Hal Major © 2009
BobVilaContractors.com
The true origin of the word gazebo is unknown. Some believe it's Hispano-Arabic meaning mirador or viewing platform. Today gazebo means a freestanding, usually open-sided structure providing a shady resting place. A great gazebo allows us to bring the outdoors, indoors. Gazebos are generally in the shape of a hexagon or octagon. Although, square and rectangular shaped gazebos have become popular in recent years. The traditional gazebo has open sides.
The solid roof gazebo
The most common gazebo is the solid roof gazebo. It provides the most protection from the sun and rain. The roof or top of the gazebo is constructed similar to the roof of a house. That is the roof is supported by trusses and has a substrate of plywood or flakeboard. The top covering is cedar shake shingles that provide a natural look.
The pergola style gazebo
The pergola gazebo has a roof constructed of boards set on their edge. These boards are called stringers. This allows more sunlight through while still providing some shade. The ends of the stringers are generally cut in a decorative pattern that is often referred to as the pergola cut.
A pergola style gazebo is an excellent choice for plant lovers and for those plants that like a little sun and shade. Plant hangers are screwed into the stringers and hanging baskets attached to the hangers providing a growing garden to admire and enjoy. If you are looking for a little privacy and shade but don't want to completely block out the sun, a pergola gazebo is the right choice.
The enclosed gazebo
An enclosed gazebo is a solid roof gazebo with screened-in sides. This provides protection from insects, birds and nosy critters that decide to make your gazebo their home. The screens are removable for many of the enclosed style gazebos. This makes it easy to repair a screen, as well as for cleaning the screens and the floor of the gazebo.
Gazebo add-ons
There are tons of add-ons and accessories available to make your gazebo more comfortable. If the evenings get a little chilly just turn on the propane or electric heater to warm it up. Do you want to listen to your favorite music but you don't want to lug your stereo or radio in and out of the house? No problem. Wireless remote speakers are available.
Do you experience those hot sultry afternoons and early evenings when there isn't a hint of a breeze? Install a ceiling fan made for patios and gazebos and let the breeze begin.
Other options
A few other options you might consider are lights and flooring. Using low voltage lighting is safe and provides great ambiance. You can add flooring to close off the space between the deck boards. This reduces the intrusion of creepy crawly bugs and mosquitoes.
Building a gazebo in your garden enhances the living space of your home and provides a relaxing space to get away from everything for a while.
