In my experience with various deck design software out there, I’ve found that many either lack the necessary features or have an overwhelming learning curve. It’s frustrating when you can’t design or build a deck both efficiently and creatively.
But after spending considerable time testing, I’ve pinpointed the best deck design software. This way, you won’t have to squander your money on substandard tools for your deck and home plans.
Reviews of the Best Deck Design Software
1. AutoCAD
AutoCAD is one of the most renowned software out there for design purposes, and that extends to deck design as well. It’s a design software that helps users improve over time by saving past drawings in an archive to compare to your newer imaginations.
AutoCAD is easily accessible on any device including your mobile, although our team does feel that a bigger screen allows for more precision.
You will no longer need to send designs through email the old-fashioned way as AutoCAD permits shared viewing and saving of your deck projects on your device or directly on the web.
What We Like
- The software is easily accessible at any time and from any location.
- Compatibility is smooth across various devices.
- Sharing deck projects is straightforward and user-friendly.
- It offers both 2D and 3D design capabilities.
- The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.
- There are features that enhance overall performance.
- Cloud storage options are available, which I find very convenient.
- It allows for purging and redesigning projects with ease.
- The enhanced DWG software is a significant addition.
- They offer a free online tryout, which I always appreciate.
- Customer service on the website is helpful and responsive.
What We Don’t Like
- One downside is that the program can feel somewhat costly.
- Unfortunately, there is no perpetual license available, which might be a limitation for some.
2. SketchUp Pro
SketchUp stands out as a stellar landscaping/design tool. I’ve personally found it invaluable for crafting detailed deck designs. However, it’s worth noting that SketchUp isn’t solely a deck design software with landscaping features. It’s actually a comprehensive woodwork design system.
SketchUp Pro designer has a robust and unique set of (landscaping) features like lighting effects and 3D/2D representations of your drawings. Additionally, you can use it to create an animated video and alter things like design textures.
The deck planning tool has a free tryout version not dissimilar to Trex and you could upgrade to the pro/paid version. In the paid SketchUp version, you’ll get unrestricted access to everything SketchUp has to offer.
What I Like
- This tool is well-equipped with features tailored for professional deck builders like myself.
- With SketchUp, I can create edited video clips of my designs effortlessly.
- It's one of the more intuitive design software I've encountered, making it easy to pick up and use.
- The lighting effects genuinely enhance the final output.
- The availability of several plugins extends the design capabilities.
- One of the perks of SketchUp Pro is that it doesn't overburden my computer during usage.
What I Don’t Like
- The pricing options for SketchUp might feel a tad steep for those pursuing it as a hobby.
- Crafting intricate designs can demand a deeper understanding and knowledge base.
3. Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a well-optimized software for integrated design. It combines the functions of CAD, CAM, PCB and CAE into a consolidated platform to make your work easier. With all it has to offer, it’s no wonder engineers of all industries and machinists turn to Fusion 360.
With a name like Fusion 360, you can be sure you get access to diverse 3D design options such as freeform modeling, surface modeling, direct modeling and more.
The cost of Fusion 360 is also a more enticing one just in case my other top choices are a little out of your budget. You can choose to pay per month or per year.
What I Like
- It's versatile enough to be beneficial across multiple industries.
- The 360 3D design capability is truly top-notch.
- I appreciate the unified PCB design approach.
- Everything's integrated into a single platform, which is a boon for seamless design work.
- Cloud management makes it easy to access projects from anywhere.
- The design simulations are impressively accurate.
- Its realistic rendering truly brings designs to life.
- The availability of extensions broadens its functionality.
- Given its features, the pricing is reasonable.
- I always appreciate when there's a free trial option to test the waters.
- Their website support has been notably responsive.
What I Don’t Like
- It might not be the best pick for those just starting out in the field.
- Import speeds from the Cloud can sometimes lag a bit.
4. Decks.com
This design software is another great place to start your landscaping deck design escapades. Decks.com provides different shapes that help you to create the overall layout of your decking plan.
