Gazebos are one of the most popular elements of landscape design, allowing you to transform the appearance of any site. A variety of products made of wood, metal, polycarbonate and other materials allows owners of country houses to choose a gazebo that will help create an atmosphere of coziness and comfort. Do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebos are the best option for creating a strong, durable and at the same time visually weightless structure that will decorate your yard for many years.

It should be borne in mind that you will not go wrong if you use polycarbonate in construction. This material, which is widely used in construction, has a number of properties that make it stand out against the background of other transparent building materials.

Due to the special structure of the material, polycarbonate slabs do not break upon impact and do not chip or crack.

The main advantages of cellular polycarbonate include:

• High impact resistance (8 times stronger than acrylic plastic and 200 times stronger than glass).
• Extremely light (6 times lighter than acrylic and 16 times lighter than glass). The installation of lightweight polycarbonate panels does not require solid supporting structures.
• Ability to withstand temperature changes from -40 to +120 degrees, as well as snow and wind loads. This feature makes cellular polycarbonate an ideal roofing material for gazebos, greenhouses and other light-transmitting structures.
• High heat and sound insulation properties and light transmittance with transparency up to 86%. The outer side of the panel is covered with a special layer that protects against ultraviolet radiation.

This material is also easy to process - bending, drilling, cutting.

In addition, the cost of polycarbonate panels is an order of magnitude lower compared to the same metal, and a wide range of colors allows you to choose the best option, the use of which will allow the structure to fit perfectly into the design of the site

Stages of construction

Installing a polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands, like any building structure, is carried out according to a certain algorithm.

Step #1 – choosing and preparing a place for a gazebo

Gazebos are placed near the house, as well as in the recreation area. It’s great if this place is located in the shade of trees and away from drafts.

The choice of location for the gazebo primarily depends on the functions that the structure will perform. When planning to create a permanent gazebo of a large area, you should prepare the foundation for the construction of the structure. A flat area with a sufficiently low groundwater level is suitable for this purpose. If the site is located in a low area, the structure should be protected from flooding, and to do this, build a solid foundation for it. Gazebos can be installed either directly on the ground or on a specially constructed platform - a foundation. When deciding to create a gazebo for relaxing and gathering cheerful companies around the table, it will be enough to install only supporting pipes as a foundation.

If there is a pond on the site, then it is very reasonable to place a gazebo not far from it in order to provide an additional flow of fresh air during the midday heat

The most common shapes of gazebos are: square and rectangular, triangular, round and oval. The design of a traditional square gazebo can be decorated with either a single- or gable-type roof or a hip-type roof.

Step #2 – preparing the foundation base

If you don’t need to lay a special foundation for small and light gazebos, then a foundation is required for the construction of permanent structures. To do this, you should mark the territory and designate places for future posts for the frame. Pouring the area under the gazebo can be done in parallel with installing the posts. To install the posts, you need to dig holes large enough to accommodate two bricks inside. In this case, there should still be room for filling a 10 cm layer of soil.

The posts are installed inside the hole, filled with screenings and filled with cement. Cement hardens within a few days

The posts are installed inside the hole, filled with screenings and filled with cement. The cement hardens within a few days. To prevent moisture from getting on the hardening cement in the hole, you can cover the base of the posts with film.

Step #3 - frame assembly process

The manufacturing material can be either wooden posts or metal profiles. Wood is an inexpensive and easy-to-work material that requires constant care to extend its service life. Metal is a durable and temperature-resistant material whose service life is an order of magnitude longer than wood.

The principle of assembling the frame is reminiscent of working with a constructor and is quite simple to implement

Elements of a wooden structure are fastened with nails and self-tapping screws, and metal ones with screws and nuts. When working with metal, it is advisable to combine connection types, also using welded connections of parts.

Step #4 – glazing the gazebo with polycarbonate

Polycarbonate can be used not only as a material for arranging a roof, but also for fragments of wall coverings. Polycarbonate windows for the gazebo will bring additional sunlight into a cozy relaxation area and add lightness to the structure. Shaped holes in the side coverings, cut with a hacksaw, will create a visual effect of weightlessness and openwork.

If you make a roof from polycarbonate, you can attach it using ordinary self-tapping screws. There are also special thermal washers

So, first, the outlines of all the light-transmitting parts of the gazebo are transferred to the prepared polycarbonate sheets. After this, using an electric jigsaw, a hacksaw or a sharply sharpened knife, the parts are cut out along the contour. Sufficient ease of cutting sheets is one of the valuable properties of polycarbonate. To connect to a metal structure, holes must be drilled in polycarbonate parts.

