7 Best Pop Up Gazebos of 2024

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The Best Pop Up Gazebos

MasterCanopy Durable Ez Pop up Gazebo Review
  1. Best value pop up gazebo - MasterCanopy Durable Ez Pop-up Gazebo

  2. best heavy duty pop up gazebo - All Seasons Heavy Duty Pop Up Gazebo

  3. Best pop up gazebo with sides - ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo With Side Panels and Door

  4. Best design - Alvantor Pop Up Gazebo Screen House

  5. best waterproof pop up gazebo - ABCCANOPY Fully Waterproof Pop Up Gazebo

  6. Best budget pop up gazebo - ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo Commercial Gazebo

  7. Best for events - Dawsons Living Waterproof Premium Garden Gazebo

Pop Up Gazebo Reviews

MOST POPULAR
  • Has a high-quality steel frame that will last the years
  • Comes with a thick and sturdy canopy that holds steady in the wind
  • The canopy has a vent in the roof, which helps with stability in windy conditions
  • Having 3 different height settings to choose from makes this gazebo more versatile
  • Comes with four weight bags that can be filled with sand to improve the gazebo’s stability in windy weather
  • Collapses down into a compact size and fits neatly into the provided carry/roller bag, making storage and transportation easy
  • Very reasonably priced - great value for money!
  • Available in different sizes and colours

  • It’s difficult to set this gazebo up on your own - having someone to help makes the task much easier
  • Wouldn’t be able to withstand very strong winds (but then no pop-up gazebo would!)
Colour Options
9 Colors
Shade Size
3x3m
Material
Polyester fabric
Weight
15.08 kg
Water Resistant
Yes
UV Protection
Yes
Sidewalls
No
Overall Score 4.6Read In-depth Review
Design
4.5
Ease of Assembly
4.5
Weatherproofing
5
Stability
4.5
Value for Money
4.5

With promises of being easy to set up, sturdy, and weatherproof, the MasterCanopy Durable EZ Pop-Up Gazebo certainly looks appealing at first glance. To find out how it really fares in various conditions, I put this product to the test on my windy Scottish farm.

MasterCanopy claims that setting this gazebo up takes just one minute, but I’d recommend setting aside at least 15 minutes, plus two people, for the task. Although the frame is already assembled, positioning the canopy over the top is a fiddly task, followed by extending the legs and then securing the gazebo to the ground.

MasterCanopy-Durable-Ez-Pop-up-Gazebo-Review-assembly

However, your assembly efforts will be rewarded – this gazebo certainly looks the part. It’s sleek and modern, with a sturdy steel frame and a thick polyester canopy. There are three heights to choose from – 81”, 77”, and 73.2” – making it versatile enough for so many different purposes, whether you’re having a garden party or need some shade at a music festival. You can also choose from various size and colour options – mine was 3x3m but there are smaller versions available.

MasterCanopy-Durable-Ez-Pop-up-Gazebo-Review-erect

Although the canopy is waterproof, it wouldn’t keep you dry in a downpour, especially since this gazebo has open sides. However, it’ll certainly do the job in a light shower, and you could always purchase sides for it if you needed better rain protection. If sun is your problem, then you’ll love the shade provided by this gazebo, along with the UV-blocking layer in its canopy.

If you only have light winds to deal with, then this gazebo will remain safely secure and stable, thanks to the four guy ropes that keep it attached to the ground and the weight bags that hold it steady. I set it up in a very exposed spot on my hilly Scottish farm, and it wasn’t until wind speeds reached over 40km/h that I felt concerned enough to take it down. However, put it somewhere a little more protected and it’ll no doubt stay standing in much worse conditions.

MasterCanopy-Durable-Ez-Pop-up-Gazebo-Review-stability

This gazebo is a high-quality product that comes with a mid-range price tag, making it great value. Its thoughtful design and durable materials will see it through the years. Even if it’s something that you’ll only use occasionally, it would still be a great investment. What helps to add even more value is the carry bag that comes with it. Complete with various handles and wheels, the gazebo folds neatly and easily away into this compact bag – it’s a convenience that’s worth paying for.

