How Much Does a Gazebo Cost?

Highlights

• The typical cost range to build a gazebo is between $2,831 and $9,613, with homeowners across the country paying $5,763 on average.
• Several factors can affect the total cost of the project, including the gazebo size, shape, and material; the roof style and material; the flooring material; and the cost of labor.
• Gazebos offer many benefits, including increased outdoor living space, protection from the elements, durability, privacy, and a potentially increased home value.
• Homeowners may be able to install a DIY gazebo from a kit if they have the time and skills, but many homeowners will opt to hire a professional to build a customized and unique gazebo.

Some of the most memorable gardens have a welcoming gazebo to offer a central spot to congregate, relax, and take in the scenery. Gazebos add an eye-catching and luxurious amenity to any backyard, garden, or deck. Although many people think pergolas and gazebos are the same thing, in fact gazebos are stand-alone outdoor structures that have floors, roofs, and walls, while pergolas are open on the top and sides. Given pergolas’ additional advantages with regard to privacy and protection from the elements, homeowners can expect to pay more on gazebo cost than on pergola cost.

According to Angi and HomeAdvisor, a gazebo costs between $2,831 and $9,613 depending on a number of factors, with a national average price of $5,787. This guide will help readers discover the best gazebo for their property no matter their interests, needs, and budget.

Factors in Calculating Gazebo Cost

Several key factors can influence the total cost of a new gazebo built to liven up a backyard. While the average national cost of a gazebo is just under $6,000, the final cost for each homeowner will depend on important characteristics like gazebo size and shape, construction materials, roof style, and local labor rates.

Gazebo Size

Size matters when it comes to the cost of a gazebo. The more material and labor required, the more costly the product will be. Gazebos can come in a variety of sizes depending on a homeowner’s budget and needs—ranging from small gazebos that are 8 feet by 6 feet across to big gazebos measuring 14 feet by 20 feet. Round and square models tend to come in small and medium sizes, which make them ideal for covering a patio set or hot tub. Rectangular gazebos are available in larger options to provide more shade and room for entertaining. Typically, the price per square foot is between $70 and $100.The following table lists the price ranges for gazebos of different sizes.

Gazebo Shape

Gazebos also come in a variety of shapes: round, oval, square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, L-shaped, dodecahedron (12-sided), and triangular. More unique custom shapes are also a possibility but will cost more for the design and labor. Choosing a shape all comes down to personal preference and the intended use of the gazebo. In general, the more sides to a gazebo, the pricier it will be. The following are the price ranges based on size.

Gazebo Material

Gazebos can be made from a variety of materials, and each one comes with a different price point. Although not very common, brick gazebos are the most affordable. Their average cost is $2,000 to $3,500. They are extremely durable (except during an earthquake), retain heat well, and require little maintenance. Wooden gazebos, on the other hand, are quite common for their aesthetics and durability; they cost around $4,000 to $7,000. Their cost depends on the specific type of wood used: Pine is the cheapest, followed by tropical hardwood and redwood, and then cedar and bamboo, which have the highest price points. Gazebos can also be made from metal, with an average cost of $3,000 to $8,500. Varieties include aluminum, wrought iron, cast iron, and steel—in order of price from least to most expensive. Finally, structures made from vinyl cost between $4,000 and $7,500 and can look like other materials such as brick, metal, or wood. Needing minimum maintenance, they are effective at resisting hot temperatures, pests, and corrosion.

Roof Style and Material

The main benefit of a gazebo vs. a pergola is the solid roof of a gazebo, which offers more shade, privacy, and coverage from weather conditions. But the type of roof can impact the price of a gazebo. A prefabricated roof kit is about $600 to $900, while a custom roof costs $1,000 to $3,000. The cost also depends on the features of the roof. Some possibilities include shingles, wood shakes, and drainage systems, just as with the roof of a house. The material of the gazebo roof can also drive the price. Asphalt shingles are the most affordable option; wood, tile, fabric, and metal are a bit pricier; and glass and polycarbonate are at the next price level. Slate is the most expensive option.