Rubber washers with screws and silicone sealants will help avoid unwanted leaks in the structure and destruction of the base of the sheets. To insulate corner joints and join several parts, it is advisable to use special elements that can be purchased along with polycarbonate sheets.

Design and maintenance of the gazebo

A comfortable and beautifully decorated gazebo will become your favorite corner in the garden, where you can enjoy the singing of birds and unity with nature. In addition, to communicate with guests there will now be no need to go into the house, but instead spend time having a pleasant conversation in the fresh air.

Climbing plants planted along the walls of the gazebo and entwining the structure will give this corner special attractiveness and comfort.

A polycarbonate gazebo can serve as a functional element of landscape design for at least ten years. The design does not require special care.

The windows and roof of the gazebo, made of transparent material resistant to temperature changes, need only be periodically washed with water from a hose or wiped off dirt with a damp cloth. Dirt is easily removed with ordinary soapy water. For cleaning, it is not advisable to use detergents that contain chlorine, alkali, salts and harmful abrasive substances, which may damage the outer layer with ultraviolet protection.

Sheets of brightly colored tones, used instead of traditional transparent sheets, allow you to give the structure an original look

In this article you will learn how to make polycarbonate gazebos with your own hands - photos of the step-by-step process are attached. You can do this yourself, and then enjoy using your structure in the summer. This material is divided into 3 parts:

• In the first chapter you will learn everything about the material and its properties and technical characteristics. You can also use our calculator if you want to find out the average price for polycarbonate in the central regions of Russia.
• The second part of the article will tell you how to make a gazebo for your summer house from polycarbonate with your own hands. Two options will be considered - with a frame made of profile pipe and made of wood. In both cases, the roof is made of polycarbonate for the gazebo.
• In conclusion, we will consider a few more questions related to the topic of the article, for example, about sliding windows or installing doors.

DIY polycarbonate gazebo: photo of a simple model

What is polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate is a technological plastic with a honeycomb structure. These honeycombs are filled with air, and this helps retain heat. Usually the sheets are treated with special varnishes, which allows the material not to transmit ultraviolet radiation - a property that is undoubtedly useful, especially for environmentally friendly country houses.

Characteristics of polycarbonate

Lightweight, plastic, durable, frost-resistant - this is not a complete list of the qualities of this material. Indeed, for builders it can be considered a real gift - it is easy to deal with even for beginners, and, in addition, it is a good dielectric and is durable.

Polycarbonate has the following advantages:

• high impact resistance and load-bearing capacity (8 times stronger than acrylic plastic and almost 200 times stronger than glass - this is why it is often recommended to use it rather than ordinary glass).
• Lightness (it is light in weight, and when using it there is no need to install a conventional foundation: a columnar foundation will do).
• Heat resistance (withstands temperatures from -40 to +120 degrees Celsius without significant damage to the surface).
• Ability to withstand heavy weight loads (snow, wind).
• High levels of sound insulation (despite the apparent thinness of the material, it does not allow sounds to pass through, which makes the gazebo a more comfortable and quiet place).
• High levels of light transmission (greenhouses are often made from carbonate - this material allows you to plant flowers in the building without fear that they will not have enough light).
• Easy to process (it bends and drills easily).

Technical properties of polycarbonate honeycomb sheets

properties	sheet thickness, mm
	4	6	8	10	16	20	25	32
weight, kg/sq.m *	0,8-1,0	1,3	1,5-1,7	1,7-2,0	2,5-2,7	3,0-3,1	3,4-3,5	3,7
minimum bending radius, m *	0,7	1,05	1,2-1,4	1,5-1,75	2,4-2,8	3,5	3,75-4,4	4,8-5,7
sound insulation, dba *	15-16	18	18-20	19-24	20-27	22	22-30	36
thermal resistance to heat transfer r, m2*s/W *	0,24-0,26	0,27-0,31	0,28-0,42	0,29-0,40	0,36-0,51	0,37-0,56	0,65-0,68	0,63-0,83
heat transfer coefficient, W/(m2*k) *	4,1	3,7	3,6	3,1	2,0-2,4	1,8-2,0	1,6-1,7	1,4
light transmittance (for transparent colorless sheet) *	82	82	82	80	76	51-79	18-79	50-73
absorbed energy of removal, nm	21,3	27	>27	>27	>27	>27	>27	>27

Among the significant disadvantages, perhaps, it is worth paying attention to the flammability of the material: in a collision with an open fire, polycarbonate may begin to melt.

