Try Our Free Design Tool to DIY Your Dream Deck
Explore endless design possibilities - try out different dimensions, build a multi-level deck, or add in stairs. Once your design is complete, download the plans to DIY your deck or share with your contractor.
Join the thousands of homeowners designing every month
Ready To Get Your Project Started?
Find Decking Contractors Near You and Bring Your Design to Life
- Independent contractor's license (as required)
- Trained in high-quality materials installation
- Carries general liability insurance (as required)
- Experiment with different square footage
- Try out unique features like octagons or multi-levels
- Save or download your designs for easy sharing
- View your design in 3D or multiple 2D views
- Download permit plans and build specs
- Get a breakdown list for all suggested materials
The Deck Designer tool can help you create the perfect outdoor space for your home. With this tool, you can choose from a variety of composite decking boards, railings, and other accessories to create a custom deck to enhance your home's value and curb appeal.
To get started, you will need to create an account and log in. Once you're logged in, you can begin designing your dream deck.
Consider the following when designing your deck:
- What kind of material do you want to use?
- The size and shape of your deck.
- Choose the right accessories to finish it off.
Once you have made your selections, you can then begin adding features to your deck. For example, you can add stairs, railings, and other accessories. You can also add lighting to your deck to create a more enjoyable space. Below are the steps to help you use our deck designer tool:
Get Building Plans & Suggested Material Lists
Design, Build & Enjoy
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Create an Account or LoginRegistering for an account will allow you to:
- Save your deck designs for later
- Download permit plans and material lists
- Get instant and exclusive access to all that Decks.com has to offer, including free downloadable deck plans and hundreds of decking building resources
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Design Your Custom DeckAfter you sign-in to your account you can:
- Have full access to the deck designer tool to create your dream deck
- Check out the help videos if you need more guidance
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Get Started with Your ProjectAfter you complete your digital deck designer:
- Share your designs with family members or contractors to help get your project started
- View material breakdowns
- Download plans to submit for permits
Deck Designer Frequently Asked Questions
If you're planning to build a deck, our custom deck builder and patio designer tool can help you get started. Here are some frequently asked questions about using our backyard deck designer.
FAQ’s for Decks.com
Question:
My design does not require railings, how do I remove the railings?
Answer:
Unfortunately, the program is not capable of removing the railing at this time.
Question:
How can I find my previously saved designs on your Deck Designer?
Answer:
To access your saved deck plans, log into your decks.com account.
- Go to the free deck designer.
- Click on Start Designing.
- Click on Menu in the top left corner.
- Click on List
- You should see a drop-down list of your saved plans. Click on the desired plan.
Question:
I would like my joists/decking to run in the opposite direction, can I do this?
Answer:
To make the joists run the opposite direction, move the deck to the side of the existing house.
Then you can drag to center the project. See photo below.
Question:
Is there a way to add stairs between levels?
Answer:
Yes, here are the instructions on adding stairs between landings. Adding Stairs with a Landing.pdf
Question:
How do I change the height of my deck?
Answer:
When you click on the deck, in the lower left corner, you will see a drop down menu that will allow you to change the height of your deck, see image below:
Question:
I do not want to use 2x10’s for my framing, is there a way to change the framing details?
Answer:
Unfortunately, there is no option to change the size of your joists and beams.
Question:
I am interested in using one of your Free Plans, but I would like a size that is not listed. Are you able to modify that for me?
Answer:
Unfortunately we are unable to modify the sizes of some of the free plans, but you can email support@decks.com and we will let you know if the plan can be recreated in your size using our Deck Design tool.
Question:
I have a Bay Window/Bump out at my house. Is there a way to create that in your program?
Answer:
Here are instructions on creating a “Bump Out” on your house: House with a Bump Out.pdf
Question:
Is there a way to create walls on 2 sides of the deck?
Answer:
Yes, here are instructions on creating walls on 2 sides of your deck: Creating an L Shaped House.pdf
Question:
I keep getting an error message when I try to print my permit plan, what is the issue?
Answer:
It appears that the tool is finding an error in the design that it cannot calculate.
If you go back into your design, it should be showing red exclamation (!) marks and if you hover over them, it should be telling you the issue that the tool is recognizing. If it’s not showing you those marks, you can send a screenshot to support@decks.com of what the design is and the error message it is giving you and we can try to resolve for you.
Question:
What browsers can I use the deck designer tool on?
Answer:
The deck designer tool is supported on the latest versions of Chrome (version 56+), Safari (version 8+), Firefox (version 51+), and Microsoft Edge Chromium (version 79+).
Question:
How do I find a local contractor to build my custom deck?
Answer:
There are a few ways to go about finding a custom deck builder in your area.
- One way is to ask around for recommendations from friends or family who may have had a custom deck built recently.
- Another way is to search online for custom deck contractors in your area
Once you find a contractor, you can contact them to get more information and get an estimate for your custom deck project.
Question:
Does it cost anything to use the deck designer?
Answer:
No, the deck designer is a free tool you can use to plan and design your dream deck. Our deck designer tool inspires and assists you in visualizing your perfect deck. After you complete your design you can save or print it for a reference.
With a little planning and creativity, you can design a deck that is uniquely yours. By using quality materials and thoughtfully selecting your accessories, you can create a space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
More Helpful Resources
Designing and building a custom deck can be a fun and rewarding experience. But with any home improvement project, it is important to always consider safety first. Please carefully read and accept the terms of use before we get started.
The Deck Designer and related plans are to be used as an educational guide and not to be considered a finalized deck building plan. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracy and compliance with your local building codes and site conditions.
Decks.com accepts no liability for any damages including personal injuries or property losses for the information published from the Decks.com Deck Designer. We cannot anticipate your entire field working conditions or the characteristics of your building materials and tools. Consider your skill level and use caution and good judgment when using this information. If you have questions or concerns, consult with your local building inspector, engineer, or architect. Always obtain the necessary building permits and follow local codes and guidelines.
Be sure to follow the deck building plans and instructions carefully. You are responsible for ensuring that the measurements and design are correct. Due to the size, shape, height, site location, anticipated use, and other factors you may be required to install additional structural support including knee bracing or bridging between joists that aren't included in the Decks.com Designer tool, related plans, or construction guide. You are responsible for verifying that the design and any modifications you make meet local building codes.
Decks.com accepts no liability or responsibility for your design, construction, or the use of any products supplied by Decks.com.
You assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the Decks.com Deck Designer.