Roof style can also influence the price. The most affordable styles are sloping and slanting roofs; gable, hipped, louvered, and double are at the next price point; and pitched and curved are the priciest.

Flooring Material

Some gazebos come with a floor, while others do not. The good news is that gazebo flooring is usually inexpensive, and prices range depending on the materials used to construct the floor and the intended square footage of the floor. Stamped concrete is the most expensive flooring material, and wood is the cheapest. What follows are some specific price ranges of the cost per square foot for flooring choices to give homeowners a better idea of what to expect (not including installation):

Labor

If a homeowner opts to hire a pro or one of the best handyman services in their area to help with installation, the labor fee to get the project done can also affect the total cost of building a gazebo. Factors like geographic location, competition between providers, and time of year can potentially influence the price of labor. Locations with a high cost of living tend to have higher labor costs in general. Rural areas, for example, will typically have lower labor fees than big cities. Comparison shopping can help homeowners find the least expensive quotes for gazebo installation cost.

Additional Costs and Considerations

There are additional costs that can sneak in and surprise homeowners when they are adding a gazebo to their landscape. From considering how the gazebo is delivered to preparing the land before installation to adding screens and other attractive customizations, it is important for homeowners to be mindful of these extra fees when they are choosing a gazebo.

Prefabricated vs. Custom Gazebo

There are three ways that gazebos are available to homeowners, each with its own price range. The least expensive are prefab gazebo kits, which make building and installing the gazebo easy. Ranging in price from $1,500 to $4,000 on average, kits can be purchased online or at a home improvement store. They come in limited styles but include ready-to-assemble materials and the hardware to put the gazebo together as a DIY project. It will cost an additional $300 to $800 to hire a professional to assemble it. The next option is a prebuilt gazebo, which costs between $2,000 and $7,000. It costs more up front, but no assembly is required, and it arrives fully assembled and ready to use. The most expensive option is a custom-designed gazebo, which includes a detailed gazebo plan. This project can range from $5,000 to $11,000 and beyond and involves hiring a contractor to build it. Benefits of this route include getting all the design features a homeowner desires and being able to mix and match materials.

Land Preparation

Before a new gazebo is installed, it is important for a homeowner to assess the ground where it will sit. The gazebo needs to go on a flat, level surface. If the yard is not ready, then the ground will need to be prepared properly, and this will add to the total cost of the project. It costs about $1,200 to $4,300 to grade the area, clear the land, and level it, which may entail removing trees and other vegetation. Preparing the area may also involve making a foundation out of concrete, brick, wood, or pavers. The price of the foundation will vary depending on the material.

Permits

Before planning to add a gazebo, homeowners are advised to check with city building codes or their homeowners association to see if a building permit is required. One might be necessary if the gazebo is located close to the street or utility poles. Also, the gazebo size typically plays a role in whether or not a permit is needed; structures larger than 10 feet by 10 feet may need a permit. Permits run between $150 and $500 depending on the jurisdiction.

Stain or Paint

One way to customize a gazebo is to stain or paint it. Of course, this step will add to the cost. Staining a gazebo costs between $1 and $3 a square foot depending on whether water-based, oil-based, solid, or clear stain is used. Oil-based is the most expensive from $35 to $120 per gallon, while clear stain is the cheapest at $20 to $60 per gallon. Paint is similar in cost at $2 to $5 per square foot or $40 to $60 a gallon, with oil-based paints costing more than water-based ones but lasting longer. Homeowners will also want to be sure to factor in the cost of labor if needed.

Screens or Enclosure

If bugs are a nuisance, residents can add a screen or other enclosure to their gazebo to improve the overall outdoor experience. Screens can be installed by a professional or purchased at a local home improvement store; simple screen kits that are easy to install and adjustable cost between $500 and $800. More complex and higher-end enclosures made out of materials like glass can run from $8,500 to $23,000.There are some gazebos sold with built-in insect netting or optional hanging rods or hooks to add netting.

Customizations

Some homeowners are looking to add all the bells and whistles to their backyard gazebo. With some imagination—and a flexible budget—a gazebo can be transformed into a luxurious lounge for relaxing or entertaining guests. The following are some popular customizations and their typical cost.

