Simple Instructions on How to Build a Rectangular Gazebo
What is a beautiful feature in your backyard landscaping, and a perfect spot to relax in the shade? The gazebo! Although learning how to build a rectangular gazebo can be slightly tasking, the rewards are well-worth the effort. It usually costs a fraction of the store price. Once you have created this summer haven, you can surround the structure with flower beds, set up a patio set for al fresco dining, and hang a hammock from the rafters for afternoon naps or a good read. Enjoy the outdoors bug-free all season long.
Designing the Rectangular Gazebo
A gazebo is typically a stand-alone covered deck, although some homeowners build it into (or onto) their existing deck or patio. Railings and screening are usually part of the structure. A rectangular gazebo is much easier to build than an octagon shape, mainly because there are fewer angles to complicate matters when it comes to the roof and decking.Be sure to design the structure large enough for your needs. As a general rule, the decking should be no less than an 8' x 10' rectangle. In order to comfortably fit a family patio dining set inside, the space should be a minimum of 10' wide and 12' long.
You will have to decide whether you want screening. Screening allows you some privacy, serves as a windbreak, and keeps the flying insects out. Railings are an option, and you must consider the finish on the roof - although asphalt shingles are popular, cedar shakes are also often used.
Basic Step-by-Step Instructions
The smart way to begin this project is by acquiring a plan. You can find plans for many different gazebo sizes and designs online. If they are not exactly to your liking, or do not meet your local building code requirements, simply tweak them to meet your needs. Some plans include a lumber and cut list, making it that much simpler for you to build a rectangular gazebo. The unique features and size of your property will dictate some of the structure’s measurements and specifications.The basics of construction are as follows:
Step 1 - Posts or Piers
The flooring of your gazebo is essentially a deck and requires the same level of support. Dig the holes approximately 20-24" wide and 36-48" deep (depending on the frost line in your area). Place a 4x4 post in each hole, allowing it to sit 2 to 3 feet above ground, and fill with quick-setting concrete. The deck posts will be cut to the proper height when you install the framing.Some contractors lay out the posts at each corner of the gazebo, with extra posts spaced out (between 5 and 7 feet apart on center) along the sides and across the span of the flooring. Others prefer to cantilever the deck beyond the posts in order to cut down on the total number of piers installed. Remember that the distance of your cantilever must conform to the local building code. Whatever method you choose, you need to be sure that the gazebo is sturdy.
Step 2 - Deck Framing and Roof Support
You will be building the floor of your gazebo as if you were building a deck.
- Use 2x8’ beams on either side of each post. Lag the beams into the 4x4's or pre-drill and use a carriage bolt.
- Install a 2x8’ ring joist around the gazebo, toe nailing it to the tops of the beams.
- Cut off the 4x4 posts so that they are level with the tops of the beams.
- Place 2x6’ or 2x8’ joists perpendicular to the beams and across the flooring at 16" on center. Toe nail to the beams.
The support posts for the roof should be 6x6, although 4x4 will work. Again, space the support posts to follow your local building code or as the gazebo plans dictate. One in each corner is the minimum. Attach these posts to the joists and block in using 2x6 or 2x8. If you have decided on a railing, now is the time to install the railing posts. Spaced no more than 4 feet apart, these can be short 4x4's attached to the joists and blocked in similar to the roof supports.
Step 3 - Flooring
Once the frame is in place, you can lay the decking of your gazebo. Cut around the support posts and any railing posts. Nail or screw the deck boards to the joists and finish off the gazebo floor by framing the decking with fascia.Step 4 - Roof Trusses, Sheathing and Shingles
Install the roof beams, connecting the roof support posts. A laminated double beam is best (two 2x6's nailed together and notched to go around the posts).
Because roof trusses must be cut and engineered a specific way for safety purposes and ease of installation, it is wise to buy a pre-made truss system or have one built for you by a professional. It is worth the investment to buy them pre-assembled. Attach to the top of the roof beams and carry on.Plywood sheathing should be cut to size and installed. Next, roof felt paper is set down before the roofing material is laid out and nailed on.
Step 4 - Dressing It Up
You can dress up your gazebo with ornamental railings, privacy screens, gingerbread trim, or other decorative additions. It is entirely up to you.To build a rectangular gazebo you need a set of plans, a few basic tools, and a certain amount of time on your hands (most carpenters say about five or six full days). You will find the project easy on your wallet, and an ideal way to acquire a customized gazebo, one that is exactly to your liking.
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