Prairie Cedar Projects

Gazebos

Gazebos can be placed anywhere, either as a distant outdoor getaway or a nearby extension of the home. 

A gazebo provides the perfect place for dinner parties and weddings. It can function as a protected outdoor playroom for children or an area for adult socializing; even function as a retreat for quiet outdoor meditation.

Gazebos

A good size for couples is a 10′ diameter (hexagon) while 12′ and up (octagon) are better suited to whole families. For an all-season effect, doors and windows can be added; however, most gazebos remain open or screened for bugs.

If you choose to build a gazebo from the ground up, it is best to start by getting your hands on a good plan of a design you like. Most good plans will include lumber sizes, dimensions and a cut list, along with other helpful information for angles and compound cuts. This would be a great place to start.

As most gazebos are placed in freestanding positions, a concrete base is not essential. Many gazebos have integrated wooden floors for comfort. A 3-4″ crushed gravel base is often sufficient as foundation.

Two tier roofs are simple to add and have a great deal of curb appeal. Aim for a maximum of 2/3 coverage on the second tear roof while 3/12 is a good pitch. Cupolas, while intricate, can add another level of detail.

Fasteners: Using a good all weather construction adhesive in addition to coated wood screws will enhance lateral stability.

Layout: For flooring and roofing on hexagon or octagon structures, work from the outside in, one complete course at a time. Double check cross over measurements before you start. Misalignment at the start will affect the entire build.

Assembly: Starting with a hexagon or octagon core block can greatly simply your starting positions for both floor joists and hip rafter assembly.

Roof: Cutting a birds-mouth on each rafter where it mounts onto the plate will enhance accuracy in positioning and help anchor rafters more securely.

Lumber Care: Once you start construction, keep your wood building materials covered with a tarp, especially on hot sunny days. This makes a huge difference as it keeps your lumber straight & true!

No items found.
Gazebos
Southern Alberta’s Preferred Provider of

Cedar Building Projects

Prairie Cedar can help you pick out the best products & materials for any project.
View All Projects
You're In Good Company

Real People
Real Reviews.

The best product, helpful staff, informative and knowledgeable. Made our project deck truly beautiful

Pa Tait
Facebook Review

Friendly and knowledgeable staff, the quick drive out was well worth it. Don’t waste your time going to the regular lumber stores, the difference in quality is amazing. Head out to Prairie Cedar!!!

Mitchell Ponich
Facebook Review

Class Act. Professional, punctual delivery and A1 customer service.

PJ Davis
Facebook Review

The cedar here is the best in Southern Alberta. The guy at the front is very honest and open when giving info which I appreciate. So many places tell you what they think you want to hear. Its different here and thats what makes them great. Will shop here always.

john5563
YellowPages Review
View All Testimonials
Mother and daughter outside