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.

Know the free allowance

Sign-in includes 2 lifetime renders with a PaperPlan watermark. Some materials and proposal export require Pro.

How it works

1. Open a project. Sign in and upload a clear photo from your phone or computer. Rendering needs an internet connection.
2. Define the concept. Choose a decking material and mark the area where you want the deck.
3. Review the render. Compare the concept with your original photo. Check doors, stairs and circulation before refining it.
4. Save and share. Keep the render in your project or publish a view-only link for a homeowner or 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

Try one material and review the result before spending another render. For the two free renders, changing one material or color gives a useful comparison. Each generation counts toward your plan allowance.

Save the concept for the next conversation

A saved project keeps the photo and renders together. Publish a project link when you are ready to show it to someone; anyone with that link can view it. 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?

You get 2 lifetime renders after sign-in. Free renders carry a PaperPlan watermark; some materials and proposal export require Pro. The free allowance does not reset each month.

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 retain your renders. You can publish a project link for people to view without an account, so share that link only when you are ready for others to see the project.

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.