How Much Does It Cost to Build a Gazebo?

Gazebos are stand-alone structures typically added to decks or yards for the purpose of enjoying the outdoors. Always round or octagonal in shape, a gazebo has a finished roof and floor, as well as the ability to have finished or screened walls, providing users with shade and some protection from the elements while outside.

The cost to build a gazebo ranges between $7,500-$10,000, with the average homeowner paying $8,750 to build a 9 ft. screened cedar gazebo with a single roof​.

Gazebo Installation Cost

Gazebo Cost by Size

The size of the gazebo largely determines the final cost of the project. Smaller gazebos require fewer materials to build and are not normally subject to permit costs. Also, a smaller gazebo is quicker to build—meaning labor costs are automatically lowered. As an estimate, expect to pay between $75 and $100 per square foot ¹ for a gazebo project.

Gazebo Cost by Material

The most common material for a gazebo to be constructed from is wood, with tropical hardwoods ² lasting the longest and needing the least maintenance. However, vinyl ³ gazebo kits are also available, which can last up to twice as long. Any type of building materials traditionally used for gazebos include:

Wrought Iron Gazebo

Wrought iron is one of the least expensive materials for building a gazebo. It is also very long lasting, which makes it one of the most popular choices among homeowners. However, it is more open and offers less protection against weather than other materials. Also, there are not many style and design options for this material. It costs around $3,000.

Brick Gazebo

Surprisingly enough, brick gazebos are one of the most cost-effective options available. The cost of the materials to build the gazebo on-site is low with the total project estimated around $3,200. Brick gazebos are long-lasting and require very little homeowner maintenance.

Aluminium Gazebo

With an aluminium gazebo, you’ll have fewer style options to choose from, but you will be selecting a material that’s long-lasting and weather-resistant. Expect to pay around $4,500 to install an aluminium gazebo in your yard space.

Bamboo Gazebo

Bamboo gazebos have an attractive price point, but are not well known for their durability. Any type of bamboo structure can develop cracks and structural changes over time due to prolonged moisture exposure. Bamboo gazebos are one of the less expensive options with prices around $4,600.

Pine Gazebo

Pine is a very inexpensive material which comes in many design options. It does require quite a bit of maintenance work and it will not last as long as other materials, such as vinyl ³. Pine gazebos cost around $4,800.

Iron Cast Gazebo

If you choose an iron cast gazebo, you’re going to have to select from a very traditional style. Iron cast gazebos are elegant with a timeless style, but are not usually made available in modern designs. Iron cast gazebos have high durability with low maintenance requirements. The average price of an iron cast gazebo is $5,300.

Red Cedar Gazebo

Red cedar is an aromatic wood that can be very long lasting. It does require some maintenance, such as staining. Cost average $6,000.

Vinyl Gazebo

Vinyl is a very long lasting material which requires little maintenance. It’s more expensive than other options and it usually has fewer design options. It usually costs around $6,800 to build a vinyl gazebo.

Steel Gazebo

Steel gazebos are highly durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions. There is very little maintenance to perform when you install a steel gazebo. Expect to pay around $7,000 for a steel gazebo.

Reinforced Concrete Gazebo

Reinforced concrete is usually only chosen for permanent structures in a yard space. Reinforced concrete provides all-weather protection and is one of the most durable materials on the market. With this in mind, reinforced gazebos have the highest expense and cost upwards of $10,000 to build.

Gazebo Prices by Shape

By definition, a gazebo is a structure with a roof and a floor that is round in shape. However, there are some variations on that theme, which can give you a few types to choose from.

Fully Round Gazebo

Fully round gazebos are popular as a fully open structure, with no sides but columns supporting the roof. The average cost of a fully round gazebo is $3,000.

Oval Gazebo

Oval gazebos are a twist on the open, round gazebo and also cost around $3,000.

Rectangular Gazebo

Rectangular gazebos are not technically gazebos, but fall under the category of garden structure. They may or may not have floors, and are generally a little less expensive to build, with costs starting around $3,000.

Hexagonal Gazebo

Hexagonal gazebos are slightly more angular in shape than traditional round gazebo types, but can make an attractive design. The average cost is around $5,000.

Octagonal Gazebo

Octagonal gazebos are nearly as popular as round. They make it easier to screen or glass in the structure, while retaining a mostly round shape. The average cost is around $5,000 for a standard octagonal gazebo.

