Buying a Gazebo Kit
Do you love your backyard but keep thinking it’s missing something? A gazebo kit might be the answer.
A gazebo kit allows you to build a gazebo yourself without cutting and measuring lumber or picking out the right hardware. Every piece comes together in a tidy box, ready to assemble. With the right gazebo kit, soon you and your guests will be enjoying the outdoors, protected from the rain and sun.
What is a gazebo?
A gazebo is a covered outdoor structure open on all sides. A gazebo differs from a pergola in one important way: A gazebo has a roof for full protection from the elements, while a pergola is slatted, offering only partial coverage.
A pergola is usually installed over a garden, pathway or patio. A gazebo is a more substantial freestanding element, and a gathering destination that can be located anywhere in your yard.
What to look for in a gazebo kit
Before you choose a gazebo kit, consider the size, your budget and how much work you’re willing to dedicate to assembling it.
- Size: Gazebo kits come in all shapes and sizes, and the right choice for you will depend on the size of your yard and how you intend to use the gazebo. An 8-foot x 8-foot gazebo will fit well in most small- and medium-size backyards, and is a perfect intimate gathering spot or a beautiful backdrop for an outdoor wedding. If you have a larger backyard, you can go up to a 10-foot x 10-foot gazebo, which is a great size to set up with outdoor furniture or a fire pit. A 12-foot x 12-foot gazebo can easily accommodate outdoor parties, a large sitting area or even a hot tub.
- Budget: You’ll find a wide range of prices. A semi-permanent structure can cost as little as $300 to $400, while an extra-large permanent gazebo kit can run well over $10,000. On average, plan on spending $3,000 to $5,000 on a eight-foot or 10-foot gazebo made from steel, vinyl or lumber. Custom gazebo kits will be pricier than standard kits, with each additional element — screens, benches or other accessories — adding to your cost. Remember: Money spent on the kit will be offset by labor cost savings because you’re assembling it yourself!
- Assembly time: That, of course, depends on how big it is. Most gazebo kit retailers say to plan on five to 10 hours of labor. With the help of a friend, that gazebo can probably be finished in a weekend. The exception is a semi-permanent gazebo, which usually features a fabric top with steel posts. That can be a one-person job and shouldn’t take more than an hour or two to set up. Another thing to consider when estimating your project time is the site preparation. You’ll need a hard, compact base to support your gazebo. A concrete pad, compacted gravel or patio blocks will do the trick.
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