According to a 2021 ICFA survey, over 53% of Americans don’t want their decks to be just an aesthetically pleasing showpiece. Rather they want their outdoor living space to be more functional and enjoyable so that they get actual use out of it.
And if you are one of these Americans, you can always build a stunning gazebo on the deck to make the most of the space and add value to your home. It is a fantastic addition to your property and can make for the perfect place for a quiet cup of tea or a happening gathering.
But then again, you might ask yourself,
Can I build a gazebo on the deck without damaging it?
Well, if the deck is strong and sturdy enough, you can build your gazebo on it without the risk of any potential damage. And it is true for both fixed and pop-up structures. The perfectly finished surface of the deck provides a stunning floor for the structure while also saving the cost of constructing one.
Now the question may arise.
What kind of deck can support a gazebo?
As a gazebo is quite a heavy structure, not all of the decks can support it securely. You need strong, sturdy decks like a traditional wood deck or a stone or concrete deck to securely hold the gazebo. Decks built on water or elevated with tall supports are not the right ones for your outdoor living space. Because they do not have any stronger base, these decks might fall apart if you try to build something heavyweight on them.
But you still might wonder how to build a gazebo securely on the deck so that it stays put and doesn’t fall off anytime soon.
Let’s find out.
5 Steps to Build a Gazebo on a Deck
We have discussed the steps to build a gazebo on a deck easily and in no time so that you can make the most use of your outdoor space.
Step 1: Prepare Yourself
Preparing and planning are extremely important, especially if you are getting into any construction work. If you don’t have the required preparation before you get yourself into building a gazebo, then you might face unnecessary hurdles during the construction process, which might delay the execution too.
Once you decide to add a gazebo to your existing deck, decide on the type and size of the structure you want. This is because all other things, like material and cost, greatly depend on these. However, as you will build it yourself, a simple design would be the best for you.
After you have finalized the design, don’t forget to estimate the material, cost, and time too. Even though all these things vary with the design and your preference, let’s still look at the estimation for an initial idea.
- Materials: Wood,
- Tools Required: Screws, wrench, ladder
- Estimated Time: 2-3 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Experience Level: Mid-level
- Estimated Cost: $300-$350
Step 2: Attach the Pillars
A gazebo requires at least four pillars to stand firm over the deck. And hence, after you are done planning and preparing, it will be your first job to attach the pillars to the base (the deck). Measure and mark the surface perfectly so that you attach the posts in the right place for your gazebo. Fix the wooden pillars with screws and post bases for maximum hold.
However, remember that as you are setting your gazebo on the top of a finished deck, the hardware would be visible. And therefore, try to get alluring ones- they will look nice on the floor.
Step 3: Place the Bracing Beams and the Upper Beams
After securely attaching the pillars on the deck, mount the bracing beams on all sides except the door opening. These beams help you to keep the structure tightly held together. Place them perpendicular to the pillar and secure them with bolts so that the structure doesn’t fall off anytime soon.
When you finish the bracing beams, move on to the upper beam. Mount the top beams the same way as you did the bracing beams. It will not only join all the posts together but also build the roof’s base.
Step 4: Put on the Roof
If your gazebo plan has walls on it, then put on the walls first before assembling the roof. Once the walls are raised, and the window frames are done, attach the roof beams and form a triangular structure. Then assemble the shingles, and voila! Your gazebo on the deck is complete.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Even though you are done constructing and setting up your deck gazebo, it’s not actually complete yet. You need to apply the finishing touches to make it ready for use. Blend it with your surroundings and sync the structure with your house; paint it with a matching or contrasting color. You might also add decorative curtains, wind chimes, and other items to make it a personal space.
A Few Tips
As you are building a gazebo on an existing deck, you must consider a few things to avoid any accidents during or after the construction.
- Before even planning the structure, don’t forget to check for pipes and wires underneath the deck. Call 811 (the national call-before-you-dig number) to check the place.
- You must get a permit from the local authorities before building a gazebo on your property. It will keep you away from any legal troubles.
- If you require heavy-duty tools to build your gazebo, rent them instead of buying them. It will save cost.
- Match the gazebo with your home style to make them sync together. Otherwise, the structure would seem out of place and become an “eyesore.”
- Don’t make the roof too heavy. As you construct the gazebo on an existing deck, a heavyweight structure might weaken it over time.
Wrapping Up
Building a gazebo on a deck isn’t something as difficult or impossible as you might think. Taking this article as a guide will help you with every step and make the gazebo construction super easier for you. If you have already built one yourself, don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comment box.
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