It is also worth mentioning that a gazebo for a summer house made of polycarbonate will cost its creator a considerable price compared to other alternatives. On the other hand, it will not be easy to find raw materials that are more reliable, visually attractive and easy to handle.

Country gazebos made of polycarbonate - photos of different types of gazebos

Having figured out which polycarbonate for a gazebo is better, we move on to the classification of country gazebos made of polycarbonate (photo options below). The shapes and types of structures that are made from this material can be very diverse.

As a rule, gazebos have several distinctive characteristics: frame upholstery, installation methods, type of construction. Based on the upholstery of the frame, they are divided into:

• open;
• closed.

According to the methods of installing the frame:

• stationary;
• portable (seasonal).

By design:

• simple (light awnings);
• complex (polyhedra).

Most often, garden gazebos made of polycarbonate are made arched, round or hemispherical - their appearance is attractive, and in addition to their main functional load, they can also serve a decorative function. Next, we’ll look at how to make a polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands – photos of the work process are also given in the article.

Polycarbonate for gazebos: which one is better

Monolithic and cellular (cellular) polycarbonate are most often used in construction. . To create gazebos (as well as canopies, fences and greenhouse structures), it is better to use a cellular one, since it is cheaper than a monolithic one and is more flexible. It is also better suited for the construction of such structures, and usually there are no questions about which material to choose. You can view more detailed data on the bending of cellular polycarbonate in the interactive form below.

When you decide which polycarbonate to choose for the gazebo, pay attention to the protective layer that covers the sheet: if its sheets are yellowish, brittle and cloudy, then most likely the layer is applied unevenly or is not there at all.

Like any plastic, polycarbonate can come in different colors. It is impossible to say for sure what color of polycarbonate is best for a gazebo, but green is most often used in buildings (it is believed that it goes well with the natural landscape) , but if you wish, you can choose from any other, the options are presented below.

What about thickness material, it is believed that the thicker it is, the better your construction will be. Sometimes unscrupulous manufacturers try to reduce weight by reducing the thickness of the membranes in the structure - we would advise talking to the seller before buying something and asking him for advice on the quality of the material.

The ideal option would be to choose a two-layer coating (two-chamber structure).

Arranging the courtyard area of ​​a country house involves creating a certain degree of comfort sufficient for relaxation. In the courtyard, they often design: a full-fledged swimming pool, space is allocated for a garden, and a barbecue sheltered from the weather is installed.

With decorative forged elements

That is why we have put together for you a selection of photographs of gazebos made of steel and polycarbonate, which have become very popular on the market over the past couple of years.

We want to collect here the most the best ideas from all over the Russian Internet, so that you can choose the best option for your dacha!

A photo of a metal gazebo with polycarbonate for a summer residence can be demonstrated by every connoisseur of spiritual gatherings outside the home. This small building often becomes the main place of stay for all guests at any time of the year.

Important: covered in another publication. Here we get acquainted only with the best design solutions and photographs of gazebos.

While wooden buildings may become unusable over the course of several seasons, gazebos built from the latest materials have a significantly longer service life.

With forged elements

Everyone dreams of creating a holiday destination that can delight all visitors for years. The need for a gazebo made of polycarbonate and metal in summer cottages is often underestimated.

This design has several advantages:

1. The metal frame allows you to reduce the weight of the structure. Due to the lightness of polycarbonate, the gazebo does not require a foundation as a base, and, if necessary, can be easily dismantled and rearranged.
2. Minimal structural complexity. Standard buildings are installed without deadlock situations. If desired and the necessary tools are available, the process of making a frame and its further covering is within the power of any owner.
3. Availability and low cost of raw materials. All components of the building do not have an exorbitant cost, and it is possible to purchase funds at the nearest construction center.
4. The material is easy to use in various finishing options.

Separate building

A recreation structure decorated with polycarbonate panels helps to visually expand the space of the site.

Using the yellowish tint of this material as an overlay creates the illusion of natural light even on gloomy days.

With barbecue

On a note: A positive property of technological plastic is considered to be high thermal conductivity.

The presence of an air gap in its porous structure, combined with minimal heating, makes staying inside the gazebo quite comfortable.

