decks.com

What Decks.com Is

Decks.com is a home improvement resource site focused on building outdoor decks — the kind you put on the back of your house. It isn’t a social network, a design portfolio, or a marketplace in the usual sense. It’s a site built to help people plan, design, and build decks with tools and content you can use whether you’re a DIYer or hiring a contractor. (Decks.com)

At its core, Decks.com packs a few main features:

• A free deck designer tool that lets you sketch out and customize deck plans, then download or print them. (Decks.com)

• Downloadable deck plans and inspiration galleries so you can see real examples and get ideas. (Decks.com)

• How-to articles and guides covering everything from framing and railings to lighting and shade solutions. (Decks.com)

• Calculators to estimate materials and costs for your deck project. (Decks.com)

• Sections where you can look for where to buy materials and find a deck builder/contractor. (Decks.com)

It’s aimed at supporting every stage of a deck project, not selling products directly (though it partners with certain brands, e.g., Trex composite decking). (Decks.com)

That’s the practical gist — you go there if you’re planning an outdoor deck and want tools + plans + advice in one place.

What You Can Do on Decks.com

Breakdown of capabilities:

Deck Designer Tool

This is one of the site’s most useful parts. You can:

• Map out a custom deck layout in 2D/3D. (Decks.com)

• Add stairs, railings, choose materials, set dimensions. (Decks.com)

• Save or download your plans, and even print permit-ready drawings. (Decks.com)
  You do usually need to create a free account to use it fully. (Decks.com)

Downloadable Free Plans

If you’re not ready to design from scratch, you can choose from pre-made deck plans that include suggested materials and dimensions. (Decks.com)

Estimators & Calculators

There are tools to figure out what materials you might need and ballpark costs. These are rough estimates — users on forums have noted that actual total project costs (like framing, fasteners, concrete) can be higher than what the calculator shows. (Reddit)

Articles and Guidance

There’s a library of articles on topics such as multi-level deck design, lighting ideas, railing options, footings and framing best practices, and other aspects of deck construction. (Decks.com)

Inspiration

You can find photo galleries and examples to get inspiration for your own outdoor space. Development tips range from classic layouts to more creative multi-level ideas. (Decks.com)

Finding Materials & Builders

The site isn’t a direct marketplace, but it links to places to find decking materials and offers ways to connect with contractors in your area. (Decks.com)

Who It’s For

Decks.com isn’t for everyone. It’s practical and targeted:

• Homeowners who want to build or improve a deck.
  Handy if you’re thinking about DIY or just want to understand the project scope.

• DIY builders needing plans and material lists.
  The design tool and downloadable plans give you something tangible to work with.

• People considering hiring a pro but still want clear ideas and requirements.
  You can walk into conversations with contractors with a plan in hand.

It’s not a place to buy decking materials or tools directly like an e-commerce store would. It’s also not a social media forum or user community (though the brand has social channels where people share finished projects). (Facebook)

Pros and Cons (Practical View)

Pros

• Comprehensive planning tools (free deck designer, downloadable plans). (Decks.com)

• Content for beginners and intermediate DIYers — step-by-step articles and inspiration boards. (Decks.com)

• Estimators to rough out costs and materials. (Decks.com)

• Free to use in many parts. (Decks.com)

Cons / Caveats

• Tools are aids, not professional blueprints. You’ll still need real building permits and local code compliance. (Decks.com)

• Cost calculators don’t always capture everything you’ll spend. (Reddit)

• Some advanced features require you to sign up/log in. (Decks.com)

Quick Example of What You’d Do There

Say you want a multi-level deck with an outdoor dining space and a built-in fire pit:

1. Open the deck designer tool and choose overall footprint. (Decks.com)

2. Layout the main level for dining and seating. (Decks.com)

3. Add a secondary level with railings and stairs. (Decks.com)

4. Choose materials (e.g., composite decking boards). (Decks.com)

5. Export a plan with material list. (Decks.com)

6. Use the site’s calculators to estimate material costs. (Decks.com)

7. Bring those plans to a contractor or local building inspector for review.

Key Takeaways

• Decks.com is a deck-building resource hub, not a random miscellaneous site. (Decks.com)

• It offers design tools, plans, calculators, and how-to guides for homeowners building decks. (Decks.com)

• Tools are practical and free in many cases, but not a substitute for professional plans or code reviews. (Decks.com)

• The content is focused on making deck planning and DIY accessible. (Decks.com)

FAQ

Is Decks.com a free site?
Mostly yes. Many tools and plans are free, though you may need a free account for some features. (Decks.com)

Can I use Decks.com plans for building permits?
You can download plans, but local permit requirements vary — you’ll often still need professional review to meet codes. (Decks.com)

Does it sell decking materials?
Not directly. It links to product sponsors and helps you find where to buy materials. (Decks.com)

Is it good for first-time builders?
Yes — it’s geared toward DIYers and people planning their first outdoor deck project. (Decks.com)

Is the cost estimator accurate?
It gives rough numbers for decking boards, but many users find that actual total project costs can be higher once framing and extras are included. (Reddit)