Gazebo Cost by Type of Material

Gazebos can be made from a variety of materials: brick, metal, vinyl, or wood. Each one has its pros and cons and average price range. Consumers in the market for a gazebo can weigh these considerations to determine which type of gazebo will be the best fit.

Brick

Brick gazebos are the most affordable with an average cost ranging between $2,000 and $3,500. They are extremely durable, retain heat well, and require little maintenance. They are a good choice for cold climates but do not do well in earthquake zones, since the mortar can crack and crumble with the movement.

Metal

A metal gazebo typically runs between $3,000 and $8,500. Aluminum is the least expensive metal at $4,500 to $6,000. While it is quite durable, it doesn’t do well in harsh weather. Wrought iron is long-lasting and costs $3,000 to $8,000. A cast iron gazebo costs $5,300 to $8,500, and while this price might be a bit higher, cast iron is stronger, requires minimal maintenance, and is very attractive. Finally, steel has the highest price point in this category—$7,000 to $9,000—but it provides the most durability of all metal types and is able to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Vinyl

Structures made from vinyl cost between $4,000 and $7,500. They are versatile, since they can look like any of the other gazebo materials. Requiring minimal maintenance, they also effectively resist hot temperatures, pests, and corrosion. However, they are susceptible to mold growth.

Wood

Wooden gazebos are attractive and durable, and they work well with any landscape design. They run between $4,000 and $7,000 depending on the specific kind of wood used. Pine is the least expensive but is not so durable. Tropical hardwood and redwood are more durable options but also a little more expensive at $4,800 to $7,000. Cedar runs $6,000 to $7,000 and is a great option; it is sturdy and has a pleasant scent that people enjoy. Finally, bamboo is the most sustainable type of wood, but it does not hold up well in extreme weather. The price range for bamboo is $4,600 to $6,000.

Benefits of Building a Gazebo

Building a homemade gazebo or having one installed by a professional brings many benefits to a property. Homeowners will enjoy increased outdoor living space with protection from weather and pests as well as more privacy, not to mention increased home value and curb appeal.

Increased Outdoor Living Space

Being able to seamlessly bring everyday activities from inside the home outdoors can be relaxing and enjoyable, since connecting to nature often helps people feel happier and calmer. Gazebos provide an easy way to do just that. They are the perfect spot to get some work done, read a book, play a game, meditate, work on an art project, host a dinner party, or have a conversation with a loved one. Often a focal point in the backyard or garden, a gazebo adds more living space for a family while being surrounded by flowers, trees, and other greenery.

Protection from the Elements

A significant benefit of having a gazebo is that they offer protection from the elements, whether it’s wind, rain, snow, or sun. Gazebos are essentially additional shelter and an extension of a home. They provide the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors without the annoyance of environmental factors like the weather, insects, or other pests. This means that people can still barbecue and enjoy a meal outside even if it is raining, for example. Customers will want to choose a gazebo that is water-resistant and sturdy enough to withstand a windy day.

Durability

Gazebos are generally durable, which makes them an attractive addition to any yard. However, some types of gazebos are more robust than others. Hard-top gazebos, such as ones with a metal roof, are much sturdier than those with a soft top. If a homeowner is looking for durability, they’ll want to stay away from portable or pop-up gazebos made with lighter materials, such as metal framing and fabric canopies. Instead, they’ll want to choose one with a frame made of metal or wood. Cedar and teak are hardiest wood options, while bamboo is the least so. For metal, homeowners can look for steel or cast iron as opposed to aluminum. Brick is also an excellent option, since it retains heat, making it quite durable in cold climates. However, homeowners living in earthquake zones will want to avoid brick, since it crumbles easily.

Privacy

For individuals who live close to their neighbors, like in a townhouse community, or in an area where passersby can peer into their yard, having a gazebo can add some privacy to the space, especially if it’s placed in a quiet corner. Adding screens, walls, and plants around the gazebo can help boost privacy, so it becomes a tranquil spot to hide away after a hectic day.