For garden

When designing a recreation area in the center of the garden plot, you should not worry about the possible disadvantages of this placement.

Thanks to the unique qualities of polycarbonate, almost any place becomes ideal for an intimate conversation. There is no better alternative to sheathing for gazebos on the market than polycarbonate.

Made of polycarbonate and metal, it has the following features:

1. High ability to withstand physical blows. Compared to the strength of conventional glass panels, high-tech plastic is 200 times stronger than its closest competitor.
2. Polycarbonate sheathing is corrosion resistant.
3. With additional treatment with a protective composition, it is capable of blocking the penetration of ultraviolet radiation by 86%.
4. The material is easy to process.
5. Does not shatter when broken into pieces.
6. The ignition temperature is quite high, which makes the material fireproof.

Any contamination of the coating can be easily removed by regular washing. Polycarbonate is unpretentious to various cleaning compounds. The owners may put off repairs to a recreation area once built for years.

From time to time, minimal touch-up of the gazebo is required to restore the original aesthetics.

The honeycomb lattice structure of polycarbonate does an excellent job of suppressing various noises, which only increases the comfort of staying inside.

From a profile pipe

An alternative substitute for the metal components of the frame can be ordinary profile pipes.

For installation, long elements with a square or rectangular cross-section are purchased. square shape has maximum stability.

Thanks to the lightness of the pipes, you can save significant money on the construction of the foundation. A common practice in the construction of such gazebos is the complete absence of a reliable foundation.

The lightness of the frame, if necessary, allows the structure to be completely portable. The correct shape becomes the main guarantee of the reliability of the assembly of the entire structure.

To erect a building with an internal stationary barbecue, laying a strip foundation is required. With structural lightness, it is possible to limit ourselves to columnar pouring of concrete or its complete absence.

A gazebo made of profiles and polycarbonate is equipped with two types of roofs: straight and the more universal pitched one.

The first option is suitable for seasonal use of the building, since the snow load in winter can completely destroy a comfortable area for guests. A pitched roof is a universal option that is installed on non-removable frames of gazebos.

Various shapes

When choosing the location of a new house for gatherings, many mistakenly focus exclusively on natural details - the direction of the winds, the presence of vegetation, landscape irregularities.

However, the choice of frame shape largely determines the future overall functionality.

Metal polycarbonate gazebos are classified according to the following structural forms:

1. Round buildings.
2. Square seating areas.
3. Arc-shaped projects.
4. Versatile options with multiple dedicated rooms.

Before choosing the optimal shape, you should consider filling the interior space with kitchen appliances, furniture and other interior items.

If you need to place all the items correctly, it is better to build a large rectangular structure.

Arc-shaped

The shape of any building is the main factor of attractiveness. Standard straightforward motifs will tell about the owner as a supporter of retro styles and his strict view of things.

The use of arched smooth lines on your own site is characterized by the following distinctive aspects:

With a beautiful arched roof

1. Unsurpassed ideological originality. The rounded design of the walls sometimes creates a convex effect, which when transitioning into the roof becomes a reinforcing spherical factor.
2. Maximum harmony. The absence of right angles and clear lines is a feature of natural decor. An arc-shaped polycarbonate gazebo can easily fit into any garden composition.
3. Complete aesthetics of the image. Since in cities we are faced with the vast majority of rectangular building shapes, being in a semicircular building will be a real pleasure.
4. Streamlining creates natural protection from the wind. Air currents will stop crashing into the walls. On the contrary, they will go around each element separately.

Made of metal

On a note: If you want to arrange a gazebo in an open area, you should give preference to semicircular arc designs.

This type of fencing of the recreation area will protect the interior space from excessive blowing.

Round (dome)

The construction of a dome structure is suitable for those who like to turn non-standard solutions into reality.

Gazebos made of metal and polycarbonate are characterized by a non-standard layout, which creates certain difficulties when choosing furniture.

Ball-shaped

Classic options for interior decoration are no longer natural enough, so the best solution for arranging a gazebo would be to use custom-made furniture.

Minor inconveniences during arrangement cannot cover up the mass of positive features of this type of construction:

1. During the process of assembling the project, it is possible to save about half of the resources that are spent when constructing classic models of gazebos.
2. Installation of the structure is not difficult; it is carried out without pouring a full-fledged high-quality foundation. There is no concrete base at all.
3. Durability and resistance to wind gusts. The aerodynamic qualities of such an object allow it to withstand the pressure of storm warning winds.
4. Uniqueness of the interior. Thanks to the non-standard form, the atmosphere always turns out to be unique.

