A gazebo is a freestanding, roofed garden pavilion with usually open sides and a pointed roof, often hexagonal or octagonal in shape. It provides shade and a sheltered seating spot in the middle of the garden and is closely related to the pergola and the summerhouse.
Shape and construction
A gazebo generally consists of several posts that support a roof structure. The sides usually remain open, so the pavilion stays airy and the view of the garden is preserved. Sometimes low balustrades, lattice work or curtains are added for more shelter.
The typical build-up consists of:
- Foundation or pad footings — concrete footings or ground anchors keep the posts stable and dry
- Posts — usually six or eight uprights that carry the roof
- Ring beam — connects the posts at the top and supports the roof
- Roof structure — rafters or purlins running to a central point, forming the characteristic pointed roof
- Roof covering — shingles, thatch, tiles or polycarbonate
Materials
Gazebos are often built from timber, such as pressure-treated spruce or the more durable Douglas fir or larch. Metal models and kits are also available. For the roof covering, you can choose bitumen shingles, roof tiles or clear polycarbonate depending on the atmosphere you want.
DIY and application
A gazebo is a popular DIY project. With a well-thought-out building plan, the hexagonal or octagonal corners and the pointed roof can be made yourself. A level, solid foundation is important, as is setting the posts square and plumb. Once erected, the gazebo serves as a covered terrace, dining spot or quiet retreat in the garden, and often becomes an eye-catcher.
Related terms
- Pergola
- Foundation
- Gutter
- Garden pavilion
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