Low Maintenance

Gazebos are generally low maintenance and easy to look after. Some tasks for all types of gazebos include sweeping surfaces regularly, keeping the top clear of debris, and cleaning the exterior. It is also helpful to refinish the floor as needed and to replace rotted or worn-out components, such as bug netting. Wood structures may need to be repainted or restained, and concrete and brick may need additional sealants or coatings to keep moisture out. Metal gazebos can get rusty, so homeowners will want to use a rust inhibitor, and vinyl or fabric gazebos may need to be hosed down each season. Pressure washing is a good maintenance option but will cost $60 to $100 per hour unless it is a DIY project. With routine maintenance, a gazebo can last 10 to 20 years, with wood usually lasting 7 to 15 years and vinyl up to 20 years.

Customization Options

There are many ways to use a backyard pergola or gazebo, and there are also many options for customizations when it comes to gazebo designs. From roasting marshmallows at a fire pit under a gazebo to soaking in a hot tub to watching the big game on television while enjoying delicious food in the outdoor kitchen, the options to make the most of this special space are endless.

Improved Aesthetics

For those looking to beautify a property and add a unique place to sit and relax, gazebos enhance a yard, making it more aesthetically pleasing to both homeowners and visitors. Gazebos are charming and whimsical yet practical as well. They also provide a central focal point in any garden or backyard, offering a prime spot to plant around or to hang potted plants. Adding some lights will really help a gazebo shine in the evening, providing an attractive place for residents to gather with family and friends.

Increased Home Value

While homeowners probably recognize the value a gazebo brings to the quality of their lives and space, they often wonder if having one will boost the value of their home. This question can be challenging to answer, since home value is complex and based on factors like the local real estate market, the climate of an area, and the individual preferences of buyers. In areas where people can spend much of the year outdoors, a gazebo may be especially attractive to a buyer. The general consensus is that the return on investment (ROI) of a gazebo is between 50 percent and 80 percent, which means that for every $1,000 spent, $500 to $800 will be returned when the house sells.Overall, a gazebo helps make a property look more appealing and versatile when on the market.

Gazebo Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

The availability of ready-to-assemble gazebo kits with an affordable price tag of about $1,500 results in plenty of homeowners considering building and installing their own gazebo. A gazebo kit is pretty straightforward, since the materials are precut and ready to assemble, but it typically takes at least two adults up to 10 hours to complete the project. Pop-up gazebos are the easiest option, consisting of a metal frame that pulls apart or clicks into place and a soft canopy that straps in over the top.

Building a gazebo from scratch, such as a DIY wood gazebo, is more complex and can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $8,500 for the materials alone, including tools like a drill, ladder, and ratchet.In addition, it might be necessary to clear and level the land first, which adds more time and cost to the project; this includes the correct excavation equipment, which runs about $400. While building on one’s own can be done with the right skills and materials, the project could end up costing more time, money, and headaches than a homeowner anticipates. DIYers could choose the wrong materials or install them incorrectly, resulting in an unsafe structure and even injuries during the project.

To maximize the lifespan of the gazebo and ensure it is built correctly and safely, it may make sense for a homeowner to hire an experienced and insured local pro for the installation. This rate runs between $700 and $1,300 for the construction plans and $1,500 and $9,000 for the installation. The investment may be well worth it to guarantee that the structure is built correctly with a solid architectural design, top-notch materials, precise measurements, and the proper equipment.

How to Save Money on Gazebo Cost

With such a wide range of possibilities for building a gazebo and related costs depending on factors like size, shape, materials, screening, customizations, and labor fees, homeowners will appreciate some tips for keeping costs down and getting the best deal possible. When choosing a gazebo, consider the following options for keeping costs reasonable.

• Choose a small size. Cut costs by choosing a small gazebo (8 feet by 8 feet or 10 feet by 10 feet) with limited features.
• Choose a basic shape. Basic shapes like round, square, and rectangular cost less than more complicated shapes.
• Choose cheaper materials. Opt for a structure made with less expensive materials, such brick, aluminum, or pine.
• Consider DIY. Read up on how to make a low-cost DIY gazebo to determine whether this is a viable option for you.
• Take on some of the preparation work. Prepare the land without hiring help to save $100 to $250 per hour in labor costs.
• Go with prefab over custom. Choose a prefabricated gazebo to avoid high costs associated with customizations and construction plans.
• Build over a deck. Install the gazebo on a preexisting deck to save money on the base.

