Build a gazebo

A gazebo is a small building that adds to the landscape of a yard, often becoming its focal point. Its open and intricate lines bring an old-fashioned charm and a design element that enhances its surroundings and often becomes a favorite place for kids as well as adults.

There’s a wide range of prices because all gazebos are not created equal. You’ll find them made of cedar, pressure-treated wood and vinyl in a wide range of sizes, shapes and styles. Most are designed to be built on top of a floor of concrete slab or brick or on wooden decking. You’ll find them sold locally at home, lawn and garden centers.

You can buy the components of a ready-to-build gazebo with deck flooring for $4,575 and have it delivered to your property for a contractor or you to build. That includes a 10-foot octagonal-shaped cedar gazebo with a cupola, cedar shingles and pressure-treated foundation and floor. Add the cost of labor $1,075 for a total of $5,650. You can build it for $4,575 and save 19 percent on labor. The construction will take a long weekend, so it’s a major commitment of time and money that’s well worth the effort.

Check your property survey to make sure you locate the structure on your property and not your neighbor’s, and ask your local building department if a permit is required for the addition of a gazebo.

To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com on your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

Pro Cost -- DIY Cost -- Pro time -- DIY Time -- DIY Savings -- Percent Saved

$5,650 -- $4,575 -- 30.0 -- 47.5 -- $1,075 -- 19 Percent

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