Best Hardtop Gazebos

If you’re looking to add creativity and style to your backyard, adding a gazebo will definitely do the trick. Whether you’re using a gazebo as a focal point for your garden, or an open-air area for barbecues, a gazebo is a great solution for beautifying your backyard setting.

However, not just any gazebo is going to do the trick. Choosing one that is suitable with you and blends in with your budget can be a tad bit on the overwhelming side, because there are so many different options that are available. How exactly do you go about picking out the best gazebo that is going to fit cozily and perfectly in your backyard?

What are the Best Hardtop Gazebos?

 

The best outdoor gazebo cannot be summed up into one gazebo. This is because what is suitable for your neighbor may not be suitable for you. For this reason, I am going to give you a list of the best outdoor hardtop gazebos that I have came across – this way, you will have options to choose from.

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Sojag Messina Hardtop Gazebo

 

The Sojag Messina hard top sun shelter is one of the most popular hardtop gazebos available.

This one is a bestseller for a reason it has a durable structure and is perfect to provide shade in those hot summer days and even though you might not want to sit out on the patio it will hold up in snowy winter months as well.

Easy Assembly – the Messina hard top sun shelter will take around 4 hours to put together and we would suggest it being a two man job. It is easy to assemble following the instructions included but Sojag also provide a video on how to assemble this Gazebo kit which you can watch below.

Rustproof Frame

The Messina hardtop gazebo features a rustproof frame which means that it is perfect to leave out in all weather. Reading reviews on Amazon it has withstood hot, wet, windy and snowy winters with no issues.

Galvanized Steel Roof

If you are deciding between the type of roof panels for your gazebos roof we would suggest if you are looking for longevity then a steel roof is preferable over a polycarbonate roof.

Nylon mosquito Netting

This hardtop features a fitted mosquito net to protect you from those annoying bugs.

Kozyard Alexander Hardtop  Gazebo

 

 

This is the perfect gazebo for family nights and backyard barbeques. To make it even better, it also comes with a mosquito net, making it great for areas like Florida, Louisiana, and all of those other places that are prone to mosquito attacks (if you live in the deep south, you know what I’m talking about here).

The rugged construction and classic traditional look that this gazebo gives off makes this gazebo great for spring, fall and summer.

Aluminum Frame

The dark brown frame is very sturdy and strong. It is constructed on a 4.7”x4.7X triangular aluminum stand pole. It is much stronger and bigger than the standard models currently on the market. The materials that are used on this gazebo are built to last, and should never become deformed or rusty.

Hard Metal Top

The hard metal top is exactly what I like to find in a gazebo, it is much better than normal fabric. As an additional benefit, there is a 5 year warranty on this hardtop roof.

Mosquito Netting

This gazebo comes with PBV-coated polyester netting and the steel railing can be removed from the 4 sides. There’s a double track system, which will give you the opportunity to add a second layer of privacy. There’s 2 layers of sidewalls – this includes the mosquito net and a polyester solid sidewall.

Water Gutter Design

The water gutter design makes sure that when it rains, the water will not go inside. Instead, it will go inside the poles and along the edge of the frame.

Pros

• 5 year warranty on the roof

• High quality, all season long construction

• Includes a mosquito netting for bug protection and sun protection

• Durable galvanized steel roof

• Rustproof frame

Cons

• No center hook for hanging lights

All in all, if you’re looking for a gazebo that will last for many years to come, then this one is suitable. It even has a 5 year warranty on the roof, which is great.

 

Sunjoy Chatham Steel Hardtop Gazebo

The Sunjoy Chatham Hardtop Gazebo is another great choice – it really does stand out from the crowd. The gazebo is spacious as it offers an interior that is 10’x 12’. This means that there is more than enough room for entertainment all year long.

Heavy Duty

The heavy duty aluminum frame combined with the durable steel roof makes it so that it is able to withstand even the most powerful gusts of wind (this would be great for those in Florida).

Keeps the Rain and Sun off Your Back

When it comes to keeping the rain and sun off your back, I must say, the Sunjoy Hardtop gazebo does a great job.

Mosquito Netting

This gazebo also comes with a mosquito net. The net raps around the gazebo via a tracked system. You can easily position it how you want it and tie it off to the posts.

