How to Plan a Gazebo
Building a gazebo in your backyard is a great way to improve your home, and increase your property value. Relaxing in the shade in the summer with your friends and family is the perfect way to spend your free time. To build a gazebo, you need to obtain all the necessary permits, and design a plan that works for your budget and space.
- Contact the local building department. Some local governments have restrictions on new construction as well as specific codes and regulations you must follow. You may need to get permits before you can legally begin construction. Find out all the information regarding building a structure on your property before you begin planning a gazebo.
- Calculate your budget. The overall cost of a gazebo depends on number of factors including labor and materials. Creating a budget prior to planning a gazebo will help you make better choices as you go through the process of selecting supplies and design elements. If you plant to hire workers to build you gazebo, contact local construction firms to get an idea of how much you might have to pay for labor.
- Choose the perfect spot for the structure. Defining where you want to build a gazebo will help you determine the size of the gazebo and the type of foundation you’ll need to use. Some areas of your yard may be problematic or unsuitable for construction, so exact location is something that must be determined early on in the planning process.
- Select a gazebo design. Gazebos are built in a variety of shapes and sizes ranging from simple circular pergolas to ornate diamond-shaped structures. Take your budget into account and have realistic expectations, especially if you plan to use expensive materials. Most people prefer gazebos made out of wood, but they can also be built using vinyl, metal or aluminum. Wood is a great choice for classic gazebos, but it’s a very expensive material. Metal and aluminum gazebos are very affordable and can be decorated with stylish gazebo canopies that provide extra shade.