From my perspective, one standout feature is its ability to offer a finely-tuned unique side view of your online plan whenever it’s required. I’ve always emphasized how crucial this is, especially when adjusting deck height, railing height, or planning the footing depth.
Besides all these, Decks.com helps to take the guessing game out of creating decks. The software does so by offering premade plans and materials that you can choose from. Among other options, there are pool deck plans, high & low elevation decks, landscaping, etc.
What I Like
- I've found the unique side view extremely helpful for making critical adjustments.
- The software's archive of articles, packed with design tips and tricks, has often come in handy for me.
- Their array of premade plans simplifies the design process, especially when envisioning a home layout.
- It allows you to view a basic 3D rendering of your decking plan.
- Even for those less experienced in deck design, the user interface is quite intuitive.
- Its Punch-like drag and drop design approach streamlines the deck designing process, making it both quick and efficient.
What I Don’t Like
- The software can lag a bit when grappling with intricate home deck plans.
- Crafting a custom deck design for a home can be slightly more challenging than I'd prefer.
5. SmartDraw
Unlike some others on my list, the SmartDraw landscaping/deck design software isn’t exactly free. For this reason, I’d like to note that it might be better suited for professional deck builders who earn from their craft.
Regardless, if you choose to purchase SmartDraw, you’ll get intuitive Punch-like drag and drop design functions. While testing the product, I found that this Punch-like drag and drop system sped up work significantly.
You can also include special graphics for elevation posts, hot tubs, furniture, etc. One of the most impressive features of Smartdraw is the landscaping package. It allows you to simply get an entire backyard design instead of just a deck prototype.
What I Like
- I'm particularly fond of the special graphics that allow for the addition of various elements.
- The landscape package option genuinely broadens the design possibilities.
- The Punch-like drag and drop design approach resonates with my design style, making the process fluid.
- There's a wealth of templates available, which offers a good starting point.
- I have peace of mind using their online cloud-based software; it ensures the safety of my ongoing work.
- One noticeable advantage is that it doesn’t overburden my device during the design process.
What I Don’t Like
- I often find myself wishing for a few more right-click options.
- Some of the supplementary images could be of a higher quality.
6. Idea Spectrum
Similar to some others within our list, Idea Spectrum is a premium/paid design software. Idea Spectrum allows you to create designs for landscapes, pools, gardens, and decks. It has numerous high-quality graphics. When included in your design, they increase realism.
One aspect of the Idea Spectrum software that caught my attention, especially after reviewing its website, is its tiered pricing system. They offer three distinct levels: Plus, Pro, and Architect. This setup ensures that you don’t overspend on features that might not be relevant or comprehensible to your needs.
Some of the features you’ll get include 3D landscape design, water features, and the ability to create CAD drawings.
What I Like
- One of the highlights for me is their excellent customer support, easily reachable via their website.
- I appreciate their fair pricing system; it lets you invest based on your specific needs.
- Their 3D landscape designs add a touch of realism that enhances the final output.
- The integration of Computer Assisted Design drawings is a commendable feature.
- The design options are straightforward and don't demand exhaustive research on my part.
- I like the fact that deck projects can be printed directly.
What I Don’t Like
- I've noticed its availability is a bit restricted across different platforms.
- Getting a handle on its terrain tool was a tad perplexing.
7. Big Hammer Deck Designer
This is another free designer software for home deck designing and floating deck building. It is simple enough to be used virtually by anyone, including beginners. Despite being relatively unknown, the product offers great design options like designing in 3D.
You can easily view your finished design in three dimensions. The best part is that Big Hammer Deck Designer allows you to spin the design round for some viewing flexibility. If you wish, you could add foliage to increase the realism.
It has over 70 different templates that you can choose from when you need ideas as an architect. These give you a great starting point to design.
What I Like
- Designing projects in 3D gives me a much clearer perspective of the end result.
- I've found the spin-around feature particularly useful, offering fantastic views of completed designs.