Dome structures are the embodiment of advanced forms and future trends in construction. This specificity allows guests to feel lightness, emotional tide and a sense of complacency.

Square

The rigor and simultaneous sophistication of square forms forces adherents of correct lines to equip their summer cottages with square gazebos.

A small building of this type can easily be placed in the very corner of the yard, which will save as much free space as possible.

A gazebo made of profile pipe and polycarbonate with a square frame is characterized by the following advantages:

Country house owners can choose many options and materials for buildings inside their garden. In this list, polycarbonate structures occupy the first positions. A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo will always fit organically into the interior and give it a fresh look.

The advantage of polycarbonate for creating a shelter from the sun

Polycarbonate is a versatile building material with unique properties that you will not find in other materials.

Among the advantages of the released plastic are:

• High resistance to impacts and physical stress. A substance that is 8 times stronger than acrylic plastic and 200 times stronger than ordinary glass.
• Light weight, unrivaled. You don't need solid support elements, since plastic is 15 times lighter than glass.
• The product perfectly transmits sunlight, while serving as an excellent noise and heat insulator. High-quality manufacturers cover the surface of the panels with an additional layer against exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
• The material can withstand temperatures from -40 to +120 degrees. Polycarbonate with high-quality installation will withstand hot weather with wind and heavy precipitation.

It is thanks to this set of qualities that polycarbonate has become an indispensable material on country and farm lands, in the form of canopies, greenhouses and similar constructions.

If you want to shape a metal product, at best you will have to exert physical effort and use tools; wood also needs to be processed. With polycarbonate, you can simply move your hand to give the panel the desired look.

A high degree of manufacturability allows you to cut panels even with ordinary scissors or a stationery knife, which is also a unique case.

Unlike the aforementioned glass, polycarbonate will not crumble into fragments when broken.

Thanks to simple methods of work, you need a minimum of knowledge to build a polycarbonate shelter. You can find many architectural solutions for a summer residence on the Internet or in this article.

Compared to gazebos made from other materials, building a gazebo made of polycarbonate requires a significantly smaller budget. Frame profiles can also be the cheapest. This is the most economical option when compared with the wooden, forged or stone version.

Preparing to build a polycarbonate gazebo

Choosing the right polycarbonate

To create a canopy or garden house, the following types of plastic are often used:

• Monolithic polycarbonate, which is used for heavy structures on a farm or country house;
• Profiled polycarbonate. In this version, the difference is in the shape of the material - it is wavy, which makes it excellent for creating roof coverings;
• Cellular polycarbonate is the most common. This is an inexpensive and simple building material that allows you to create regular and nonlinear shapes and bends.

The decision of which material to choose so that the polycarbonate gazebo will last a long time is up to you. But we recommend avoiding dubious manufacturers and using only well-known brands. The required elongation limit must be at least 55 MPa, and impact strength (at least 25 kJ/m2), bending strength required - 90 MPa.

Choosing a frame and type of gazebos

For your gazebo sheathed with polycarbonate to be successful, you need to organize the correct installation of the main frame. This event is the main and most crucial moment in construction. Take the choice of materials for load-bearing supports seriously.
Common solutions for polycarbonate shelters are:

• Metal pipes;
• Concrete or building foam blocks;
• Forged metal gratings.

The simplest option for you would be a design made of metal parts:

1. Hollow pipe;
2. Fittings of various diameters;
3. Construction corners;
4. Profile products.

According to the type of structure, there are two options for polycarbonate gazebos:

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo can be built either in a stationary version with any foundation, or portable. In this case, you can change the location of the gazebo as it suits you.

According to the level of complexity and equipment, polycarbonate gazebos can be divided into the following types:

Classification of plastic pavilions

Classic building

Polycarbonate gazebos are often made in the style of a simple polycarbonate canopy in a square or rectangular shape. This design is formed without difficult joints, which are possible with precise cutting and require good sealing of the joints. You can easily build a canopy on your own, without the help of others. You will receive a comfortable, summer structure within one or two days of work.

Barrel gazebo

As mentioned above, polycarbonate is a flexible material, which allows you to create the second most popular summer house structure made of polycarbonate: a barrel gazebo. By forming both the roof and the walls in “one stroke,” the builder will significantly save on material and also add a catchy design format. In addition, such a gazebo is very practical and can be portable. You just need to create a strong frame from rolled metal and cover it with a whole sheet of plastic, attaching it with self-tapping screws. You can find out how to do this correctly below.

