Gazebos are popular structures used in many gardens throughout the world. They add shelter and a hint of beauty to the area, and can be used for a number of things.
One question that many people have, however, is about where gazebos should go. Should these structures be built on lawns, or can they be constructed on a raised deck?
The short answer? Gazebos can be put on a raised deck! If you want to find out more and how you should do it, just keep reading.
What Is A Gazebo?
Gazebos are typically freestanding pavilion structures. They can be turret-shaped or octagonal, but shapes may vary.
They come in different sizes, and can be used for many things, though they are especially popular for special occasions.
There is often some confusion about gazebos, pavilions, and pergolas. To clear that up, let’s take a quick look at the differences between these structures:
- Gazebo – typically a self-contained structure that offers full protection from the sun
- Pavilion – typically a rectangular structure that offers full protection from the sun for seating below
- Pergola – allows sun to shine through the slatted roof but offers some shade
Why Would You Want To Install A Gazebo On A Raised Deck?
You might want to install a gazebo on a raised deck because that area gets used for events or other activities! It would only make sense to have something that is accommodating in the area, and gazebos are perfect for that.
Not only that, but by installing a gazebo on a raised deck, you won’t have to create new flooring for the structure.
Instead of going through all the effort of building new decking as the floor, you can simply use the decking that is already available there. It makes life a lot easier, and it just makes sense.
Is It Possible To Put A Gazebo On A Raised Deck?
Yes! It is very much possible to put your gazebo on a raised deck. In fact, we might even recommend it.
Why? As we already mentioned, placing a gazebo on a deck of any kind makes life a little easier, since you don’t have to build a whole new floor for it.
By having a gazebo on a raised deck, you’re elevating yourself, and you know what that means. You get a better view of everything around you! If you have a great garden or surrounding area, of course you would like to have a great view of it, right?
What Kind Of Gazebo Can Go On A Raised Deck?
Thankfully, you don’t have to be torn between choosing a pop-up or fixed gazebo structure to go on your raised deck. Both options work just fine! You can go to town choosing your favorite gazebo for the space you want to put it on.
Will The Gazebo Damage The Deck?
There is always the potential for a gazebo to damage your deck when it is being installed.
However, as long as you plan correctly and take your time with it, your deck will be fine. When it comes to hardtop decks, extra caution will be required.
It’s incredibly easy to make a mistake when installing one of these gazebos onto a raised deck.
To make sure that your decking doesn’t get damaged, you need to ensure that the screws get attached to the joists. If you only screw the gazebo into the decking, there will not be enough strength to hold the gazebo in place.
Attaching The Gazebo To A Raised Deck – What You Need To Know
When you install one of these gazebos, you will notice that the feet of the structure already have holes in them for it to be screwed down. You will need to ensure that the feet are placed over joists, so your decking does not get damaged.
To screw the gazebo to the deck, you will need to use galvanized screws. These screws need to be several inches long, though the exact length may vary depending on the type of deck you have.
Bolting your gazebo down is also a smart choice, especially if you live somewhere windy. You will need to make sure the whole structure is secure by using something strong to bolt it down. You don’t want all that hard work to go to waste, so take the extra step and ensure your gazebo’s longevity!
Many people have their reservations about using bolts for this use. They are incredibly difficult to get out if you ever change your mind, and they feel very permanent.
However, the use of bolts is one of the few ways to keep your gazebo safe for the time that it is in that place. If you ever do change your mind about the placement of your gazebo, you can always enlist the help of a professional to help you remove them.
Either that, or you will get them out yourself, with a little elbow grease, of course.
Temporary Or Pop Up Gazebos On Raised Decking
If you are only going to need a gazebo for a short time, you definitely don’t want to be drilling into your deck. Instead of potentially ruining your deck, you can use other methods to keep the gazebo secure for the time you need it.
Below is a list of a couple of suggestions for you to try out if your raised deck gazebo is only temporary:
- Use concrete block anchors
- Heavy plant pots
- Metal straps
Final Thoughts
So, there you are! Putting a gazebo on raised decking is very possible, and actually a pretty popular choice.
Depending on the type of gazebo you want to put up, and whether it is permanent or not, you will need to change a thing here or there. For temporary gazebos, all you need to do is weigh it down enough for it to be safe while it’s up.
For permanent ones, it’s a little more tricky, but worth the labor it takes! Are you planning on putting a gazebo on your raised deck?