MasterCanopy-Durable-Ez-Pop-up-Gazebo-Review-carry-bag-with-wheels

Some gazebos are better suited to campgrounds, others have been designed for gardens, and you’ll also find some with professional usage in mind. The MasterCanopy Durable EZ Pop-Up Gazebo would meet all of those requirements and more. It has an incredibly versatile design, is made from high-quality materials, and is stable enough to withstand relatively poor weather conditions. For a pop-up gazebo, you really couldn’t ask for more.

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HEAVY DUTY

2. All Seasons Heavy Duty Pop Up Gazebo

best heavy duty pop up gazebo

best pop up gazebo All Seasons Heavy Duty Pop Up Gazebo
  • Canopy is completely waterproof
  • Robust metal frame is not susceptible to rust
  • Very easy to take down and put away in the included carry bag
  • Large range of different colours available

  • Requires at least two people for assembly, but is easier with three or four people
  • No side walls means rain can get in horizontally
  • Not very easy to persuade back into the transport bag after use
Colour Options
11 Colors
Shade Size
3x3m
Material
Polyester fabric
Weight
21 kg
Water Resistant
Yes
UV Protection
Yes
Sidewalls
No
Overall Score 4.6
Design
4.5
Ease of Assembly
5
Weatherproofing
5
Stability
4
Value for Money
4.5

With a name like ‘All Seasons’ you can pretty much guess what you’re getting with this Pop Up Gazebo. If you’re after something that’s going to successfully keep the rain out and not keel over at the slightest breeze, this is a good option to consider.

It has a rust-resistant steel frame that’s been powder coated, and a heavyweight 260 g/m² polyester canopy. There are four leg-weight bags included as well, to help keep the gazebo in place, along with guy rope and tent pegs. It also comes with a large carry bag that makes transportation and storage more straight forward.

To erect this gazebo, you simply pull the legs out, and raise it to the right height – there are a choice of three height settings and the lowest option can be useful to give more stability on slightly windier days. Whilst it’s relatively simple to put up, two or three people are still required for assembly.

There is a choice of 17 different colours to choose from, which is a lot more than the majority of gazebos, and it can be matched to any garden furniture or themes to help it become a complementary feature in the garden.

Whilst this is one of the best pop up gazebos for use in all weather, it still needs to be used responsibly and taken down if there is a lot of wind. Also, unlike some other gazebos featured here it does not have any side ‘walls’, which means that rain is still able to come in horizontally.

Nevertheless, its 3 x 3 m size is suitable for fitting a six-person dining set and keeping anyone sheltered underneath during the majority of UK weather. It can also be erected on hard surfaces, as long as sufficient weights are used.

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WITH SIDES

3. ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo With Side Panels and Door

Best pop up gazebo with sides

best pop up gazebo ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo With Side Panels and Door
  • Relatively sturdy and fully waterproof - stays strong in windy weather and heavy rain
  • Wheeled carry bag makes it easy to transport from your home or garden shed
  • Assembly is very straightforward and with an extra pair of hands can be done in 10 minutes
  • Panels connect together with a combination of velcro and zips which seems durable and well reinforced
  • Three height settings - lowest setting can be used for sit down dinners and highest for standing

  • No adjustable sliders on the guy ropes - just four pieces of cord
  • Not a lot of pegs provided to hold down the feet
  • In windy weather, the panels can be very noisy
Colour Options
23 Colors
Shade Size
3x3m
Material
Polyester fabric
Weight
23.95 kg
Water Resistant
Yes
UV Protection
Yes
Sidewalls
Yes
Overall Score 4.6
Design
4.5
Ease of Assembly
5
Weatherproofing
5
Stability
4.5
Value for Money
4

The ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo With Side Panels and Door is suitable for a variety of uses such as commercial events, camping and entertaining at home. This is because there are a variety of sizes available (2.5 x 2.5 m, 3 x 3 m, 3 x 4.5 m and 3 x 6 m) as well as the option to have three or four sides in place.

