How to Design A Deck

You've always dreamed of having your own backyard sanctuary, but getting started can be a challenge if you don't know what to expect. Wondering how to design a deck that checks all your boxes? Trex has helpful tools to assist you in designing the deck of your dreams with ease.

Before you start buying materials and building your deck, you need a plan. Follow these steps, and try using the Trex resources throughout, to learn how to design a deck that will become your ideal outdoor space.

Step 1. Find Your Deck Inspiration

To begin your journey into deck design, the first step is to figure out how you want to use your space, what it should look like, and what features you want to include in the design. Luckily, Trex has the inspiration you need to get started.

In the Trex Ideas section, you can explore different deck styles, get advice from design and building experts, and even read stories about real homeowners’ experiences to help define your vision for your outdoor space. Don't be afraid to get innovative and create a unique space — just keep in mind how your choices may impact your overall budget.

Step 2. Price & Budget Your Deck Project

Once you have an idea of what you want your outdoor space to look like, it’s time to start refining the details. The Trex Online Tools page has a collection of design and pricing tools to help you wherever you are in the process, including:

• A deck calculator to help you determine the overall costs of your decking materials
• Our decking comparison tool for finding the right Trex decking for your budget

With the help of these tools, you can carefully consider all of your options — from your choice of railing to your decking material — before deciding how much you want to invest in your home addition.

Step 3. Design Your Deck Project

As you design your deck, you'll discover a variety of options for your deck's size and shape, from a simple 6x10 porch to a beautiful 16x20 deck large enough to entertain friends and family. While the possibilities for your deck design are endless, the initial stages of your deck design process should focus on what you want from your deck:

• Do you want to entertain friends and family? 
• Will you use it year-round? 
• Do you want to add a grill, table, and deck planters? 
• What about stairs and railings?
• Do you want a multi-story deck? 

Note: No matter what deck you design, keep in mind considerations like safety, possible building permits, and making sure it's up to code.

But once you’ve taken all those factors into account, how will your design look in your actual space? With the Trex® AR Visualizer, you can compare colors, railings and deck sizes in real time in your backyard. Then, once you know the general look you want for you deck, you can use the Trex® Deck Designer tool to explore:

• 3D models of your potential deck
• List of materials to buy based on your design
• Downloadable blueprints to help you build your dream deck

Although the deck design and build process may take some time, it's exciting seeing your ideas come to fruition! Enjoy the process and bear these factors in mind as you design to create  a final product that fits your needs and meets your expectations.

Step 4. Choose Your Deck Color

Next step in designing your deck? Choosing a color. Trex decks come in many popular colors, so all you need to do is find a decking material that matches your preferences. For a cohesive look, you can match your new decking to your current home exterior or choose a contrasting color to make it stand out.

Trex decking is available in an array of hues, from dark gray and brown to deep red and sandy tones. The Color Selector tool makes it easy to compare colors to find the hue that’s right for you.

Step 5. Order a Decking Sample

Next, we recommend ordering a sample of the decking color(s) you are interested in. A decking sample lets you see how the color pairs with your home, feel the durability, and notice how the color shifts with the lighting throughout the day. Holding a sample in your hand allows you to see what the decking would be like in your home before you make your final purchase.

Step 6. Learn How to Build Your Deck

Want to build your new deck yourself? Enter Trex® Academy™. With answers to your most common questions, pro tips, and how-to videos, Trex Academy is there to help you every step of the way. It even has a quiz to help you determine if you have the skills, tools, and time to tackle a DIY decking project.

Step 7. Find a Deck Builder

If building a deck isn't your thing, Trex has a tool for that too. With the Find a TrexPro tool, you can search for a certified deck builder near you who specializes in composite decking with just your ZIP code.

Looking for a unique application or payment plan? The tool even allows you to search for builders with custom offerings such as curved decking and railing, deck building, and financing. 

Step 8. Add in Extra Touches & Deck Furniture

Now comes the fun part. Picking out all of the little extras to personalize the deck to your taste. Do you want to cover your deck? Consider a pergola or awning.

You'll need deck furniture if you plan to lounge around and entertain friends, family, and loved ones. Outdoor throw pillows and planters can beautify your space. 

At Trex, we want you to enjoy your deck for decades to come. It all starts with a great deck plan, which is a lot easier using the online tools available to you. Materials like Trex® composite decking offer a low-maintenance material that helps you keep your deck in great shape for many years.