A wooden gazebo has a classic, natural look that may complement your garden area.
When it comes to adding instant charm to your yard or garden, few options can top a gazebo. Its traditional octagonal shape and wooden finish are often associated with cottage-style gardens, but there are a variety of designs that employ different shapes and materials for pairing with other landscapes. If you are thinking about adding a gazebo to your backyard or garden, keep some basic tips in mind to ensure that you are prepared for the project and get the most out of your finished structure. Does this Spark an idea?
Select the Material
When you think of a gazebo, the image that comes to mind may be of a wooden structure. In many cases, gazebos are made from wood, with cedar and redwood being two of the more common building materials because of durability and resistance to weather conditions. Pressure treated lumber is a budget-friendly alternative. However, there are other materials that can be used to construct an attractive gazebo. For a low cost, low maintenance option, consider a vinyl gazebo. Opt for wrought iron if you prefer a more ornate look. Stone and reinforced concrete are other options as well.
Decide on Construction
In addition to choosing what materials you want to use to build your gazebo, you must decide exactly how you are going to go about the construction. There are several options that you may consider, depending on your preferences and carpentry skills. If you are a fan of do-it-yourself projects, you can build a gazebo from a set of purchased plans. A gazebo kit, which provides detailed instructions and construction materials, is an ideal option if you like the idea of building your own structure but prefer a method that takes the hassle out of planning it yourself. If you are not confident in your woodworking skills, however, you can hire a contractor to follow the plans or assemble the kit. You can also commission a landscape architect to create an original design and have your gazebo built for you, but this is typically the most costly option.
Find the Right Spot
Finding the right location for your gazebo is another important step in the planning process. Gazebos are traditionally placed in a garden, so you may want to place your structure in the middle of your garden where you can enjoy the flowers and greenery as you sit inside. If you have commissioned an original design for your gazebo and want to showcase it, the center of your yard may be the best spot for it. Building it beside a lake, pond or other water feature is an ideal option as well. Consider how far from your home you want to place the gazebo, as well as areas in your yard that might provide particularly attractive views for the structure.
Consider Accessories
While you may be thinking about adding benches or chairs to the interior of your gazebo, there are many accessories beyond furniture that you may want to consider. Wiring your gazebo enables you to install interior lights that allow for night time use of the space, as well as exterior lights that can highlight your structure from a distance when the sun goes down. You can also use electricity to power a blender so you can add a bar to the interior. A speaker system may be plugged into a wired gazebo as well. If you are concerned about privacy, add screens or panels to the sides of the gazebo to partially block the interior from view. Screens have the added benefit of blocking insects as well.
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