Both are premium, capped and low-maintenance. Here’s how to choose the right TimberTech line for your Costa Rica project.
TimberTech makes two families of high-performance decking, and we supply and install both across Costa Rica: Advanced Polymer (capped PVC) and capped Composite. Neither is simply «better» — each is engineered for different priorities. Here’s how they compare so you can choose with confidence.
The two TimberTech decking families
Advanced Polymer (Advanced PVC)
Advanced PVC has a 100% polymer core encapsulated with a protective cap on all four sides. Because there is no organic material, it absorbs no water, resists mold and salt, and — thanks to CoolTouch technology — stays up to 30°F cooler underfoot than comparable composite in the same color. It also achieves a Class A flame spread rating and carries a Limited Lifetime Structural Warranty plus a 50-year Fade & Stain Warranty. Collections: Vintage, Landmark and Harvest.
Capped Composite
TimberTech Composite pairs a wood-plastic composite core with a durable polymer cap, giving a warm, substantial, natural-wood feel that many homeowners love. It offers the widest range of colors and price tiers — Reserve, Legacy, Terrain, Terrain+, Premier, Prime and Prime+ — so there is a composite deck for almost any project and budget, all capped and low-maintenance.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Advanced PVC (Polymer) | Capped Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Core material | 100% polymer, 4-sided cap | Wood-plastic core, polymer cap |
| Water absorption | None | Very low (fully capped) |
| Heat underfoot | Coolest — up to 30°F cooler (CoolTouch) | Cooler than wood; warmer than Advanced PVC |
| Feel | Lighter, refined | Substantial, warm, wood-like |
| Coastal & salt performance | Best-in-class | Excellent |
| Fire rating | Class A flame spread | Varies by line |
| Color & tier range | Vintage · Landmark · Harvest | Widest — Reserve to Prime |
| Warranty | Ltd. Lifetime Structural + 50-yr Fade & Stain | Limited warranties by line |
| Relative cost | Premium | Excellent value across tiers |
| Best for | Pool decks, coastal, high-sun | Most residential, Central Valley, wide color choice |
Which should you choose for your project?
Advanced PVC is the strongest choice when…
- The deck surrounds a pool or is on the coast, where water and salt exposure are constant.
- Dark colors in full sun are part of the design — CoolTouch keeps the surface walkable barefoot.
- You want the maximum warranty and the highest fire performance (Class A).
- The project is a premium vacation rental or hospitality space with intensive use.
Composite is a fantastic choice when…
- You love a warm, natural, substantial wood feel underfoot.
- You want the widest palette of colors and price tiers to match any design and budget.
- The project is in the Central Valley or set back from the coast, with moderate exposure.
- You want premium capped performance and low maintenance at excellent value.
How Costa Rica’s climate factors in
For pool decks and beachfront properties — Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa, Manuel Antonio, Jacó — Advanced PVC is our default recommendation because its 100% polymer core absorbs no water and handles salt air and intense UV best. For Central Valley homes and shaded or covered decks, capped composite delivers a beautiful, warm result with outstanding value. Both are fully capped, rot-proof and low-maintenance. See the full Advanced PVC line on our Advanced PVC decking page and the complete catalog on our TimberTech distributor page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Advanced PVC better than composite?
Neither is simply better — they are engineered for different priorities. Advanced PVC (100% polymer) is the top choice for pool decks, coastal and high-sun projects because it absorbs no water and stays coolest underfoot. Composite is an excellent, versatile choice for most residential projects, with a warm wood feel and the widest color range. Both are capped, low-maintenance and backed by AZEK.
Which stays cooler underfoot?
Advanced PVC, thanks to CoolTouch technology — up to 30°F cooler than comparable composite in the same color. This matters most for pool decks and dark colors under full sun.
Does composite decking rot or absorb water?
TimberTech composite has a polymer cap on all sides that dramatically limits moisture, so it won’t rot like natural wood. Advanced PVC goes a step further with a 100% polymer core that absorbs no water at all.
Which is better for a beachfront or coastal property?
Advanced PVC is our default recommendation near the coast — no water absorption, best-in-class salt performance and Class A fire rating. Composite also performs very well, especially for properties set back from the beach.
Is composite cheaper than Advanced PVC?
Composite spans several tiers (Reserve, Legacy, Terrain, Premier and more), offering excellent value at a range of price points, while Advanced PVC sits at the premium end. We help you match the right line to your project and budget.
Do you carry both in Costa Rica?
Yes. As the exclusive TimberTech distributor in Costa Rica, Tech Deck & Flooring supplies and installs the full Advanced Polymer and Composite catalogs, with samples, technical guidance and warranty registration through AZEK.
Not sure which TimberTech deck fits?
Tell us about your project — pool, terrace, coastal or Central Valley — and we’ll recommend the right line.
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