Dodecahedron Gazebo

Dodecahedron gazebos are made of 12 sides, and can be very expensive to build, often costing more than three times what a round gazebo will, with most costs starting around $10,000.

Walled Gazebo

Walled gazebos are a custom structure with six to eight sides that have full walls with windows. They can be insulated for year round use, but often cost up to three times what an open gazebo will cost, with most starting around $10,000.

Labor Cost to Build a Gazebo

Labor makes up the bulk of the cost of the gazebo. While the materials for a gazebo may run $1,500 to $3,000, the labor will run around $7,000 for a 9 foot ¹ 3 gazebo with double roof, partial walls, and screens. Expect to pay a carpenter around $70 an hour, while an electrician may be needed at $65-$85 an hour if running lights to the structure.

Gazebo Floor Cost by Material

The floor of your gazebo can be constructed of wood, particularly if having the rest of the structure built of wood as well, usually with only $100 to $200 being added to the final costs. However, there are many other types of flooring to consider for your gazebo as well.

Wood Gazebo Floor Cost

Wood flooring is the least expensive way to add a solid floor to your gazebo. Floorboards are screwed down to provide a wood decking base for your gazebo. Estimate between $250 and $350 for wood flooring.

Composite Decking Gazebo Floor Cost

Composite decking is a low maintenance material that works well with vinyl ³ gazebos. However, there are not many style or color options and maintenance might be a bit harder than other materials, since it may swell with moisture. It usually costs around $600 to $900.

Brick Gazebo Floor Cost

Brick is a very low maintenance and attractive material. Many people choose it because of the aesthetics, but some considerations must be taken into account, such as its high price and the fact that the yard may require some leveling ⁴ before installing brick. It will cost around $2,000-$4,000 to install brick flooring in your gazebo.

Patio Pavers Gazebo Floor Cost

If you choose to have patio pavers in your gazebo, you’ll have the opportunity to match your existing patio nearby. However, it may turn out to be an expensive material, and, similar to brick, it may require yard leveling first. Costs run at $27,000-$4,200 for concrete patio pavers.

Stamped Concrete Gazebo Floor Cost

With stamped concrete, you can match your existing patio flooring. Besides, it requires low maintenance and easy cleaning, although it may be a bit expensive. Like brick and patio pavers, it may require leveling. It usually costs $3,000 to $4,400 to install stamped concrete flooring in your gazebo.

Gazebo Roofing Cost by Material

Gazebos are roofed structures, which makes up a large portion of both the cost and the labor of constructing the gazebo. There are several different styles for roofs, as well as different roofing options. Like any building, a gazebo can be covered with any type of roofing material. In most cases, you may want to match the type of shingle ⁵ already on your house for the most cohesive appearance.

Gazebo roofs are generally constructed into a single or double roof. Double roofs do increase costs by about $2,000 over the cost of a single roof. Most gazebos will only require one square of roofing material, or 100 square feet. Roofing options to consider include:

Shingle Roof Gazebo

Roof shingles are overlapping pieces that provide weather protection for structures like a gazebo. Asphalt ⁶ shingles ⁵ are the least expensive option for gazebo roofs. Composite shingles cost slightly more, but are better suited for regions with unpredictable weather conditions. Asphalt shingles are around $80 to $100 per square while composite shingles have prices around $110 to $115 per square.

Tile Roof Gazebo

When you choose tin as a roofing material for your gazebo, you’re selecting a rolled steel underlay ⁷ with a top coat of tin. Tin roofs are long-lasting and considered an environmentally-friendly choice, but the material can dent easily. Tile pricing is $110 to $117 per square.

Wood Roof Gazebo

Wood shakes ⁸ are one of the most popular choices for roofing materials when planning out a gazebo. The wood roof style is very attractive and offers more design personalization than other roof material types. Wood shakes cost around $275 to $325 per square.

Metal Roof Gazebo

By choosing a metal roof, you’re selecting a durable material that can withstand high winds and wet weather conditions. However, a metal roof can also expand and contract during extreme heat and cold temperatures. A metal roof can also be noisy during poor weather conditions. Metal roofs have a cost of $300 to $350 per square while aluminum roofs have pricing at $350 to $400 per square.

Glass Roof Gazebo

A glass roof gazebo is the perfect choice for those looking to create an almost greenhouse look for their outdoor structure. Advantages of a glass roof is that they have a very modern look and can withstand wet weather conditions. Downsides include the high expense and the difficulty to clean the roof. A glass gazebo roof runs between $400 and $800 per square.