The gazebo can be put together in several ways, depending on how you want to use it. It can be used with just the waterproof roof, with three sides and an open front, or with four sides and a closed front (with a door panel). Three sides can be used to aerate the gazebo and allow for easy access under the canopy, or four sides to offer better protection from the elements. This makes it one of the best pop up gazebos for entertaining guests, as well as using for small commercial purposes.

The sides are easy to connect together, using velcro and zips, and the door can either be rolled up, or zipped closed, depending on conditions.

Able to be installed at three different heights, this gazebo is suitable for a variety of events. It’s quite a lot taller than other gazebos, such as the MasterCanopy that’s also featured on this page.

If you’re hosting a dinner party, opt for the middle 327 cm height. If your guests are predominantly going to be standing, the 335 cm height is perfect, and the shorter height, 315 cm is great for camping.

Thanks to the pop up design, this gazebo is very easy to get set up. With an extra pair of hands, it can be done in around 10 minutes. The auto slider button allows for quick lock and release. There’s also a bag with wheels, so it can be moved to the right location with relative ease.

Onto weatherproofing and stability: this gazebo is made from 100% waterproof fabric and it’s also UV coated to reflect 99% of the sun’s rays. The velcro keeps the canopy stuck to the frame on very windy days, while the inside corners are reinforced to prevent tearing. It feels thick and good quality, protecting well from the elements, including heavy rain. Additionally, many customers have reported finding this gazebo to be sturdy even in very windy weather.

Overall, this gazebo is a great option for those who want a little more shelter than the open sided gazebos offer. Giving the option of using three or four sides, it’s protective and versatile.

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  • Unique contemporary pod-style design
  • Fits over a table and four chairs so great for keeping bugs away whilst dining in the summer
  • Mesh sides prevent the interior from getting too hot
  • Roof has UPF 50+ rating, provides shade from overhead fun
  • Very quick to set up - ‘pops’ into shape

  • Can collapse in stronger winds
  • Need to take care when assembly as springs into shape very quickly - children and pets should be kept away
  • Not waterproof because of mesh side
Colour Options
Beige
Shade Size
3x3m
Material
Fabric
Weight
3.99 kg
Water Resistant
Yes
UV Protection
Yes
Sidewalls
Yes
Overall Score 4.3
Design
5
Ease of Assembly
4.5
Weatherproofing
3.5
Stability
4.5
Value for Money
4

Designed primarily for the summer months, the Alvantor Pop Up Gazebo Screen House has full-length mesh sides and comes in a range of sizes. It looks similar to those ‘domes’ that restaurants use for outdoor seating, but with netted sides. The overall look is contemporary and stylish.

Unlike other gazebos on this page, this model is not waterproof. It’s designed instead for the summer months, with mesh sides that keep bugs away whilst allowing air to flow. It’s perfect for hosting evening dinners in the summer without mosquitoes spoiling the fun. The 10 x 10 ft (3 x 3 m) size fits over a 4-person dining table and chairs set. There are two large entrance doors that can be rolled up, and the frame even has hooks for hanging coats or bag!

This mesh gazebo is very easy to put up and take down. No tools are required as the fibreglass ribs pop open with limited force required. They open quite quickly, so be prepared and make sure the area is clear. After use, it folds into a compact carry bag with a diameter of just 1 m and weighs just under 4 kg. It’s easy to carry in and out of storage.

As mentioned, whilst this gazebo isn’t intended for rainy weather, it’s well suited for the summer. The roof provides UPF 50+ UV protection, so it offers good shade from overhead sun – sunlight can still get through the sides though.

The gazebo comes with six sandbags, 12 guylines and 12 solid stakes for stability. It withstands breezy weather well, but should be taken down in higher winds.

All in all, this is one of the best pop up gazebos for the summer months. The unique pod-style design looks modern and will be an attractive addition to the garden. It’s perfect for keeping bugs away and offering protection from the sun without getting too hot.

