Nothing beats the comfort and relaxation of having an outdoor space with a deck at home where you can enjoy nature’s beauty when it’s breezy and sunny. However, building a deck and outdoor living space requires more than power tools and materials alone. But first, you need to do the outdoor living and deck design.
With the best 3D architectural rendering services and software, it’s now possible to create custom space layouts and visualize your dream outdoor oasis with the help of 3D models. The ideal 3D rendering software and service should be intuitive and offer many features. There shouldn’t be any complex processes that can bog you down but with enough room for outdoor deck design customization. Here are some recommendations you can consider.
AutoCAD design software
AutoCAD is the design software that takes 3D and 2D modeling to a new level. It is comprehensive paid software that is a favorite among construction professionals, engineers, and architects alike, and it goes beyond designing decks and outdoor living areas. AutoCAD provides an extensive selection of design features, such as 3D mapping and specialized architecture toolsets to streamline the entire process. The software is Mac and Windows systems compatible, allowing users to access it through mobile apps or the web.
Thanks to its subscription price, AutoCAD is a better option for those who want to use its professional-grade tools to the fullest. AutoCAD is more expensive than other software, not to mention that its learning curve is also steeper. But the available free trial gives DIYers a chance to try the program.
TimberTech Deck Design Tool by AZEK
Compatible with some tablet browsers and desktop browsers, AZEK’s TimberTech Deck Design Tool is a feature-rich and accessible option. Users can use the free online account to create custom decks, save the designs for later, download the materials list, and share their deck designs with contractors, friends, and family members. Its selection of features covers all the basic steps in deck planning, from the initial concept to building preparation.
Users can also select and adjust several free deck templates or design custom decks from the ground up. Presentation, 2D, and 3D view options also make it easier to visualize the final result. The user-friendly interface was created with homeowners in mind. Detailed 3D renderings and clear graphics can give you an idea of how the deck will look after completion.
decks.com Deck Designer software
Deck designers that are browser-enabled are by far the most user-friendly option to consider for your next outdoor living and deck design projects. Decks.com only requires an internet connection and a web browser with no fees or downloads required. While in-browser designers usually have limited features compared to desktop programs, this service includes all the essential features for planning custom decks, including 3D and 2D models.
All you have to do is create your free account and proceed with your plan. Decks.com has an easy-to-use interface developed for novice and first-time designers. You can choose from more than 100 deck plans for free or design your deck using the drag-and-drop controls. The site also offers cost calculators and various instructional articles to guide building and buying.
Do-It-Yourself Deck Designer by Home Depot
The Do-It-Yourself Deck Designer website by Home Depot offers novice designers an approachable resource. Users need to download the Windows-compatible software for free and run this on a desktop computer connected to the internet.
The easy-to-use program allows users to create custom layouts or select from professionally made templates. A Home Visualization option lets users view the finished deck design in 3D superimposed on their property’s uploaded image. The program also allows the creation of printable lists of all essential items down to the smallest ones.
Realtime Landscaping Plus by Idea Spectrum
DIY deck engineers only need to pay for a single upfront cost to use this deck planning desktop software which also happens to come in handy for other future projects. The software sets itself apart from other subscription programs because it doesn’t have a monthly fee but lets you install it on two computers simultaneously. The program is compatible with Windows and made explicitly for landscape design, allowing users to plan various structural and garden designs.
Architect, Pro, and plus versions each have their price tag with different features included. This particular software is most suitable for those who want to try planning and designing their decks for the first time. It lets users create 3D multistory and single-deck plans, patio, landscape, shed, pool, and carport designs.
Lowe’s Deck Designer
The easy and free in-browser deck designer by Lowe is an ideal option for newbie designers. Like most browser programs, the website of Lowe’s gives users access to both their mobile and desktop devices. Users can select from several sample templates or draw their deck from the ground up. The program also states if the materials required are available at the nearest branch of Lowe’s.
The beginner-friendly interface of the deck designer includes drag-and-drop and drawing tools. The presentation, 3D, and 2D viewing options can give you a glimpse of how the deck will look upon completion. Users can make an account where they can save their designs that they can use later. Product lists and sharing options also allow sourcing building materials and collaborating with others.
Punch! Landscape Design Software
This software brings several desktop programs perfect for landscaping design to Mac and Windows computers. Its software options, including Architectural Series and Essentials, come with deck designing capabilities suitable for different needs and budgets. This paid desktop program comes at a one-time cost and is ideal for seasoned and novice designers. The software helps not only with decks but also with landscaping designs. Even amateurs can make the most of the drag-and-drop features to develop 3D or 2D plans for decks, landscapes, fences, pathways, and pools.
SketchUp Pro
SketchUp Pro is a convenient software option for outdoor living & deck design projects and is integrated with browser and desktop versions. The 3D modeling software can help you develop stunningly detailed, simple, and advanced landscapes. The program goes beyond deck design alone and offers a selection of features, such as the choice to design an outdoor kitchen, landscape a brand-new garden, or create an entire outdoor space.
Regarding deck design, the program can provide 3D and 2D views and various realistic features that can be integrated into the design, including an extensive library of outdoor items and lighting effects. SketchUp Pro can also integrate with various platforms. The web and desktop versions include infinite cloud storage for keeping and sharing projects no matter where you are. Virtual reality or VR modeling functions on several VR headsets as well. A free trial is available to give users an idea of what the comprehensive software can offer before they sign up for a paid monthly subscription.
SmartDraw
SmartDraw’s powerful web-based drawing software allows designers, from professionals to DIYers, to develop various 2D graphics. This subscription-based program is well-loved among professionals such as architects and contractors to create detailed deck designs and infographics. With a user-friendly interface, the online floor plan creator allows seamless deck planning.
It also lets users create plans from scratch or customize existing templates. The section provides many floor plan options, including garden plans, landscape designs, and even indoor floor plans. SmartDraw has collaboration in mind and integrates with different online tools, including Google Workspace apps and Microsoft Office programs, to easily share designs.
Trex AR Visualizer Mobile App
This app brings inspiration for deck building directly on smartphones. With its iOS compatibility, the free app provides basic mobile design features to develop custom decks no matter where you are. The decking materials company Trex developed the app, meaning it only provides Trex railing and decking options. Trex options work great for people who plan to use the brand.
But if not, the app’s 3D renderings can still be helpful for DIYers and allow them to envision their new deck. Thanks to this app, users can also view the entire decking portfolio of Trex, calculate the design’s square footage, develop basic shapes, and tinker with different railings and deck colors. The program also has an in-app store locator and sample ordering.
How Cad Crowd can help
The best 3D rendering companies and software for outdoor living and deck design projects can help you ensure the success of your efforts. Cad Crowd is a platform that will help you find the right professionals to help you transform your outdoor living spaces and bring your clients’ dream decks to life so they will continue coming back for more projects with your company.