Polycarbonate Roof Gazebo

One of the latest roof material choices for a gazebo is polycarbonate ⁹. Polycarbonate is a type of thermoplastic material and has the benefit of being highly resistant to extreme weather conditions and any type of impacts. Budget anywhere from $600 to $1,000 per square for a polycarbonate roof.

Slate Roof Gazebo

Slate ¹⁰ is truly the gold standard in providing protection for your gazebo. Shingles ⁵ made from hard slate can last more than 100 years. Since the material is very durable, slate roofs are one of the most expensive to install. The expense is $1,000 to $2,000 per square for a slate roof.

Cost Factors to Build a Gazebo

Gazebos make wonderful additions to many yards and homes, but not every structure is going to be a perfect fit with your property. Before you begin building, make the following considerations:

• Location: will your gazebo be a part of a deck, or will it stand alone in the yard? How much sun will it see? Is there a threat of insect activity if too close to the woods?
• Size: what will you use the gazebo for? If for dining, it will need to be large enough to accommodate your table and chairs. If for entertaining, is there room for a band, chairs, or dancing? If for simply relaxing, does it have enough room for seating, coolers, and other accoutrements?
• Landscaping: you want your new gazebo to fit in well with your existing landscaping. For example, if you have garden paths, it could become a destination point. Or, if you have a wide open yard, you could make it a focal point or tuck it away beneath some trees if you prefer it not take center stage ¹¹.
• Style: your gazebo needs to at least coordinate with your home’s style, if not matching it exactly. If building from wood, consider matching the color of your home’s siding. Otherwise, consider things like the roofing or the shape of the windows to coordinate with your home’s architectural style.

Gazebo Installation

Gazebos are built like many structures including sheds, enclosures, and houses. A foundation or flooring is usually built first. If this is a wood flooring, concrete posts or slabs will be put down first to elevate the wood floor from the earth. Brick or paver-based floors will include leveling ⁴ the ground before putting down the flooring.

The basic walls or columns of the gazebo are put up next, followed by the roof. At this time, finishing materials are added including fence rails 4, screens, roofing materials, drywall ¹² if finishing the interior, and glass if creating windows.

If running electricity to the gazebo for lights or TV, this is done after the basic framing, but before finishing. A gazebo can be put up in as little as two weeks if using a basic frame without interior finishing, walls, or glass.

Gazebo Location

Gazebos can be placed nearly anywhere, which is one of their benefits. Many people choose to build a small gazebo right into their deck to offer a shady place to relax near their home. Others choose to build in their yard for a more retreat-like setting.

As you determine where to install your gazebo, consider the size and whether it will fit comfortably in that location without making it seem crowded. Consider also the path you will take to reach the gazebo, and whether or not it will be able to be viewed from the street or from your home.

Gazebo Design Plans

Gazebo kits are available both with sets of plans to build a gazebo from scratch or to purchase and put together on site. With the exception of the shape, which rarely changes from octagonal or round, gazebos can come in many different styles and sizes.

If having a deck built, your decking contractor can likely design a gazebo to match. Otherwise, you may want to engage the services of an architect (10%-17% of project cost) or draftsman ($100-$130 per hour) to draw up the plans for you, if you do not purchase a standard kit.

Cost to Build Screened Gazebo vs Open Gazebo

Gazebos are typically open structures with a roof. They may have a fence rail ¹³ around the perimeter or columns for support. In some cases they may also have full or partial walls.

Open gazebos tend to cost the least, simply because they use the least amount of material, often costing about $3,000 to $5,000 on average.

A screened gazebo or a walled gazebo with glass or screened windows will cost more, $5,000 to $10,000, but can offer protection from insects and in some instances also the weather, which can increase your enjoyment of the structure and how often you use it.

Pergola vs Gazebo Cost

Another outdoor structure that can enhance your property values is the pergola ¹⁴. Pergolas ¹⁴ are an open structure without a finished floor or roof. They may have a temporary or partial roof that can offer some shade, but are generally used to define an area or a space in the yard, versus gazebos, which are finished structures.

Pergolas ¹⁴ cost between $3,000 and $6,000 for a 9 foot structure, making them considerably less money than a gazebo, but they also offer less protection from the elements, as well as less versatility in use.

Pavilion vs Gazebo Cost

Although a pavilion is also an outdoor structure like a gazebo, there’s two key differences: pavilions have open sides and don’t have the flooring materials built-in ¹⁵. Gazebos are considered stand-alone structures while pavilions serve the purpose of providing shade and weather coverage to an outdoor seating area.

