and settle in.
Before You Build: Select Your Decking Material
Ease is important to you — not just because of initial effort, but because you don’t want to have to invest time and money into long-term deck repair and replacement.
The right deck material should be straightforward to install and hassle-free for the long haul. Enter TimberTech® AZEK® decking.
Why Choose Capped Polymer
TimberTech AZEK boasts the most advanced synthetic material technology without the use of wood particles. It also offers some serious additional benefits, like:
- Industry-leading warranties.
- 30% lighter than competitive products: Save your back, save time on the job, and save money.
- Alloy Armour Technology®: Protects from fading, staining, and weathering.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for the easiest way to build a deck that delivers nature-inspired beauty — and doesn’t deliver traditional wood’s headaches — TimberTech AZEK decking is the way to go.
Want a Decking Overview? Need more info on the TimberTech decking portfolio? Compare decking lines and get the insight you need to kickstart your project. GET THE OVERVIEW
Easiest Way to Build a Deck With TimberTech
For an enduringly beautiful outdoor living space that locks in beauty, kicks out moisture, and saves you time, money, and hassle, our deck experts recommend:
Let’s break down each.
What & Why: Capped Polymer Decking
TimberTech AZEK capped polymer decking is the premium choice, both in terms of performance and aesthetics.
Performance: Because it’s lighter in weight (with no dense organic material) and offers the option for convenient top-down installation, TimberTech AZEK decking lets you optimize time and effort on the job site — whether you DIY your deck or go with an expert contractor.
Aesthetics: It’s not just about the easiest way to build a deck; you also want your final build to be as beautiful as possible. With realistic wood grain patterns and nature-inspired hues, TimberTech AZEK is as attractive as it is install-ready.

TimberTech AZEK Vintage Collection®
Dubbed our “Designer Collection,” the Vintage Collection features complex, multi-color blending.
Choose for:
- A super realistic wood look.
- Multi-Width Decking

TimberTech AZEK Harvest Collection®
The Harvest Collection offers monochromatic hues and a traditional cathedral grain pattern.
Choose for:
- A clean painted-wood look.
- Option for wide-width deck boards.
What & Why: Top-Down Fasteners
Top-down fasteners are installed simply with pressure applied from above. Top-down installation can mean faster, easier applications at the work site.
Our top-down fasteners are also color-matched or hidden to pair beautifully with your TimberTech deck boards. Enjoy a secure hold without taking away from your deck’s beautiful design.
Your Top-Down Fastener Options

Cortex® for AZEK®
Cortex hidden plugs offer:
- Top-down installation.
- Strongest hidden fastener connection.
- Can be used on the entire deck surface including stairs and the perimeter.
- Plugs to hide the fastener are made from TimberTech decking for a perfect match.
- No pre-drilling required for Cortex for AZEK.

TOPLoc® Fastener Pack for AZEK®
Color-matched TOPloc screws offer:
- Top-down installation.
- Screw heads painted to complement decking colors.
- Specially designed fasteners for polymer material.
- No pre-drilling required.
How to: Install AZEK® With Cortex®
How to: Install AZEK® With TOPLoc®
What & Why: Panelized Metal Railing
If you want the easiest way to build a deck with all the elegance of a long-term project, choose a railing system that offers a fast and easy install without compromising on aesthetics.
Panelized Metal Railing:
High-Style, Low-Effort
Our Impression Rail Express® is designed to make installation fast and easy, and to keep your railing looking as sleek on day 1,000 as on day 1.
- No unsightly weld beads or rattling in the wind per no-weld locking technology.
- Safety and clear sightlines thanks to narrow, secured balusters.
- Clean look and attractive aesthetic via fully hidden brackets (even for angles and stairs).
For even more information on the easiest way to build a deck, and to access downloadable project guides for your TimberTech AZEK deck project, explore the Deck Building Resource Center.
Remember: Even the easiest way to build a deck with TimberTech can have its nuances. If you’re looking for the insight of a decking specialist, partner with a TimberTech-registered contractor to get all the insight you need to do your project right.
Bring the Beauty of TimberTech to Your Backyard
Work with one of our registered contractors for a build that transforms your outdoor living space.