Are you considering installing a gazebo on your property? Gazebos are increasing in popularity and come in different sizes, shapes, and designs. More homeowners are finding uses for a gazebo on a deck.
If you are searching for a creative way to entertain your guests on the patio, continue reading. This article will teach you a little history about gazebos, how to use them, and what to know before installing one.
What Is a Gazebo?
A gazebo is an outdoor open structure with a roof and open sides. People often build gazebos in backyards near gardens or ponds.
Gazebos originated from Europe around the 14th century and had many uses. The Egyptians built gazebos to grow grapevines, the Persians ran businesses in them, and the Chinese and Japanese used gazebos as temples.
Traditionally, gazebos were popular as bandstands in city parks. Many cultures used them for events, such as weddings or concerts, romantic scenes, or shelter from the rain. Farmers used them to take breaks from the heat.
Uses for a Gazebo
What’s nice about gazebos is that they are so versatile. You can order one for delivery or build your own. They vary in size, shape, and design and usually consist of wood or metal.
Having a gazebo in the backyard will allow you to sit down and relax with a book and iced tea. Rain or shine, you have your private haven to escape away from everything.
Gazebos are ideal for more than just relaxing; they can change the whole outlook of properties. A white gazebo next to a rose garden may accentuate the beautiful colours of the flowers.
Gazebos can be a shelter for birds and small animals or a serene setting to meditate or pray. You could use a gazebo as a small covered patio for outdoor family meals.
Are you having a picnic or birthday bash? A gazebo would make a great gathering place for your celebration, especially on a hot, sunny day.
Gazebos on a Deck
Will the weight of a gazebo break the deck? It depends on the deck and the structure. You may need to determine how much the deck can tolerate before choosing a gazebo style.
Whether you want fixed structures or ones you can pop up at a moment’s notice, gazebos are perfect for decks. The good news is that you can secure one down without damaging your patio.
There are several uses for a gazebo on a deck.
- A gazebo can take the place of a patio cover.
- You can attach a gazebo on a deck to your house for easy access to outdoor dining.
- Screened and glass gazebos keep the mosquitos out while you entertain guests.
- A gazebo on a swimming pool deck can be a drying station in the shade.
Creative Ways to Enjoy a Gazebo
Get creative with your gazebo to make it your special place.
Outdoor Cooking
Make your gazebo the hot spot for your social gatherings with an outdoor oven or grill. Cook, eat and socialize on your deck under a sturdy roof.
Outdoor Pub or Dining
If you are a social drinker, having a wine refrigerator or wet bar may be something to consider. Enjoy a cold drink while watching a game or a glass of wine during a moonlight dinner with your sweetheart.
Outdoor Illumination
Add lights to your gazebo to shine at night while conserving energy. They can be as dim or bright as you want, or add a dimmer so you can change the tone. There are other ways you can add illumination to your gazebo: a string of lights, a chandelier, or candles.
Outdoor Living Area
Put out some water-resistant outdoor furniture in your gazebo so that you and your guests can comfortably watch a movie or sit and talk. A fireplace or pit may add a cozy touch during those cooler nights on the deck.
Outdoor Oasis
Close the curtains, dim the lights, and enjoy the sounds of birds chirping, the wind blowing, or the rain trickling down the sides. Do you like hot tubs? A deck gazebo would be a perfect place to use one.
Where Is the Best Place to Put a Gazebo?
While planning to add a gazebo to your yard, there are things to keep in mind. Space, weather, location, and protocols will likely affect where your gazebo should go.
Space
Make sure you build or purchase a gazebo that fits your space. Area Acreage will help determine the size and shape of the structure to install. Another consideration is the type of deck you have.
Outdoor Elements
Find an area with four hours or more of shade and at least six hours of sunlight. A gazebo should be comfortable, not hot or cold. If you live in an area with severe weather, it may be wise to place the building away from power lines or other structures that lightning and strong winds can destroy.
Water
Water sources, such as a pond, fountain, or lake, may create a relaxing atmosphere while you watch the sunset in your gazebo. It should probably be in a secure spot that will resist the floodwaters during a storm.
Fire Safety
Follow safety codes in your area to prevent fires or explosions. Does your gazebo meet standards? Build your gazebo out of fire-resistant materials or plan to have a fire extinguisher handy. Be sure your gazebo is away from power lines or structures that can cause a fire during a storm.
Final Thoughts
Gazebos have made a comeback and are very useful in many ways. They protect you from the weather while you kick back with a book or entertain your friends. The outdoor structures add personality to landscaping.
A gazebo on a deck is perfect for grilling and entertaining guests in a smaller backyard. A pool deck gazebo can take the place of a pool house. Get creative with your gazebo by hanging lights or curtains and adding furniture.
Before installing a gazebo, check building regulations and safety standards. Learn what materials make a sturdy structure so you can enjoy your gazebo.