Questions to Ask About Gazebo Installation

Before hiring a professional gazebo installer, homeowners will want to do some research to find someone with experience in the region. This way, their familiarity with local rules and regulations as well as the soil makeup and erosion patterns of the area will ensure the gazebo is built on the proper foundation. Homeowners can refer to the following sample questions when speaking with local contractors about their plan for installing the gazebo and the cost of their services.

• What kind of experience do you have in the local area?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• Does this project require a permit, and if so, how much will that cost?
• Will you pull the permit, or do I need to do that?
• How long will the installation take?
• What are your fees?
• Does the ground need to be leveled?
• How sturdy is the gazebo I’ve selected, and how much wind can it withstand?
• Do you offer customizations like screens?
• What type of maintenance will I need to do over the years?

FAQs

Determining which type of gazebo to purchase and how to install it can quickly become overwhelming. It is helpful for homeowners to ask the right questions and to understand what they will pay for their specific project before they pull out the wallet. Total cost will depend on numerous factors, such as size, shape, materials, permitting, and land preparation as well as fees to hire a professional to help with design and/or installation. Knowing whether a certain type of gazebo is within their budget will make it easier for homeowners to choose the best fit. For those just beginning to think about adding a gazebo to their yard, the following are a few questions that may come up.

Q. How do I build a gazebo?

Building a gazebo takes quite a bit of knowledge and skills to get it right. First, homeowners will need to choose the materials to construct the gazebo, or they can opt for a prefabricated gazebo kit or one of the best pergola kits. Next, they’ll need to choose the best site, assess the land, and put in for a permit if one is required. Then it is time for them to build the base for the gazebo to sit on; the base is made of either concrete or wood. They will then secure the frame by setting posts, mounting bracing beams, and adding the top beams. Next will come putting up the walls, constructing the roof, and adding any customizations like screens, electrical, and lighting. If this sounds more complicated and time-consuming than a homeowner anticipates, they’ll want to consider hiring a pro to do the installation.

Q. Are prebuilt gazebos good?

Prebuilt gazebos and prefab kits are beneficial for some homeowners, since they are reasonably priced and easy to assemble as a DIY project. Pop-up gazebos are the easiest option, consisting of a metal frame that pulls apart or clicks into place and a soft canopy that straps over the top. However, they come in limited shapes, styles, and materials. They also may not be as durable and often lack appealing elements like screens or other enclosure features, electrical, and lighting.

Q. How long do gazebos last?

If a homeowner keeps up with a simple maintenance routine, then their gazebo can last 10 to 20 years, with wood usually lasting 7 to 15 years and vinyl up to 20 years.

Q. How much does it cost to have someone install a gazebo?

Hiring someone to assemble and install a gazebo from a kit costs about $300 to $800. For a customized gazebo, homeowners can expect to pay a professional between $700 and $1,300 for the construction plans and between $1,500 and $9,000 for the installation. Preparing the land will cost an additional $1,200 to $4,300.

Q. Is it hard to install a gazebo?

While putting together a ready-to-assemble gazebo kit is relatively straightforward, building a gazebo from scratch is more complex and not for inexperienced DIYers. The project requires certain tools and equipment (such as a drill, ladder, and ratchet) and skills involving carpentry, measuring, and excavation. Creating an attractive, high-quality gazebo that will last a long time is best left to the pros.

Q. Will gazebos increase my home value?

Gazebos have the potential to increase home value and add to the curb appeal of a property. While home value depends on a number of factors like the local real estate market, the climate of an area, and buyer preferences, the general consensus is that the return on investment (ROI) of a gazebo is between 50 percent and 80 percent, which means that for every $1,000 spent, $500 to $800 will be returned when the house sells.

Sources: Angi, HomeAdvisor, Lawn Love, LawnStarter, Thumbtack, HomeServe

 

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