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5. ABCCANOPY Fully Waterproof Pop Up Gazebo

best waterproof pop up gazebo

best pop up gazebo ABCCANOPY Fully Waterproof Pop Up Gazebo
  • Fully waterproof - able to withstand torrential rain and windy weather
  • Can be set up in around 20 minutes with an extra pair of hands
  • Comes with four weight bags included
  • Storage bag comes with wheels which makes the 20 kg weight more manageable
  • Strong powder-coated frame remains structurally strong in bad weather

  • Large and bulky when folded up - takes up quite a lot of space in storage
  • Colour may fade is exposed to a lot of sunlight
Colour Options
23 Colors
Shade Size
3x3m
Material
Polyester fabric
Weight
21.77 kg
Water Resistant
Yes
UV Protection
Yes
Sidewalls
No
Overall Score 4.3
Design
4
Ease of Assembly
4
Weatherproofing
5
Stability
4.5
Value for Money
4

Available in a huge range of bright colours, the ABCCANOPY Fully Waterproof Pop Up Gazebo is a great option for those looking for a weather resistant canopy in a particular shade.

This gazebo measures 3 x 3 m, although other sizes are available. There are three adjustable height settings: 342 cm, 335 cm and 325 cm. It’s perfect for garden parties, camping, festivals and more. Each leg can be adjusted individually, so it’s perfect if you have uneven ground or need to position two legs on decking and two legs off.

There are 23 colours to choose from overall, so whether you have a favourite colour, or just want something that fits with the scheme of your garden, there will be viable options. One of the only downsides of this gazebo is that some of the brighter colours are more prone to fading in the sunlight over time.

Although heavy, at 20 kg, this gazebo arrives in a wheeled bag that allows it to be wheeled to the right location. The push-lock technology means that one person can set it up in a few minutes, although an extra pair of hands will make the process easier.

This is one of the best pop up gazebos for use in all weather. It has a 600 denier polyester canopy with a PU lining which makes it fully waterproof. It also has a UPF rating of 50+, meaning it can block 99.9% of all UV rays. The seams are heat sealed for durability.

This gazebo also has good wind resistance. It comes with weight bags, stakes and ropes included and the framework is stable and of good quality. The legs are made from commercial-grade 30 mm black powder-coated metal which gives them both rust resistance and stability.

Overall, this gazebo offers good shelter from a range of different weather, providing good protection from both rain and sun. Plus, it is also able to remain reasonably stable in slightly windier weather.

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6. ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo Commercial Gazebo

Best budget pop up gazebo

best pop up gazebo ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo Commercial Gazebo
  • Sturdy in heavy rain, wind and hail
  • Height can be raised and lowered using the push buttons
  • Range of stylish and understated colours available which look good in most gardens
  • At 2.5 x 2.5 m, it has a relatively spacious interior but it can be used in compact areas
  • Easy and quick to pack away when necessary

  • Frame is fairly stiff to open
  • Water can pool on the top of the canopy and need pushing off
Colour Options
8 Colors
Shade Size
2.5x2.5m
Material
Nylon
Weight
13.72 kg
Water Resistant
Yes
UV Protection
Yes
Sidewalls
No
Overall Score 3.9
Design
4
Ease of Assembly
4
Weatherproofing
4
Stability
4
Value for Money
3.5

Measuring 2.5 x 2.5 m, the ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo Commercial Gazebo is a good choice for smaller areas. It also comes in 2 x 2 m, and 3 x 3 m sizes.

This gazebo has a spacious interior, and there are three adjustable heights to choose from. It doesn’t have sides, which gives it good stability in strong winds and helps keep you cool in the warmer months. It’s suitable for parties, outdoor sports, picnics, BBQs and beach trips!

Easy to set up in just a few minutes, this gazebo has button leg adjustments to keep your fingers from getting pinched, and thumb press buttons to adjust the height. Although assembly can be done single handedly, an extra pair of hands will shorten the process, particularly as the frame can be a little stiff to open at first.

A great option for summer parties, this gazebo has two air vents that allow air to circulate within. The roof is coated with silver, allowing it to reflect up to 99% of the sun’s rays and providing useful shade.

Even when the weather isn’t quite so good, this gazebo still performs well. Reinforced stress points ensure the frame is long lasting, and there are four weight bags included, as well as stakes and ropes. According to ABCCANOPY it’s been built to withstand winds of up to 50 km/h, and in practice it does seem to withstand heavy wind reasonably well.

