Decks.com Deck Designer
Free, with limitsFree brand-neutral 3D deck designer with IRC-based plans
Free tier & pricing
Free to design and download plans plus a suggested material list after a free signup, but you cannot change the framing lumber sizes and the materials are a suggested list, not a guaranteed takeoff.
Last verified Jun 23, 2026. Report a change →
The short answer
Decks.com (owned by Trex) offers a free 3D designer that handles multi-level decks, stairs, octagons and angled shapes, with 2D and 3D views. You can download permit plans, build specs and a suggested material list, plus access 80-plus free deck plans based on the International Residential Code. A free account is needed to save, and you can't change joist or beam sizes.
The facts
- Pricing
- Paid · Free, with limits
- Free tier
- Yes
- Runs in browser
- Yes
- Platforms
- Web
- 2D / 3D
- Good 3D
- Learning curve
- Moderate
- Export formats
- PDF, PNG
The catch
- You must create an account to save or export.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Free and not locked to a single product brand
- Handles multi-level, stairs, octagons and angled shapes
- Permit plans and build specs based on the IRC
- 80+ free downloadable deck plans alongside the tool
Cons
- Free account required to save and download
- Cannot change joist or beam sizes
- Material list is 'suggested' and may omit bracing/blocking you need
- Disclaimer notes you must verify local code compliance yourself
Best for
DIYers who want code-referenced plans without committing to one brand.
Not for
Anyone needing custom framing sizes or a guaranteed material takeoff.
Alternatives to Decks.com Deck Designer
Trex Deck Designer
Free, brand-lockedCompletely free with no payment and no export paywall, but every board, railing and SKU it prices is a Trex composite product, so the shopping list only works if you actually buy Trex.
Lowe's Deck Designer
Free, brand-lockedFree with no purchase or account upgrade, but the material list and prices are pulled from Lowe's own inventory and the plans are not engineered or permit-ready.