Treated Pine Gazebos

You like the price of treated pine, but you are not sure it will cope with your weather, your sun or your rain. This page walks through the shapes and sizes on offer, so you can match one to your space and judge whether pressure treated pine is a sensible, value minded choice for where you live.

Rectangular gazebos

Rectangular is the most common shape in this range, and the sizes run from small to very long. It suits patios, decks and lawn edges where you want straight lines that sit neatly against a house or fence. Smaller footprints work as a quiet corner for a table and a couple of chairs. Mid sizes have room for a dining set. The longest ones suit entertaining or a large garden.

Rectangular double roof gazebos

Several rectangular models come with a double roof. The name tells you the roof is built differently from the single roof versions, so the gazebo looks more finished from a distance. These start at a mid size and go up to very large. They are worth a look if the gazebo will be a feature of the garden, not just a place to sit. Check the footprint carefully, because the bigger ones need a lot of flat ground.

Oval gazebos

Oval shapes soften a yard full of straight fences and square patios. They suit buyers who want something a little more relaxed in look, and who have room for a longer footprint. The range starts at a compact size and stretches to long models. Some are available with a double roof as well. If you are placing one in the middle of a lawn, an oval often looks more natural than a box.

Octagon gazebos

Octagons are measured by a single number, which makes them easy to picture: the 12 foot, 14 foot, 16 foot, 18 foot and 20 foot models are the sizes you will see. They work well as a centrepiece, because the shape looks balanced from every side. They suit a round seating group or a spot where the gazebo can stand on its own. Both single roof and double roof versions are listed.

How to choose

Start with the climate, since that is the real question with treated pine. Pressure treated wood is made for outdoor use, but it is still wood. Wet, humid or very sunny places ask more of it than mild, dry ones. If your weather is hard on timber, plan for regular upkeep and read the retailer's care and assembly instructions before you buy.

• Footprint first. Measure the flat area, then leave space around it for walking and for the roof edge.
• Shape for the setting. Rectangular fits against straight lines, oval softens a lawn, octagon works as a centrepiece.
• Roof style. Single roof models are simpler. Double roof models change the look and are offered in many sizes.
• Size for use. Think about what will actually go underneath: a bench, a dining table or a hot tub.
• Value over time. A smaller gazebo that you maintain well can serve you better than a bigger one you neglect.

Questions people ask

Is treated pine good enough for a gazebo?

It is made for outdoor use, which is why it is common in gazebos and decks. How well it lasts depends on your weather and how you look after it. Treat it as a material that needs some care, not one that can be ignored.

Do I need a foundation?

You need level, firm ground at the least. Follow the retailer's manual for what it recommends for your model and size.

Which shape is easiest to place?

Rectangular models are usually the easiest to fit against a house, deck or fence. Oval and octagon shapes tend to look best with clear space around them.

Is a double roof worth choosing?

It is a matter of taste and budget. The double roof gives the gazebo a different look, and it is available across rectangular, oval and octagon models. A single roof is the simpler choice.