The average lawn size in the country has been decreasing over the years. Thus, If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t have a lot of extra space in your backyard. So if you’re thinking about adding a gazebo to your property, you’ll want to make sure you choose the right one.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax or entertain guests, this guide will help you find the perfect gazebo for your small backyard. You’ll learn everything from size and style to materials and construction.
Size
When it comes to choosing a gazebo for a small backyard, size is important. You’ll want to ensure that the gazebo is proportional to the size of your yard. Otherwise, it will look out of place and take up too much space.
As a general rule, the gazebo should be no more than 10% of the total square footage of your yard. So if your yard is 1,000 square feet, your gazebo should be no larger than 100 square feet.
Of course, you’ll also need to consider the size of the other elements in your yard, such as trees, bushes, and decks. If you have a lot of other large features, you may need to scale down the size of your gazebo accordingly.
Style
The next thing to consider is style. There are many styles of gazebos, and you’ll want to choose one that complements the other elements in your yard. For example, if your house is traditional, you might want to choose a classic octagonal gazebo. Or, if your yard is more modern, you might prefer a square or rectangular gazebo.
You should also consider the roof style when choosing a gazebo for a small backyard. The most popular roof styles are hip and pyramid. But there are also many other options, such as flat, domed, and thatched.
Material
The material of your gazebo is also essential as it will affect your structure’s look and durability. The most popular materials used in gazebo construction are wood, metal, and vinyl.
Wooden gazebos are the most traditional option. They’re also very strong and durable. One of the best options for making gazebos using wood is oak. Oak structures are also beautiful and natural-looking, which can add to the aesthetic of your yard. Moreover, they’re easy to customize. You can stain or paint them any color you want.
Another popular material for gazebos is metal. Metal gazebos are usually made from aluminum or steel. They’re very strong and durable, but they’re also more expensive than wood.
Vinyl gazebos are a newer option. They’re made from PVC, which is a type of plastic. Vinyl gazebos are very easy to maintain. They won’t rot or corrode, and they’re not susceptible to insect damage. Plus, they’re usually cheaper than wood or metal gazebos.
Construction
Finally, you’ll need to consider the construction of your gazebo. There are two main types of construction: pre-fabricated and custom-built.
Pre-fabricated gazebos are made in a factory and then shipped to your home. They’re usually made from wood, metal, or vinyl. On the other hand, custom-built gazebos are built on-site from scratch. This option is more expensive, but it allows you to customize the design and materials.
Pre-fabricated gazebos are the way to go if you’re working with a limited budget. But custom-built gazebos are the better option if you have more money.
Tips for Installing a Gazebo in a Small Backyard
Now that you know everything you need to consider when choosing a gazebo, it’s time to talk about tips for installing one in a small backyard.
Choose the right location
The first step is to choose the right location for your gazebo. You’ll want to pick a spot that’s level and well-drained. Avoid placing your gazebo near trees, as the roots can damage the structure.
Get a permit
If your gazebo is more than 10 feet (ca. 3 meters) tall, you’ll need a building permit from your city or county, such as for Wheeling, IL.
Hire a professional
Unless you’re an experienced handyman, it’s best to hire a professional to install your gazebo. This will ensure that the job is done properly and that your gazebo is safe and structurally sound.
Follow the instructions
Once you’ve hired a professional or decided to tackle the project yourself, follow the instructions with your gazebo kit. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure that your gazebo is installed correctly.
Closing Thoughts
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start shopping for the perfect gazebo for your small backyard. Just remember to take your time and choose the right structure for your needs and budget.
