Start planning your dream deck
Every beautiful deck begins with a plan. We’re here to help you make one.
Our guide makes planning easy
Planning your deck should be fun and exciting; but with so many choices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Our guide and checklist will walk you through the steps to help you make your dream deck a reality.
Get your deck in 5 easy steps
We’ll help you imagine, design, and plan — and stay organized along the way.
Step 1: Start with your vision
The first thing to think about is how you’ll use your outdoor space. Do you want a quiet place to hang out, or plan to host large gatherings? Need a place for kids to play? Explore our Inspiration Gallery for ideas.
Step 2: Plan your budget
There are a lot of factors that can impact the total cost of your deck, and your contractor can give you a ballpark estimate based on your region and the square footage of your project. To get a better understanding of how those costs typically break out, check out our Decking Cost Calculator.
Step 3: Explore design options
From colors and railing style to board widths and patterns, these details will help you create a deck design that’s uniquely yours. This is your most important step — with lots of opportunities to customize — so don’t rush it.
Choose your deck color
From rich woodland browns and silvery grays to sunny, sandy tans, choosing a color is the biggest design decision you’ll make. Be sure to consider your lifestyle and budget while fine tuning your overall aesthetic.
Learn about decking materials
When it comes to material selection, it’s important to think about how much time you’re willing to invest in upkeep. So, if you don’t want to deal with the maintenance of a wood deck, your next choice is: Advanced PVC or Composite?
Find your rail style
Deck designs might start with the board color, but railing will define your look — whether it’s traditional, contemporary, or somewhere in between. If your deck requires railing, it’s an important design element to factor into your planning.
Step 4: Choose a contractor
Depending on where you live, contractors can book up quickly during deck-building season — so it’s important to find the best fit for your project and book them as soon as possible. For tips on preparing for your contractor meeting, download our deck planning guide below.
Step 5: Build your deck
Your planning is done and it’s time to let your contractor get to work — so, sit back, relax, and watch your deck come to life. This is a great time to shop for furniture, décor, and more to customize your outdoor space — or even plan an amazing deck-warming party.
Download the Deck Planning Guide & Checklist
Submit the form below to access the download link. We’ll also send the link to your email.
Have questions? We can help.
We’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions, call 1.877.275.2935 or send us a message and we’ll connect you with a decking expert.
Take the next step
Order free samples
Compare colors, finishes, and materials, and see the real wood aesthetics of TimberTech Decking in your outdoor space.
Deck Building Resource Center
Find everything you need to know about building a TimberTech deck with guides, how-tos, and tips — all developed by our installation experts.
Why TimberTech
We’re #1 in premium decking. Why? Unparalleled performance, innovative technology, premium aesthetics — and that’s just the start.