It’s also very easy to put away after use, so if the weather starts to get more turbulent it can simply be packed into its carry bag.

Although it’s a little pricier than even some larger gazebos, this model is stylish and durable. If you’re looking for a more compact, yet hard wearing, model, this is one of the best pop up gazebos to consider.

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  • Easy to put up in around 10 minutes and fold away after use
  • Comes in its own carry case with wheels for easy transportation
  • Weighted bags included which can be filled with water to weigh the gazebo down in windy weather
  • Offers a good balance between price and quality

  • Some of the fixings are made from plastic whereas they would be metal on more premium gazebos
  • Shouldn’t be used in very windy weather as the frame may break or bend
  • Rain pools in the roof during heavy rainfall and the weight of this can cause damage
  • Not UV resistant so the colour fades under strong sunlight
Colour Options
Beige
Shade Size
3x3m
Material
Oxford, Polyvinyl
Weight
26 kg
Water Resistant
Yes
UV Protection
Yes
Sidewalls
Yes
Overall Score 4.1
Design
4
Ease of Assembly
4.5
Weatherproofing
4
Stability
3
Value for Money
5

This Dawsons Living Waterproof Premium Garden Gazebo is a good value option for those looking to keep costs down without ending up with a low-quality product. The gazebo measures 3 x 3 m and comes in three different colours: Stone Grey, Beige or Green.

Design-wise, this gazebo is simple and stylish. It doesn’t have sides, so it’s a good option for summer, and the legs are adjustable to three different heights. The tallest option is 280 cm which is reasonably high.

Designed to be assembled by just one person, this gazebo simply pops into place. It can be put up in around 10 minutes, with no poles or tools required. It’s easy to adjust the height settings, and it comes with a wheeled carry bag for transportation. The wheels make it easier to manoeuvre the 17 kg weight of this gazebo.

You’ll be pleased to know that the lower price tag of this gazebo does not result in a poor-quality item, but it’s still best to avoid using it in inclement weather, particularly if there’s a lot of wind.

The metal frame stands up well to normal use and it does come with four detachable leg weight bags included. There are also eight guy ropes along with four ground stakes.

The roof material is fully waterproof so offers good protection during events like those inevitably-drizzly summer BBQs. It’s made from PVC-coated fabric and the poles are rust resistant. The fabric also has a UPF rating of 50 so protects against the sun,  although the colour of the gazebo is prone to  fading over time. Rain can also pool on the top, so maintenance will be required to push it off. For this reason, during heavy rainfall, it’s a good idea to bring the gazebo inside.

Given its price and design, this is one of the best pop up gazebos to buy if you’re after value for money. It may not be quite as sturdy as more expensive models, but it still offers a good deal of protection from the weather.

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Product Tester

Gardening Expert

Alina's Smart Buying Tips

  1. For most standard gardens, a 3 x 3 m (10 x 10 ft) gazebo will be ideal. This is large enough to accommodate a six-person dining set and is therefore a great option for entertaining.
  2. If you want a gazebo that will allow more peace of mind when hosting, look for a PU waterproof coating. Not all gazebos are fully waterproof, so check for a plastic coating to be sure. Otherwise, thick polyester canopies will generally at least offer showerproofing.
  3. Alternatively, if you’re feeling confident about the sunny weather, you might want to choose a gazebo with UPF sun protection – not all gazebo canopies will successfully block UV rays otherwise, even if they’re a dark colour.
  4. If you want a more protected shelter, get a gazebo with sides. However, enclosed gazebos can get stuffy on warm days, so make sure the sides are removable. Air vents can help circulate air and prevent billowing, no matter which style gazebo you go for.
  5. Ideally, look for a gazebo with sand weights included as well as guy ropes and pegs. This makes life a lot easier when it comes to securing the gazebo in place and offers peace of mind.  One final thing to look out for is a carry bag for the shelter. Although not strictly necessary, this is immensely useful for keeping the gazebo clean and everything all in one place.

