There are lots of different styles of gazebo and some are easier to set up and build than others – there’s even been some debate as to what a gazebo is as there are different types of structures often referred to as gazebos. 

Why not check out our blog post on what a gazebo is, to find out more about gazebos, pagodas, cupolas and more!

You can, of course, build a gazebo from scratch too. This is a little more complicated than just buying one that you set up, but read on to find out how to build/set-up almost any type of gazebo.

Individual pole gazebo

  1. Choose your location 

You’ll need a wide open, flat area to set up any gazebo. Make sure you’ve gathered everything you need and lay everything out – sometimes this helps visualise where your gazebo will reside before you start building in case you change your mind about its positioning.

  1. Assembly

Once you’ve located all your parts and laid them out, it’s time to slowly start putting them together. It’s easiest to start assembling your gazebo from the middle of the canopy and working your way around. You can place the canopy over the top part of the frame once it’s built, before you move onto the legs. 

The best way to attach legs that come in multiple pieces is to first attach them section by section in each corner, especially if assembling alone.

  1. Attach canopy and anchor

Apply all the finishing touches such as the canopy by pulling it over the frame and attaching into place securely. It’s also a good idea to anchor your gazebo to prevent it from flying away if the wind picks up. Read on to learn about different ways you can anchor a gazebo.

Setting up a Pop-up Gazebo

Also sometimes called gazebo tents, these are temporary structures often used for outdoor events and dining. These gazebos are best when put up with a pair or two of extra hands so go grab the nearest capable human being available and then follow the next steps.

  1. Choose your location

You’ll need a wide open, flat area to set up any gazebo. Make sure you’ve gathered everything you need and lay everything out. Visualise how the area will look with your gazebo built so that you don’t have to keep moving it around into different positions once it’s built as this will be harder.

  1. Unfolding the frame

Grab someone to help you for this step and begin slowly stretching out the structure in each direction evenly until it’s fully opened and standing the right way up. 

The easiest way to do this is to grab a leg each and lift slowly off the ground before stepping back till it opens up, but don’t open it up fully yet!

  1. Set up the canopy

This step is easier if you haven’t opened the frame out fully yet, but is not impossible either way so don’t panic. Make sure you place the canopy evenly over the frame and fix the corners down. Step on one of the foot pieces and lift the frame upwards to fully extend the legs of the gazebo.

How to build your own gazebo

While this is a lot more time-consuming than buying a pop-up or pre-built gazebo, it is doable and can be more long-lasting than other gazebos. 

  1. Clear the area

Check the area you want to build the gazebo in for pipes/wires and other obstructions. Familiarise yourself with the area and plan the space out. This includes levelling the ground to help the structure stay sturdy.

  1. Check if you need a permit/obtain one

Some areas of the country (or world) require you to have a permit when building structures on your property, so remember to do your research and get what you need to avoid any difficulties in future.

  1. Make a solid foundation

You’ll need a solid base for your gazebo, whether a concrete slab or wooden deck, make sure the base is sturdy.

  1. Cut and build the posts

Depending on how you plan to attach the posts, you may need to dig holes with a post hole digger to provide the adequate support for your gazebo. Measure twice, cut once, when cutting the poles so that they are all the correct length.

  1. Make it sturdier

Bracing beams will help keep the structure balanced and strong, so make sure to add beams to ensure your gazebo stays standing for years to come.

  1. Assemble the roof/walls

Cut, build and attach your walls and roof (or just roof, if you’re going wall-less), it’s easier to assemble the wall panels on the ground separately before attaching them to the structure.

  1. Finishing touches

Paint, decorate, protect your gazebo to your heart’s content. Why not pick up a comfy garden bench and some cushions to place inside for a cosy hideout spot? Pick up any gazebo accessories you may need and check out our guide on ‘How to Decorate a Gazebo’.

How do I anchor my gazebo?

There are a few ways of anchoring your gazebo once it’s set up, most of them are quite effective but you may need to find one that suits you and your outdoor space the best, as well as consider whether you want a more permanent fixed position or just temporary.

How can I prevent my gazebo from blowing away?

Even once you’ve anchored your gazebo to something heavy or drilled it down, you may want to take a few extra precautions just in case, especially during storms and windy weather.

  • Remove the roof – if your gazebo has a removable roof, this is a good way of stopping the air circulating up underneath and whisking it away.
  • Move your gazebo – place it somewhere more protected from winds or put it away if foldable/easy to store.
  • Close side panels – if your gazebo has walls or panels, these could prevent wind entering and circulating inside.
  • Add more weight – even though you may have added weights and other attachments already, it is always worth adding more during periods of high winds to be safe.

If, after learning all about how to set one up you’ve figured out that gazebos aren’t for you, why not try a veranda, or perhaps a pergola?