Dual Rail System

The dual rail system makes it so that you can add a privacy panel or another layer or rain protection. You can also close the space off and transform it into a screened gazebo.

Vented Roof Design

This gazebo has a neat vented roof design. This design will help reduce heat that is trapped inside the gazebo and smoke from fire tables.

Pros

• Ceiling hook – this is great for hanging lights

• Heavy duty steel roof

• Resistant to hail, rain, and snow

• Double track system

Cons

• No gutter system

• Assembly can take between 6-12 hours

This is a great gazebo that would be suitable for your backyard. While it doesn’t have a gutter system, it’s still a great gazebo.

Sojag Genova Sun Shelter

The Sojag Genova Sun Shelter is one of the biggest gazebos I came across and I must say, it stands out from the crowd for sure. If you’re looking for the biggest hardtop gazebo, then this one would be the one to pick.

Size

This gazebo is 12’ x 15”, making it one of the biggest gazebos on the list. It is great for parties and large gatherings. If you plan on putting a nice hot tub under a gazebo, this would be a great one to have. After putting a hot tub, you will still have room for a small table and a couple of chairs.

Withstand Wind and Rain

This hardtop gazebo is capable of withstanding wind and rain, and will last for many years to come.

Construction

The durable steel roofing panels, a center hook design and a well constructed aluminum frame gives you everything you need to create your beautiful outdoor space. The Sojag Genova sun shelter is stunning. The dark chocolate cutting and clean lines make it even more beautiful. There’s also downward sloping roof lines that help reduce the snow load and leaves.

Dual Track System

The gazebo comes with a dual track system for both bug netting and a privacy curtain. Take note that the bug netting comes with the gazebo.

Pros

• Large 12’x15’

• Comes with mosquito netting

• Dual track system

• Durable four season construction

• Lightweight aluminum frame makes it easy to assemble

• Rust proof galvanized steel roof

• Hook in the middle for hanging lights

Cons

• Doesn’t include gutters

• No central roof vent

If you’re looking for a good gazebo that can fit a lot of people or maybe a hot tub, then look no further than the Sojag Genova. While there are no gutters, it does have a centralized hook that you can hang lights or a fan from.

So now you have read reviews of our top picks we are going to delve deeper into what to look for when choosing the perfect hardtop gazebo.

 

A Buyers Guide to What to Look for in a Hardtop Gazebo

Choose the Ideal Material

The designs and types of gazebos can vary according to what they’re used for. Today, I recommend going for hard-top gazebo frames. Yes, the hard-top gazebo may cost a little bit more than those that have soft-tops, but they will last longer as they’re able to withstand debris and weather.

The Design

You also need to think of a design. What are your style preferences? How much space do you have in your backyard or patio for the gazebo? Do you plan on covering the area with lush foliage? Do you want to have a walkway? Are you going for a modernly sophisticates theme, rustic theme, or country style? The design and theme will help you decide the type of gazebo you want.

The Purpose

After you have contemplated your preferences for the design of your garden, it is time for you to move forward and figure out the purpose behind your gazebo. Many people like to put a gazebo in their backyard to give them a place to go to be close to nature. Others choose to have a patio installed in their yard for social gatherings, barbecues and entertainment purposes. Regardless of the use, it is a great way to escape the sun when you go outside during the day.

Choosing the Size

The design of your gazebo is also going to depend on the size. Then, of course, the size you decide on is going to depend on the size of the area you will be putting the gazebo. If the area is large, then you will be able to opt for those that are bigger in size, while a small area is going to limit you. The trick here is to go for a size and design that will be suitable for your garden or yard.

The Best Features to Look for When Buying a Gazebo

When you’re out there looking for a gazebo, there are some features that you shouldn’t leave out. Here is a list of those features:

Weatherproof

Since you will be placing the gazebo in the great outdoors, you obviously need to go for something that is weatherproof. The gazebo you decide on should be able to withstand exposure to various weather elements. If you live in an area like Florida, then it should be able to withstand rain, sunshine, and heavy winds.