Gazebo-sphere

In this case, you will have to work hard. Don't take on the job if you don't have the relevant knowledge and experience. However, a polycarbonate gazebo in this version will look very original and stylish. It is necessary to implement a well-functioning sliding system and correctly bend the metal profile.

Building a gazebo - polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo is simple, economical and quick. For construction, you will need the following tools and materials: a standard list of grinders, drills, welding machines, chisels, shovels, hacksaws, etc. will do.

Choosing the material and base for the frame

You won't need to spend a lot of money and time. You need polycarbonate for mounting the roof, a board and batten, a wooden beam, a metal pipe, and a metal profile. You may also need building bricks for decoration and fastening.

Choosing a place for a gazebo

If you are planning a grandiose structure, pay attention to the soil of the future gazebo, which should be dry and have a flat surface. Check the groundwater level to see if it is within the acceptable range. Take into account the other characteristics of the area, exclude places with constant drafts and look for a place with shade, perhaps near trees. A properly designed gazebo will become a highlight of your garden.

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo is most practical in the case of a standard rectangular shape.

Creating the foundation of the structure

A large gazebo covered with polycarbonate with a barbecue will require the installation of a foundation. However, in the case of a standard gazebo, for several family members with a table and seats, you can limit yourself to supporting pipes, which will play the role of a base for your gazebo. To implement such a project, it is necessary to: create markings on site, dig or drill recesses for pipes and future filling.

Then the builder must install the load-bearing parts, center them in position and fill them with mortar, such as concrete.

Diagram: gazebo support pillars

You can also create a monolithic foundation over the entire area. After all operations, you need to wait a few days for drying.

We create the frame of the building

It all depends on the choice of your material, but the simplest and most effective option is to work with metal.

There are two ways to install the frame:

1. A gradual method, using corners and a metal profile.
2. Installation of a ready-made frame on a load-bearing support.

If you can carry out the first option on your own, then the second case will require teamwork, and, with a large mass, you will even have to use special transport.

In addition, the elements can be connected using either bolts or welding.

The roof and, if necessary, walls are also made of polycarbonate. It is necessary to secure the sheets of sloping material for effective drainage of sediments, and also hermetically so that water does not fall on the table and vacationers.

Important: polycarbonate is much like glass; this material can easily cut your hands or face at the junction. Therefore, the edges of the polycarbonate sheet, which can constantly come into contact with the human body, must be isolated with special plugs along the entire joint to prevent injuries.

You choose the cutting sizes yourself based on the situation. A very important step is securing the sheets with self-tapping screws. You should not damage the plastic and, in addition, follow the other rules, the main thing is not to overdo it with the screw, and complete the screwing when the fastener head comes into contact with the plastic.

You can choose the seats, backrests, and flooring to suit your taste. In the best case, all elements should be secured inside.

Design solutions for polycarbonate gazebos

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo can be made in various design solutions; we offer several options for inspiration:

There is nothing better than spending warm summer evenings with family or friends in your own countryside. In a beautiful and cozy gazebo you can fully enjoy nature and fresh air in any weather. But a gazebo for a summer residence is not only a cozy and comfortable place to spend time together in the fresh air. It can become a real decoration of the local area and fit harmoniously into its landscape design.

Peculiarities

Today there are many building materials for making gazebos, but polycarbonate is very popular. Structures made from it are durable, durable and have an attractive appearance.

Despite its external lightness, airiness and transparency, a garden gazebo made of polycarbonate is a fairly solid and reliable structure that has a number of advantages. Its main features are due to the characteristics of polycarbonate.

• Fire safety. Polycarbonate is a highly flammable substance. Even if a fire occurs, the material does not release toxic substances into the air. The temperature at which polycarbonate begins to melt is one hundred and twenty-five degrees Celsius, so you don’t have to worry about the structure melting even during the intense summer heat.
• High thermal insulation. The porous structure of the material ensures heat retention inside the structure due to the air gap. Therefore, polycarbonate gazebos, which have a heating system, can be used at any time of the year.
• Increased material flexibility and its lightness make it possible to make gazebos of various shapes and constructions from it.
• Long service life. Polycarbonate gazebos will last quite a long time and will definitely not require repairs for 10 years.

