Types and Functions of Gazebos

From backyard gardens to neighborhood parks, gazebos can be seen almost everywhere these days. The enormous popularity of gazebos can be attributed to the fact that they combine attractive decor with simple functionality. Some are quite elaborate, while others are fairly plain. They may serve as a place to entertain or simply as a stylish shelter from the elements.

Gazebos come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are rather large, while others can only fit a few people. The most common shapes are octagon, oval and rectangle. They can be as small as 6 x 6 feet, or as large as 14 x 32. Gazebos can have single or double roofs, and often have a small cupola on top, which is mainly decorative but can also be used for ventilation.

They are almost always made out of wood, usually pine or cedar. Due to its outstanding resistance to rot, decay and insects, cedar is the recommended choice for longetivity. Some gazebos are coated with vinyl, which can be more durable than wood and requires less maintenance overall.

Traditionally, gazebos were primarily a place to sit, relax, and survey the surrounding scenery. Recently, however, more people are using them to host social events. Many weddings now revolve around gazebos, as the ceremony and reception often take place there. They are also often used as the central point for parties and backyard barbeques. For owners of larger gazebos, a recent trend has also been to place hot tubs inside. Others prefer to transform their gazebo into an outdoor dining room, adding tables as well as other furniture.

Gazebos can be built by just about anyone, though most people choose to purchase them. Before installing a gazebo, several factors should be evaluated. First, the location of the structure should be carefully considered. Proximity to the house depends on the intended use of the gazebo. For those wishing to use it as a haven of peace and quiet, farther away from the house is probably the best idea. Those that are planning to utilize it for parties and family gatherings will likely want to locate it closer to the residence.