When choosing your gazebo, check for product features such as “the ability to withstand winds, and heavy weight loads” and “rust resistant.” If the gazebo you pick is rated to carry heavy weight, then this means that you can keep your gazebo up all year long, even during the winter time when it may snow – this is why I recommend hard-top gazebos, because they can withstand these type of elements.

Also, when a gazebo is water resistant, this means that you will be able to use your gazebo even on rainy days without having to worry about water getting inside.

UV Protection

If you plan on getting a gazebo to put in your backyard, then you probably plan on using it when it’s warm and sunny outside. For this reason, the gazebo you get should be rated to be able to block those UV rays. If you go with a hard-top gazebo, you don’t have to worry about this.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Gazebo

When purchasing a gazebo, there are many factors that you should consider.

Size

One of those factors just so happen to be size. I know, I mentioned size earlier, but I cannot stress enough just how important size is. You need to know the dimensions of your backyard and how much space you’d like the gazebo to take up. Also take into consideration the amount of space you’ll need for a play area or your garden. Just make sure you measure the area you will be placing the gazebo and take those measurements into consideration when looking for a gazebo.

Materials

When picking the right gazebo to go with your home, aesthetics are an important factor. Wood, metal, and plastic are the three common materials that are used to construct the frames of a gazebo. For covers, you can usually choose between polyester or canvas for the fabric, and for hardtops, you have a choice between polycarbonate and aluminum. Again, I recommend hardtop gazebos because they will last for many years to come. The type of material style that you pick all depends on your personal preference in terms of how the gazebo is going to match landscaping and furniture in your backyard, along with durability.

The Ease of Installation

If you’re like me, then you probably want to install a gazebo that you can keep up all year long. When buying a gazebo, you should consider the ease of installation, and if you’re not very good at putting things together, you may want to bring in some help.

How Long Does a Gazebo Last?

When it comes to gazebos, there are many different types that you can select from, which means that the amount of time they last can vary. You can purchase wooden gazebos, metal gazebos, canopies, and even pop up gazebos, and they will last for different amounts of time.

However, a gazebo can last anywhere from 1 to 15 years, and like I said, it will all depend on the type you opt for from. 

Pop Up Gazebos

Pop up gazebos are the type that include canopies on them. These type of canopies can last anywhere from 1 use up to 6 years. This is because there are different types of products that you can buy for these. For example, there are “single-use” pop up gazebos that you can get. When it comes to pop up gazebos, normally, you can look at the price to get an idea of how long they’re going to last due to the cheap prices. A cheap pop-up gazebo, for example, can last a couple of years, while a premium pop up gazebo can last up to 5 years.

 

How Long do Hardtop Gazebos Last?

There are various different types of metal gazebos that you can buy, but I am going to talk about the solid polycarbonate metal models, which are also called hardtop gazebos.

For those of you that are trying to find a solid gazebo that you can use in every season, and can last for more than 10 years, then the hardtop gazebo is a great choice.

Take note that you will need to do routine maintenance on the gazebo to make it last longer. A good, high quality gazebo will have a frame that is powder coated. The powder coating will help prevent it from rusting.

The roof section of the gazebo is made from polycarbonate sheets, which are very tough and solid. Some will come with mosquito nets and curtains to use – if you live in an area that is prone to mosquitoes and the patio you get does not come with a mosquito net, then you can purchase it separately and put it up yourself.

What Shapes do Gazebos Come in?

Gazebos vary in shapes and sizes. As for the shape, most gazebo plans have a tendency to be octagonal or hexagonal. However, there are numerous options for your gazebo. The common shapes include:

• Square

• Round

• Oval

• Rectangular

• Hexagonal

• Dodecagonal

• Decagonal

• Octagonal

What Sizes do Gazebos Come In?

Gazebos are available in a variety of different sizes. The standard size for a backyard gazebo is 12 feet by 12 feet. There are other popular sizes that include 14 feet by 14 feet and 12 feet by 14 feet. Of course, if you want, you can go for a bigger gazebo, but I don’t recommend going for a size that is smaller than the standard size.

Conclusion

If you have read this whole article congratulations you now have all the extra information you need to make an informed buying decision for purchasing the best hardtop gazebo for your needs.

Sunjoy are probably one of the most well known brands for outdoor furniture but any of our best picks should be perfect for you outdoor entertaining and relaxing.