• High strength. The gazebo will not deform and will not collapse even under a thick layer of snow in winter.
• Moisture-resistant and waterproof.
• Lightproof. The material transmits exclusively light and prevents ultraviolet rays from penetrating into the structure.
• Easy to install. No foundation is required to install the gazebo. In addition, the design is mobile. It can be moved to any part of the site.
• Low temperature stability. The structure will not lose its integrity even during severe frosts.
• Safety. The material retains its integrity even in strong gusts of wind, guaranteeing safety during operation.
• Resistant to rot and mold.

Despite the many advantages of the material, it also has a number of disadvantages:

• the material deteriorates over time if it is constantly exposed to ultraviolet radiation, so it is better to install the structure in a shady part of the site;
• Polycarbonate has low abrasiveness and is susceptible to scratching, so special care should be taken during work.

Types of structures

First you need to decide on the design, dimensions and functional load of the structure. It may be different.

• By type of construction, open and closed. The first ones are perfect for relaxing in warm weather in the fresh air. If you plan to use the gazebo in any weather, then it is better to design a closed building that will provide reliable shelter from wind and rain.
• According to the installation method, stationary and mobile. The stationary option is installed on a reliable foundation, so it is impossible to move it. Portable models are suitable for those who like to frequently change something on the site, since moving it will not be difficult.

• The complexity is simple, light sheds and complex buildings. Building a regular shed can be done quickly and easily, without requiring any special costs for materials. Complex buildings require more time and money, but at the same time they are not only more reliable and durable, but also act as an excellent addition to the overall design of the site.
• According to the level of internal equipment, they can be with or without a barbecue. A simple gazebo is suitable for family tea parties, as well as dinners with the family. If you are going to receive guests here, then it is better to choose a gazebo with a barbecue.

• According to the level of functional load, they are divided into models with additional functions and decorative ones.
• The shape of the buildings is round, rectangular or square, oval and polygonal, or like a barrel.

When the choice of the type and shape of the gazebo has been made, you can proceed to the development of the project.

Project

The construction of a gazebo begins with drawing up a project. It is the creation of the right project that is the key to ensuring that your building will be durable, beautiful and comfortable. Already at the design stage it is necessary to think through everything down to the smallest detail, so it is worthwhile to implement all your ideas on paper.

Of course, the first thing you should decide on at the initial design stage is the dimensions of the future structure. The drawing should be carried out in compliance with all proportions, taking into account the standard dimensions of the polycarbonate sheet. Thus, the honeycomb material has a width of 210 cm and a length of 600 cm, and a sheet of monolithic polycarbonate has a width of 205 cm and a length of 305 cm.

Design work takes place in four main stages.

• Determining the location where the building will be located.

To do this, you should pay attention to:

1. the presence of unevenness at the proposed installation site;
2. absence of drafts;
3. the presence of bushes, trees, branches in this area or near it.

• Cleaning and leveling the area for the gazebo.
• Selecting a design based on weight, simplicity, dimensions and shape.
• Creating a drawing.

In summer suburban areas, simple gazebos with a canopy made of metal profiles and corrugated pipes are most often built. If the gazebo is intended to be used year-round, the design will be more complex.

All the details of construction should be thought through immediately, since the choice of material for constructing the frame depends on this.

Selection of location and base material

The material for making the base of a polycarbonate gazebo can be wood, metal or stone. Options with other types of materials are possible, but these three are the most commonly used.

Each of them has both a number of advantages and certain disadvantages.

• Wooden frames are made from timber. This is a completely accessible and inexpensive material. Its undeniable advantage is its environmental friendliness and naturalness. In addition, wood has a beautiful natural structure. The disadvantages of this design include fragility, instability to weather conditions and difficulty in maintenance.
• The metal base is a frame made of a profile or corner. Such gazebos are very durable, reliable, and have a long service life. But they also have their disadvantages: high cost, complexity of assembly, requiring welding.
• Stone frames are made of natural stone, brick, concrete. Stone bases will last a very long time, in addition, they are distinguished by their naturalness and aesthetic appeal. At the same time, they are quite heavy, their construction will require a lot of time, and replacement will create a lot of difficulties.

A polycarbonate gazebo is quite lightweight and can have different dimensions, so almost any ground covering is suitable for its installation.

It is best to choose a flat, dry surface. Ideally, it will be located at a slightly higher elevation so that moisture from precipitation does not collect in the area of ​​the building. Choose a place in the shade, with no drafts. It will be convenient if the building is located as close to the house as possible. If there is a body of water, then it is good to place a gazebo near it; this will give additional freshness and coolness during the summer heat.

