Softwares can guide you in the initial stages of planning the perfect deck of your house. Such programs offer ideas suitable for your type of home.

Deck-designing programs deal with engineering diagrams and architectural aspects. It draws a model of your design. These programs are very user-friendly even to beginners.

Prices vary relative to the features offered. The basic DIY (Do It Yourself) software averages for $30. With additional features, the price can go higher at $50-$250. The commercial grade for professionals is the most expensive averaging at $1,000.

Bear in mind that these softwares are not 100% accurate, but they help draw a picture of the deck you imagine in your mind. Choose the right software for you. Buying the professional softwares are best for commercial use and might take some time before you get your capital/investment back. If you intend the software for personal use, to be used once or twice, consider buying the less expensive ones.

Deck-design software applications can be classified in two. The entry level and mid level.

Entry Level

The entry level is generally cheaper, hence has more restrictions compared to a full CAD application. This is however the more practical choice especially for non-professionals.

Instant Deck Design is an entry level software for basic deck-building that sells for below $30. It runs both in 2D and 3D environment. The program is based on the award-winning DesignCAD™ 15 platform.

Choose from its 50 pre-drawn designs for deck with features on full customization. Customize your beam spacing, material type, or decking gaps. It includes modes with full visualization for easy viewing of the actual size and functions of the deck. It has a material specification sheet and functions for shopping list.

Mid Level

These software programs are broader in scope and they integrate the whole house and landscape design package. The price ranges from $50 to $250.

Punch Software is the leader mid-level deck-building software. It is user-friendly and a powerful CAD-like building software. More than just deck-building, it can help you visualize a comprehensive home and landscape.

Deckorators is a virtual deck-design software that gives an option of viewing and printing 3D designs. This free virtual deck designer provides hundreds of options in mixing and matching materials. It has a lot of colors to explore with and has 4 baluster styles to choose from.

Design your deck to fit your lifestyle and compliment the architecture of your house. It is further important to note the sturdiness of your structure.

Make sure your design is compliant to local laws on zoning. Some laws have height and size restrictions and ongoing constructions. Check if with the local government if written approvals and building permits are required in constructions.