There are several choices for the primary materials used to construct your gazebo. All of these choices significantly impact the overall look and style of your gazebo, so choose one that’s going to suit your application and that will look great for years to come.

Metal Gazebos

Metal isn’t one of the more common materials used for gazebo construction unless it’s a commercial application. Most metal gazebos are made using aluminum, steel or wrought iron. 

Aluminum Gazebos

Aluminum is the least expensive choice and is a relatively sturdy, lightweight material making construction a little easier for the average homeowner. Most aluminum gazebos are the simple screened designs, meant to be taken down at the end of every summer, and are not permanent structures. Aluminum gazebos consist of a simple tent like frame that you assemble, and then a fabric material is attached either in an open or screened in configuration.

For more information, photos and ideas on gazebos, visit Summerwood.com.

If you’re looking for a very large permanent gazebo, especially something for a commercial setting such as a public park, golf course or the like - steel is your best bet. Steel will stand the test of time and is virtually indestructible to issues such as vandalism.

Steel gazebos are available in a number of styles and sizes, from simple covered shelters, to more elaborate designs with rails and decorative roofing options such as weathervanes and finales. Steel gazebos can also incorporate wood into the design, with such elements as a wooden tongue and groove roof and wooden rails. These wooden design elements help soften the look and feel of steel gazebos.

Steel gazebos come knocked down (unassembled) and will normally require heavy lifting equipment, welders and metal workers for the build. Not designed for the average home application.

Vinyl Gazebos

For those looking for a low maintenance gazebo design, vinyl is an option. Available in a wide variety of sizes and styles, vinyl gazebos are great for those requiring very durable and long lasting specifications. While it's a personal preference, we don't really like the look of vinyl for residential applications, but each to their own.

Depending on where you purchase your gazebo - the environmental impacts of vinyl can be quite low. Vinyl is created using salt, a practically unlimited natural resource. However some non-renewable resources such as petroleum are also required in the manufacturing process - so be sure to ask your retailer how their vinyl is manufactured.

Environmental issues aside, vinyl gazebos are almost maintenance free, aside from a yearly pressure wash of course, which makes them a popular choice. The problem with vinyl is that it almost looks plastic - which isn't always popular for a gazebo design. This look does work well in a more commercial setting, and the low maintenance aspect appeals to maintenance managers of commercial properties.

Wooden Gazebos

If you’re looking for an easier installation, something permanent, and something with a “warmer” feel to it, woods the way to go – specifically cedar. Wood gazebos are shipped in a precut or preassembled format and are relatively easy to build in comparison to steel and vinyl gazebos, providing a completely different look as well.

Sizes and style abound in this material - as wooden gazebos are undoubtedly the most popular choice. They look great, and when constructed with cedar, last a very long time, can't beat the smell of cedar either.  Cedar gazebos age gracefully, and like copper seem to actually look better with a little weathering.  

The available styles of wooden gazebos are countless as are the accompanying options. Depending on it's use, you can choose from open to fully enclosed designs - with thermal doors and windows and some electrical, you can comfortably use your gazebo year round.

Wooden gazebos can still be used in commercial settings and are available in sizes up to 30 foot diameter.

For more information, photos and ideas on gazebos, visit Summerwood.com.