The popular nexgen home and landscape design software reviews the multiple versions of their product to keep customers up-to-date on the upgraded features in the latest editions. Looking for a program that allows you to choose from different deck materials, incorporate outdoor patio lighting with LED or solar capabilities, or view your yard during different times of the day?

Aside from utilizing the various tips and tutorials present in home and patio design software to build your dream deck, you should also stay up to date on the latest outdoor styles and themes. For example, best patio design ideas from 2017 included purchasing wooden chairs to lounge by the garden, rustic clay pots filled with colorful flowers or herbs, and outdoor umbrellas to provide cool shade.

How do you know whether you should purchase an expensive professional patio and landscaping program with endless features or look for free design a deck software downloads that have similar capabilities but will not cost as much? The best way to make this decision is through researching the variety of products available to find summaries of their unique qualities and customer reviews. Most companies provide customer testimonials on their websites, however there are also a variety of blogs that provide brand specific assessments.

On the other hand, 2020 patio design trends include elegant tile floors under covered porches, outdoor kitchens for barbecuing and entertaining guests, and also beautiful rock gardens surrounding the edges of your deck. Similar to stormy weather, the intense rays of the sun can cause a pleasant afternoon to become hot and irritating. However, covered patio ideas such as large outdoor umbrellas, retractable awnings, or a vine covered pergola, can provide comfort and beauty.

Realtime Landscaping PLUS has one of the top 2020 patio design ideas and reviews for possessing these unique features, as well as its ease of use. While downloading free patio planner software provides you with enough tools to help you successfully build a deck, they often come with limited features compared to the more expensive versions. For example, the Total 3D Home, Landscape & Deck program can be purchased for as little as $40 and comes complete with some of the best pictures of patios, pre-created layouts for your garden and patio, a budget planner, and the ability to view your designs in different lighting.

While their free trial version provides great patio layout software, it does not have as many photos, layouts, and simple patio designs making it well worth the small amount of money the full version costs. Punch! also offers a high quality home and landscaping program that uses advanced technology to help your create a greener home incorporating patio designs with a fire pit, solar porch lights, or even energy efficient watering systems.