Tips to Build a Gazebo
Are you handy and think you can build a gazebo from scratch? If the case there are plenty of free gazebo plans available in libraries and online, or blueprints available to buy.
The more expensive gazebo plans are architectural blueprints, which are much more specific and best suited to the experienced contractor. But a talented home improvement buff can make good use of the less expensive options available.
Good free gazebo plans are available from the BuildEazy website for basic gazebos of various sizes and styles to suit most tastes and uses.
There are several things to think about before starting to build a gazebo. Some basic carpentry tools are needed such as a level and a screw gun.
You will also need a compound miter saw to be able to cut the angles for the various sections of the gazebo. The sliding version is best for larger pieces of wood.
You can either bolt the gazebo to a concrete slab or pre-existing wood floor, or you can create it with a built-in floor. In the latter case, you will need to pour one concrete pier for each post.
Contact your local building department to find out how deep the concrete piers should be and whether there are any underground cables you should try to avoid. In some areas you might need prior approval to erect a gazebo.
Three kinds of woods are commonly used to build outdoor structures: pine, cedar and redwood. Pine is the softest and easiest to work with, but it decomposes the fastest. Cedar and redwood are harder and more expensive, but age well.
Alternatively, you can build a metal or vinyl gazebo. But unless you have all the heavy machinery for fabricating the parts, you’ll need to buy a gazebo kit.
These come in sections for you to assemble using the included hardware. A level and a screw gun are usually all that are needed. You might need help from a buddy, especially for the roof sections.
There are lots of options when it comes to building your own gazebo and you don’t have to be a carpentry star to get really good results. Just think, when you’re done you can sit inside it and enjoy your hard work.
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