The 5 best outdoor gazebos

Best outdoor gazebo overall

Pros: Heavy-duty, mosquito netting included, rust-resistant, doesn't fade easily, no special tools needed for assembly, meets CPAI-84 flame-resistant international safety standards

Cons: Assembly directions could be clearer, requires more than two people for final assembly

If you're looking for a garden gazebo that will last for more than one season, the Sojag Dakota Aluminum Gazebo with Galvanized Steel Roof Panels is a great buy.

Because I live in a state prone to hurricanes, I wanted a gazebo with a hard roof rather than canvas to withstand high winds. A steel roof provides complete shade and is easy to clean with a hose and power washer, too. Most notably, Sojag's heavy-duty aluminum frame and galvanized steel roof are powder-coated, rust-resistant, and the naturesque brown color doesn't fade.

The Sojag includes netting that runs on a two-track system, which is a huge plus for preventing mosquitoes from flying into your backyard lounge. The net's second track can also be used to add privacy curtains that can be purchased separately.

Though no special tools are required for assembly, the directions could be clearer and setup requires more than two people. Regardless, Sojag meets CPAI-84 flame-resistant international safety standards and its sturdy construction makes it our top pick.

Best fabric-topped gazebo

Pros: Weather- and rust-resistant, mosquito netting included, comes with chandelier hook, blocks 99% UV rays, sturdy frame, meets CPAI-84 flame-resistant international safety standards

Cons: Fabric doesn't withstand extreme weather conditions

To add a tropical cabana feel to your backyard, the Laurel Canyon Beige Soft Top Steel/Metal Outdoor Patio Gazebo is a durable and serene-looking option. Despite its fabric top design, it's weather-resistant and the powder-coated steel frame repels rust, too.

Like our top Sojag pick, Laurel Canyon is affixed with four mesh mosquito netting sidewalls which are CPI-84-certified flame resistant. The UV ray-blocking zippered screens also maintain good ventilation and a clear view outside the gazebo.

And, to amp up your outdoor space, the Laurel Canyon has a built-in hook to hang a chandelier.

Best wood-framed gazebo

Pros: Rust-resistant, comes with chandelier hook, powder-coated steel roof, offers UV protection,

Cons: Heavy to assemble, instructions aren't well-written, no mosquito netting

The natural cedar frame and the powder-coated black steel roof characteristic of Sunjoy's Cedar-Framed Gazebo make this outdoor pergola sharp. It's also UV-ray-protective, rust-resistant. With a center interior height of more than 8.5 feet and an entrance clearance of 6.5 feet, the shelter feels spacious.

The durable materials are perfect for an area that experiences much snowfall because they can bear up to 500 pounds of weight. And, the 10-foot-tall roof provides airflow and keeps the interior protected from the rain at the same time.

Once the gazebo was assembled, I added a battery-powered light to the center hook and it completed the look. Privacy curtains, netting, and light kits aren't included but can be added later.

Best budget gazebo

Pros: Includes canopy and matching mosquito net curtains, water-resistant, easy to assemble, rust-resistant frame, three colors available

Cons: Canopy isn't weatherproof, doesn't hold up well in high winds.

The Sol 72 Outdoors Lauderhill Steel Patio Gazebo is made from water-resistant polyester fabric and comes with mosquito netting curtains that zip closed to keep out insects. The powder-coated black steel frame is durable but lightweight enough for easy assembling and relocating. . The posts can be anchored to the ground with the included stakes or you can purchase bolts to make the structure more permanent on a concrete pad or deck.

The two-tiered canopy allows for airflow and is rated to accommodate winds up to 18-miles per hour. The size is perfect for playtime but still large enough for an adult gathering since the entrance height is around 6.6 feet and rises to near 10-feet in the center. While it is not wired for electrical lights, there is a hook at the center to support a battery-powered or candle-lit chandelier, too.

Since the gazebo is lightweight, I was able to assemble it in about two hours. With three colors to choose from — light brown, dark brown, and grey — you're sure to find the perfect match for your backyard.

Best portable gazebo

Pros: Only takes 45 seconds to set up, extra wide skirt to keep bugs out, water-resistant roof, included wind panels, fits up to four camping chairs inside, folds into the included storage bag

Cons: Not the most pleasing design, may be difficult to see outside of the gazebo, short folks may have trouble setting it up alone

When camping, you may not want to assemble a tent. For a sheltered option that only takes 45 seconds to pop up with elastic and velcro strap attachments, the Clam Outdoors Quick-Set Portable Outdoor Gazebo has a water-resistant roof, is affordable, and will keep pesky bugs, leaves, and the like outside — thanks to its extra-wide skirt.

Inside, It can fit four camping chairs nicely and the sides can be partially opened for more ventilation. The three wind panels offer additional protection, too. When done, the portable gazebo can be stored in the included oversized carrying bag.

What to look for in a gazebo

Beyond picking out the "pretty one that matches our home," here are five things you should consider before purchasing a gazebo:

• Where will the gazebo be located? The location must be flat. Foundations can be a patio or deck, a newly-installed foundation pad, or an even lawn.
• Do you need a building permit? Check with your local building codes office to ensure that adding a gazebo is permissible. Most structures that are less than 100-square-feet do not require permits, but you should also check with your local utility company if you are digging a foundation to avoid water, sewer, and electrical lines.
• What size gazebo do I need? Most kits' measurements state the interior floor area. Allow at least an additional one foot of clearance around every side to accommodate roofing overhangs. Also, consider the size and shape if you plan to cover a hot tub, picnic table, outdoor seating, or cooking areas.
• Do you plan to assemble the kit yourself? While most kits can be assembled easily, others require professional assistance. Almost every kit will require at least two people when it's time to raise the structure and erect the roof.
• Does the gazebo fit your needs? If you desire more privacy, look for a gazebo with privacy walls or curtains. For insect control, screening on all sides is essential. If you desire complete protection from the weather, metal or shingle roofs will provide more shelter than fabric. If you plan to use it to shelter a cooking area, make sure it is properly fire-resistant.

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