I’ve recommended the MasterCanopy Durable Ez Pop-up Gazebo as my top choice. This gazebo is large enough to comfortably fit six people and is easy to put up. It also comes with sand bags (unfilled!) included.

Compare Product Features

Use the dropdown to sort the table by the feature you want to see.

  • MasterCanopy Durable Ez Pop-up Gazebo
    best pop up gazebo MasterCanopy Durable Ez Pop up Gazebo
    • 4.6
    • 9 Colors
    • 3x3m
    • Polyester fabric
    • 15.08 kg
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • No
  • All Seasons Heavy Duty Pop Up Gazebo
    best pop up gazebo All Seasons Heavy Duty Pop Up Gazebo
    • 4.6
    • 11 Colors
    • 3x3m
    • Polyester fabric
    • 21 kg
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • No
  • ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo With Side Panels and Door
    best pop up gazebo ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo With Side Panels and Door
    • 4.6
    • 23 Colors
    • 3x3m
    • Polyester fabric
    • 23.95 kg
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • Yes
  • Alvantor Pop Up Gazebo Screen House
    best pop up gazebo Alvantor Pop Up Gazebo Screen House
    • 4.3
    • Beige
    • 3x3m
    • Fabric
    • 3.99 kg
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • Yes
  • ABCCANOPY Fully Waterproof Pop Up Gazebo
    best pop up gazebo ABCCANOPY Fully Waterproof Pop Up Gazebo
    • 4.3
    • 23 Colors
    • 3x3m
    • Polyester fabric
    • 21.77 kg
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • No
  • ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo Commercial Gazebo
    best pop up gazebo ABCCANOPY Pop Up Gazebo Commercial Gazebo
    • 3.9
    • 8 Colors
    • 2.5x2.5m
    • Nylon
    • 13.72 kg
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • No
  • Dawsons Living Waterproof Premium Garden Gazebo
    best pop up gazebo Dawsons Living Waterproof Premium Garden Gazebo
    • 4.1
    • Beige
    • 3x3m
    • Oxford, Polyvinyl
    • 26 kg
    • Yes
    • Yes
    • Yes

How to Choose The Best Pop Up Gazebo

Size of Gazebo

The size of the gazebo is important for two main reasons:

  • It will affect how many people can fit under the canopy
  • It will dictate where the structure will go in your garden (or if it will fit at all!)

If you have a specific purpose in mind for your pop up gazebo, for example if you know you’re going to want to fit a table in there for meals, measuring the items that you want to put in the space will help you work out how big a gazebo to buy.

As a rough guide, hexagonal gazebos which measure approximately 3 m across can generally fit one round central dining table with six chairs.

Height is also important, and isn’t always the first thing you think about when buying a gazebo! The crucial thing is how high the eaves are, and not the total height of the gazebo. The height to the eaves will be the headroom. Standard head room in gazebos is 2 m, but this can differ between models.

Additionally, several pop up gazebos are height adjustable, like the MasterCanopy Durable Ez Pop-up Gazebo; in these instances you’ll be able to choose the height that makes sense depending on the day. When there’s more of a breeze, some people like to have the gazebo adjusted to a lower height.

One final note about gazebo size: it’s a good idea to thoroughly check that it will fit in the garden (even if you’re pretty certain that it will) – sometimes gazebos can be surprisingly large! Measure the space you have available and consider marking it out so that you can visualise where the gazebo will go. It may be better to size down and have some wiggle room, rather than try to cram a bigger gazebo into your garden.

Although laborious, taking the time to measure everything first will save money and time in the long run.

The shape of the gazebo can also affect how well it fits into the garden, and the garden furniture it can hold. More on that in the next section.

READ NEXT: The Best Sun Shade Sail

Choosing the Right Style

When it comes to pop up gazebos, there are a few different shapes to choose from. The most common shapes are square, rectangular and hexagonal. Each of which have their pros and cons.

There are other features to consider as well. The gazebo may have walls, or not, or windows (or not!). And some gazebos have several entrances or mesh sides.

