|
In a perfect
world, we'd choose a gazebo in person. Walk around
it. And stand under its roof.
 All
the while visualizing how you'll build
it, how you'll use it, where to site it, and how
to decorate it -- inside and out.
Of
course, that's not always possible. Especially
when the gazebo kit is from a distant resource.
So, easy outdoor decor is here to help in this
not-so-perfect world.
The first step in living the
gazebo lifestyle is finding the perfect kit type.
This article makes that first step
with you. Let's explore a
variety of gazebo kit types, including lumber packages.
Find your inspiration!
Let's get
started!
Manufacturers
make gazebo kits available in several forms:
-
Plans with instructions
-
Lumber packages
-
Precut lumber packages
-
Panelized packages
-
Ready-built structures
Here's what to look for in each:
Choosing A Gazebo
Kit Type
Plans With
Instructions
This type of kit caters
to the tastes of the avid do-it-yourselfer. Or better said: the skilled
hobbyist!
These are also great for the
less-skilled, yet avid hobbyist who wants to take it to the next
level.
Before you buy, though, know
what comes in the kit. Plans for this type of
gazebo kit can vary a lot among gazebo manufacturers.
But all quality gazebo kits are very detailed with
truly step-by-step instructions.
Many gazebo manufacturers have downloadable material lists
available at their websites.
|
Easy Outdoor Decor
Tip...The materials list itself should
be so complete that you could take it to your home
improvement center. Hand it to a clerk. And leave the
store with everything you need to complete the project.
|
If yours is available online, download it, and
make sure it specifies:
-
All materials
-
Grades
and types of materials
-
Quantities that cover waste and the
occasional builder faux pas
-
List of tools required --
either purchased or rented
-
Foundation specifications & dimensions
-
Easily readable step-by-step
instructions
that also shows when and if
a helper is needed
-
Illustrated, detailed, annotated
drawings, schematics, illustrations, or photographs of the steps
to complete the project
-
Terms and definitions lists
-
Task check list
Lumber Packages
A lumber package gazebo should have everything in the list
above, and also include the lumber you'll need to complete the
job.
Pre-cut Lumber Packages
You don't need to come
from a long line of carpenters to tackle
this type of gazebo kit.
But gazebo manufacturers recommend something
beyond basic woodworking skills. Making this a great one-on-one,
bonding and teaching outdoor decor project!
A quality pre-cut lumber package comes with everything
on the "Plans with Instructions" list, plus all the actual
lumber -- cut to length, but not pre-assembled -- and
ready to use!
|
Easy Outdoor Decor
Tip...Get acquainted with lumber grade
stamps. They tell you about lumber species,
frequency of defects, grade, and moisture content.
The stamp is there to guide you in choosing the right
lumber for your
project. |
The materials are color-coded, banded together, strapped to
a pallet, loaded on a truck, and delivered to your door.
Accessories like cupolas, shingles, sealer and paint are add-ons
you may need to supply. So, talk to the gazebo manufacturer
early on to see what materials, cutting, milling, or
drilling you'll need to do.
Besides the "Plans with Instructions" list, a high-quality, all-inclusive pre-cut
lumber package gazebo kit should also have:
- Precision cut lumber for all floors,
walls, ceiling, and roof
- Tongue-and-groove roof boards for a
solid ceiling
- Roofing felt specified as a vapor
barrier on top of the ceiling
- Roof seam ridge caps
Panelized
Packages
Well, what do you know -- it's
instant gratification in a kit!
It comes standard in panelized package gazebo kits.
And they're extremely easy on the wallet.
What's more, it's a prefab gazebo...meaning...modular...meaning...
-
Walls are delivered pre-assembled
-
Lots of detail options to choose from --
like rail and roof styles
-
Roof can be delivered already finished
in a variety of roofing materials
-
Upgrades like optional flooring packages
This is an easy outdoor decor project you can finish
in a day. And you only need two tools: a power screwdriver and
a friend.
Before you
commit, make sure to get the particulars on any piece of the process
you'll need to do yourself.
|
Easy Outdoor Decor
Tip...Flooring packages for a prefab
gazebo aren't always modular. So that friend whose
helping -- well -- they'd be more helpful if they knew a
little something about working with wood.
|
A no-frills flooring package cost
under $1000. And if you have the floor installed by a contractor, add
about $500-$750 to your budget.
Ready-Built Gazebos
Some might say that ready-built gazebos
are the best of all gazebo kit worlds. A little
instant gratification blended with just a
smidgen of do-it-yourself.
Does it get any better? I think
not!
These are shipped completely
assembled, but not finished. The unpainted surfaces
give you a chance to get in touch with your weekend worrier
without you having to actually build the entire
gazebo.
And did you know
that you can even rent-to-own a pre-built gazebo
kit?
|
Easy Outdoor Decor
Tip...Know what you're getting with a ready-built
gazebo kit. Ask for detailed specifications
of the gazebo -- as you will receive
it. |
You also need to know what tasks you'll have to do
yourself once your gazebo arrives.
And you want to know about delivery access and site
preparation. If your site is heavily wooded, for instance, you
may need to remove trees or grade a path to the gazebo
site.
Gazebo manufacturers have contracts with delivery
services that use specialized equipment like crane-equipped
trucks and zero-turning radius motorized dollies.
The equipment helps them to navigate tight spaces
and confined areas so you can have
your gazebo sited anywhere you want.
Top of
page
| 