Stages of work

Having decided on the base material and location for the structure, you can begin its phased construction.

Foundation

The foundation is presented in three types.

• Tape. To create such a foundation, you need to dig a trench, build formwork with a layer of reinforcement and fill it with concrete mortar. This is the most common and durable type of foundation, which is suitable for heavy buildings.
• Columnar. Such a foundation can support lightweight structures. It is built by digging pillars that are connected to each other by beams.
• Monolithic. This option is a solid slab. Its base consists of a metal frame filled with concrete.

Installation of a simple, lightweight gazebo is possible without a foundation. This option is installed directly on the ground. But for more complex, solid gazebos, a foundation is needed, especially when the soil is unstable.

For metal gazebos, it is enough to simply concrete the supporting metal pipes and fill the platform. Wooden gazebos are mounted on a columnar foundation.

It is constructed in the following sequence:

• the markings are transferred to the site from the design drawing;
• in the designated places they dig recesses up to 700 millimeters;
• a fifty-millimeter layer of crushed stone and sand is poured into the bottom of the pits;
• concrete is prepared;
• supports treated with anti-corrosion coating are installed in prepared holes;
• to ensure waterproofing of the base, you can additionally wrap some of the pillars in the ground with roofing felt;
• installation of all racks must be carried out at a verified level;
• after the supports are poured with concrete, it is necessary to provide them with temporary support so that they do not move until the solution sets;

The foundation is poured and dry, you can begin to build the frame.

Frame

Manufacturing and assembling the frame is a very important stage in the construction of a gazebo. The slightest flaw in the frame can create a problem for further assembly; the sheets of material will be fastened incorrectly, which can lead to rapid destruction of the building.

The base can be made of metal, stone or wood.

Depending on the material used to make the base, the method of its assembly varies:

• to create a frame part from wood you will need screws and nails;
• the metal frame base is connected using nuts, bolts and welding;
• For stone structures, cement mortar will be required.

It is better to connect the parts on the ground and install the finished section in place.

An important stage of construction is the assembly of the floor frame:

• it is necessary to install timber logs clearly at a horizontal level;
• Next comes the installation of additional roof supports;
• the flooring is made from edged boards treated with an anti-corrosion agent;
• The flooring boards are fastened with self-tapping screws.

When the floor and wall frame are ready, you can begin installing the polycarbonate roof.

Roof

You can proceed to the roof installation stage only if the frame is firmly fixed. Working with polycarbonate is quite easy. The material can be easily cut using a hacksaw, saw or jigsaw; if you have a circular saw, you can use it to speed up the process by installing a disk for cutting aluminum.

Thanks to this ease of working with the material, the roof can be easily given any shape. It can be single-pitch, gable, have a complex shape or be presented in the shape of an arch.

Shed models are the simplest and lightest option for a gazebo roof. When choosing a complex and intricate design, it is necessary to prepare a more complex frame and add additional metal racks to the upper frame.

In addition, a complex structure requires additional rigidity, which can be provided using intermediate beams. Therefore, you should choose a design based on your own capabilities and skills.

It is important not to rush to remove the thin protective film from the material; it will protect the surface from mechanical damage during sawing and installation.

The roof is made of cellular polycarbonate with a thickness of 6 or 8 millimeters. Depending on the level of dampness in the room where the material was stored, condensation may accumulate in its cells, which must be removed by blowing. To process the ends after cutting, a sealant, profile or aluminum tape is used.

When installing the roof, it is prohibited to step on the roofing sheets., as this may cause it to crack. For ease of installation, a ladder is used. It is necessary to drill holes in the sheets in advance if they are mounted on a metal frame. The sheets are fastened using a profile pipe, rubber washers, screws and silicone sealants to protect the sheet from destruction, and the inside of the gazebo from leaking.

Only after the roof is ready can you begin installing the material on the walls of the gazebo and windows with your own hands. The principle of fastening sheets to walls is identical to the principle of fastening to the roof, only it is important to ensure that the stiffeners are in the vertical direction to avoid water concentration.

To learn how to install a polycarbonate gazebo, see the following video.

Design inside and out

When the structure is completely ready, it’s time for interior and exterior design and arrangement of a comfortable place to relax. The interior decoration stage includes the installation of tables, benches, bar counters, and the addition of a stone fireplace. The possibilities for interior decoration are almost limitless and allow you to realize all your ideas and wishes.