Here we’ll have a look at these points in more detail:

Shape

Square gazebos are highly practical and are one of the best shapes to suit people standing and mingling. The space lends itself well to everyone being equidistant and able to have a conversation together.  They’re good for smaller gardens as their shape is more compact, and they can slot into corners, but they may not have as high a capacity as other styles. It can be more difficult to fit a rectangular dining table in the centre of a square gazebo, but it can still work depending on the dimensions.

Rectangular gazebos often work well in gardens because they’re the same shape as the space. Additionally, they can be a good way to cover an entire patio. People might be positioned further away from each other than in a square gazebo, but you can often fit a rectangular dining table in the space (with sufficient space for people to move around). Rectangular gazebos are also good for having food-serving tables inside or a buffet.

Hexagonal gazebos are sociable because people can all sit around a central round table. That said, a hexagon is a more difficult shape to slot into the garden, and may not maximise ground area. It’s also quite difficult to fit a rectangular serving table at the side of a hexagonal gazebo, so they’re best for sitting in the middle.

Wall Type

What would you like to use your gazebo for? Depending on your intentions, different wall styles will be more appropriate. Some gazebos are most appropriate as a sun shade in hot weather, whereas others offer an ideal place for parties, rain or shine.

Some gazebos don’t come with side walls. These are best suited to being used as sun shades. Their canopies may still be waterproof/showerproof but they won’t have any protection from the wind (or from rain blowing in sideways). Gazebos without sides are ideal for offering protection on warm days.

Netted sides offer some protection from the elements, and are a great way to keep a breeze flowing through the gazebo. Of course, depending on the climate you may not want constant ventilation – so bear that in mind! Netting is also great for keeping out bugs.

If you’re hoping to host a gathering, no matter the weather, you’ll likely benefit from a gazebo with protective sides. These can be closed around you and your guests if the weather takes a turn. Avoid sides made of netting and look into more structurally solid sides which perhaps have windows built in.

Finally, there are gazebos with detachable sides that offer the best of both worlds. These gazebos can be used as just a canopy when shade is required, with the walls being added on when the temperature drops in the evening.

Weatherproofing

How weatherproof the gazebo is can depend on many factors. As seen in the previous section, it partly depends on how many sides the gazebo has and what they are made from.

It can also depend on the material of the gazebo itself.

Sun Protection

Firstly, if you want a gazebo that will provide adequate shade, look for one that has a UV-resistant coating and will block UV rays. Some canopies will have a UPF rating, which is the best way to know exactly how much protection is offered. For example, if a fabric has UPF 30 – 39 it’s considered to offer very good protection. UPF 50+ is considered excellent protection.

If protection from the sun is the most important thing to you, look for a UPF rating. If fabric states that it is ‘UV resistant’, it should block some rays but won’t be clear how much. Some fabric canopies will create shade, but won’t have any specific protection against UV, so you could still get sunburnt whilst sitting under them.

Waterproofing

Most gazebos are at least ‘showerproof’, but you should check with the manufacturer if you’re not sure.

A showerproof gazebo will protect from light drizzle but it will not keep heavier rain out. Gazebos that are ‘water resistant’ should be impermeable to heavy rain.

Often, it’s difficult to know exactly how much protection a gazebo will offer from the rain until it’s erected in the garden and put to the test. No matter its waterproof rating.

However, this is where internet reviews can come into their own. If you’re considering a specific gazebo, be sure to check out what customers have said online first. Getting first-hand feedback on a product is really useful; it allows you to get a feel for the product, without testing it yourself.

Wind Protection

As previously mentioned, gazebos with sides (not netted sides) will stop it from being too breezy inside.

Of course, gazebos shouldn’t be used in high winds, so we’re talking about protection from a light breeze instead of gale-force gusts.

A lot of the best pop up gazebos come with fillable sand bags, as well as tent pegs and guy ropes to secure it in place. If the gazebo doesn’t come with these, they should be purchased separately. Even if it isn’t at all breezy when you put the gazebo up, it should always be secured down properly, just in case.

Some gazebos have smaller doorways that can be opened, instead of having to open a whole side in order to let people in and out. This can reduce the amount of cold air that comes in and keep it warmer inside the gazebo. Something that can be especially welcome as evening rolls around.

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