- Adding foliage is a nice touch that I use often to enhance realism.
- With over 70 templates at hand, it offers a great starting point for various projects.
- It is commendably budget-friendly, making it accessible even for hobbyists.
- The user interface is beginner-friendly, something I believe is key for those just starting out.
What I Don’t Like
- One limitation is its availability across various platforms, which is somewhat restrictive.
- It’s worth noting that it could exert some strain on your system during operation.
Deck Design Software Buyer’s Guide
So far, I’ve delved into seven of the top deck design software options, both free and paid, that I genuinely believe stand out. But remember, even if you’re a seasoned architect like me, it’s essential to keep an eye out for specific features to ensure you’re making the most informed purchase decision.
Even if some of the deck design tool choices are free, you don’t want to pick up a designer that will completely waste your time.
Skill Level
The deck designer software tools on my list vary in skill requirements. Some are designed for professional deck designers and chief architects in the woodworking industry, while others are tailored for home deck designers with several years of experience.
However, if you’re still at the level of a hobbyist, you might want to tone your ambitions down a bit. Otherwise, you might end up getting a decking design software that’s well above your level.
A great way to identify design software that are too advanced is with their cost. This isn’t always the case for paid deck designer software with a materials list. But, if the paid tool seems a bit too expensive, it isn’t for an amateur home deck designer.
2D or 3D Modeling
If you’re familiar with design, you’ll know the differences [1] that exist between 2D and 3D designs and how they affect design or any animated video creation. For 2D designs, you can get the basic idea of your deck. Alongside that, it’s easy to make two-dimensional drawings.
However, they have their limitations when you get started on home deck prototypes. For example, when you draw a 2D square, all you get is a square. This prevents you from getting the full picture of what the deck will look like in your home or how it will appear when you paint a trex or composite deck.
With 3D drawings and models or a 3D video, the possibilities are higher. These program abilities provide a 360-degree view through which any chief architect can see their home deck project properly. This means that you’ll be able to see every dent as well as every angle required.
(If you want another realistic design software program, check this Sketchlist 3D review next!)
Platform Availability
Based on my experience, deck designer software varies in its platform offerings. I emphasize this because cloud-based software, in particular, provides the convenience of effortlessly storing any video or design material you produce.
As a chief architect, you’re not likely to lose your work, progress, or information so easily. Additionally, you wouldn’t have to worry about updates or the designer software taking too much space on your computer.
However, not all software/program offer cloud storage. So, before purchasing your software/program to design a deck, ensure that it is available on your preferred device. Even with a materials list, you’ll not be able to design the deck of your choice with the program.
Price
After making every other consideration, you should consider how much the online software/program will cost you. You can’t buy a design program if you cannot afford to pay or subscribe to it.
Getting the cheapest thing you see in the market might seem like the best option. This should even be easy, seeing as there are numerous free software. However, if it’s a completely free software/deck builder program, it might not have all the features a pro might want to see in a great design tool, which is often a paid one.
Therefore, consider the price/cost in relation to the value it offers. For example, if one option costs a hundred with five features and another costs ninety with three features, look at the one with the most amount of use to you.
For example, one with an animated video creation option or a drag and drop function like Punch!
The best part is that most of these programs will have a free trial version like the Trex design software. This enables you to test them out and decide if you want to make the financial commitment as a chief architect.
FAQ
What is the best free deck design software?
The best free deck design software is AutoCAD. This design tool has 3D capabilities with multiple other options to add realism to your deck project. It also offers intuitive design tools that are easy to use and understand.
My Top Pick For a Deck Design Software: AutoCAD
My top pick for best design software for decks goes to AutoCAD. This is no surprise considering I have been using it for years for personal and commercial projects.
Not only do you get access to both 3D and 2D visualizations, AutoCAD also supports different types of modeling, export formats, and useful tools. However, nothing beats the user friendly interface that is easy to understand and there’s even a free trial available.
If you are a furniture designer, here are the best furniture software you can use when designing. Read next!
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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