The average cost to build a pavilion is considerably less than a gazebo since fewer materials are needed to construct the structure. The average cost to build a 9 ft pavilion is around $3,500 while the cost to build the same size gazebo is around $7,500. Pavilion cost per square foot is approximately $35 to $40.

Gazebo Maintenance

The most pressing type of maintenance done on a gazebo is to keep the interior and roof clean of any dirt and debris. Remove branches, leaves, and any other fallen material from the roof on a quarterly basis. Gently clean the exterior and flooring of the gazebo using a garden hose. Remove difficult stains with mild soap and a soft-bristled scrub brush. If you own a wooden gazebo, apply a sealant every two years to protect the material from becoming weathered.

Gazebos do have a tendency to attract pests, including bee, wasp and hornet nests, so check for these pests regularly. Nest removal should be handled by a pest control professional and cost upwards of $200.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Gazebo Benches

Seating can be added to most gazebos as either built-in ¹⁵ benches or stand alone gazebo benches added after the structure is built. Expect to pay around $120 per bench.

Grillzebos

Grillzebos are becoming popular, combining a built-in ¹⁵ grill with a gazebo. Built-in grills cost around $6,000 extra to include, for a total cost of around $13,500.

Gazebo Hot Tub

Add a hot tub to the gazebo for a cost of around $3,500.

Gazebo Outdoor Lightning

Add outdoor lighting to the gazebo at a cost of around $3,800.

Gazebo Misting System

Keep you and your guests cool by installing a misting system that surrounds the interior of your gazebo. Add a gazebo misting system for an estimated cost of $1,000.

Gazebo Ceiling Fan

Gazebo ceiling fans are another upgrade to keep temperatures comfortable while relaxing outdoors. Add a gazebo ceiling fan for upwards of $700 including the price of the fan and installation. Prices increase if any electrical wiring is needed.

Gazebo Chandelier

Gazebo chandeliers add elegant outdoor lighting to your gazebo. Chandeliers can be simple designs or intricate styles made from premium materials. Expect to pay around $800 or more to install a gazebo chandelier. If you need any wiring completed, the price increases.

Gazebo Electrical Wiring

With electrical wiring, you can add lights, ceiling fans, televisions, stereo systems, and more to your gazebo. Add gazebo electrical wiring for approximately $1,900.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• In many areas, a gazebo will require a permit to build. Permit costs start around $430.
• Local building codes may dictate where on your property you can build the gazebo, as well as how large or tall the structure can be. Always check with your local city ordinances before beginning construction.
• DIY gazebo kits are available for costs starting around $1,500. However, it is generally recommended that even when using a kit, that you hire a professional to assemble.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Foot: A support for the foundation of a house that also helps prevent settling. It is typically made of concrete reinforced with rebar, but can also be made of masonry or brick. It is usually built under a heavier part of the house like a wall or column, to distribute the weight of the house over a larger area.

² Tropical hardwoods: Timber from deciduous, flowering, seed-bearing trees that grow in tropical rainforests

³ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

⁵ Shingle: A smooth, uniform, flat piece of construction material, available in a wide variety of materials and laid in a series of overlapping rows, used to cover the outside of roofs or walls to protect against weather damage and leaks.

⁶ Asphalt: A viscous, black mixture of hydrocarbons often used for roofing and waterproofing. It is also used in asphalt for paving roads

⁸ Shakes: A rugged flat piece of wooden construction material with at least one grain-split face, generally made of either redwood or cedar, laid in a series of overlapping rows and used to cover the outside of roofs and walls to protect against weather damage and leaks

¹⁰ Slate: A fine-grained rock, typically bluish-gray in color, that can easily be split into thin layers and is commonly used as a roofing material

¹¹ Stage: A temporary structure used during construction/maintenance/painting projects to raise and support workers (or one worker), required materials, and equipment

¹² Drywall: Type of plasterboard, commonly used to build walls and ceilings, composed of gypsum that is layered between sheets of heavy paper

¹⁴ Pergola: An arched structure with an open roof and cross rafters, supported by posts or columns, typically installed in a garden, park, or backyard and usually covered with climbing plants or vines.

¹⁵ Built-in: An item of furniture, such as a bookcase or set of cabinets, that is built directly into the structure of the room. Built-ins are therefore customized to the room and not detachable