Online Deck Designer: No Download, No CAD

From a browser to a plan you can discuss

Use a phone or computer

Open PaperPlan in a modern browser. No app installation or CAD experience is needed to create a visual concept.

Start with your own site

Use a photo with the house, door and proposed deck area visible so the design conversation has context.

Keep options together

Save renders in a project and compare material directions before asking a contractor to measure and quote.

One project, one payment

The US$19 Deck Ideas Pack includes three concepts and two refinements, clean downloads and before-and-after comparison. Generation starts after payment.

How it works

1. Open a project. Upload a clear photo from your phone or computer; you sign in when you buy the pack. Rendering needs an internet connection.
2. Define the concept. Describe where the deck should go and what matters to you, then choose a decking material.
3. Purchase and compare. Buy your US$19 pack, then compare the concept with your original photo. Check doors, stairs and circulation before refining it.
4. Save and share. Keep the renders in your project and download clean images or the before-and-after comparison to share with family or a builder.

What you can plan with an online deck designer

Use this online deck designer for visual planning: how the deck sits against your house, the material palette and the overall direction. A photo concept gives a builder a starting point for the measured design.

Prepare the photo and a short brief

Photograph the whole build area in daylight, including the doors, ground and surrounding structures. Decide whether you want dining space, a lounge area or both. Keep the first concept simple so you can assess the layout.

Compare a small number of options

Compare your three concepts, then use two refinements to develop a favorite. Changing one material or color keeps the comparison useful. Technical failures do not consume your allowance.

Save the concept for the next conversation

A saved project keeps the photo and renders together, and projects stay private. Download the concept or the before-and-after image when you are ready to show it to someone. Contractor Pro also supports branded proposal export.

Turn the concept into a buildable design

Have a builder verify dimensions, access, deck height, stairs, railing, framing and footings. This visual workflow does not produce dimensioned CAD drawings, a guaranteed material takeoff or permit approval.

Common questions

Is the online deck designer free?

No. The Deck Ideas Pack costs US$19 once for one backyard project: three concepts and two refinements, clean downloads and before-and-after comparison. You can upload your photo before paying; generation starts after purchase.

Do I need to download software?

No. Use a modern browser on your phone or computer. Uploading photos, generating renders and sharing projects require an internet connection.

Can I save and share my deck designs?

Yes. Signed-in projects keep your renders, and you can download clean images or a before-and-after comparison to share with family or a builder. Projects stay private; you choose what to download and share.

Will it create dimensioned plans or a permit set?

This photo-based workflow creates visual concepts. Ask a qualified builder or designer for measured drawings, structural specifications and the documents your permit office requires.

What should I measure before getting a quote?

Record the proposed width and depth, door height above grade, stair access and any obstacles. Have the contractor verify the measurements and local requirements before ordering materials.