Sunday 29 May 2011

Summer Hot Tub Gazebo Kits

There are many ways to build a gazebo for your hot tub, and a hot tub gazebo kit is probably one of the easiest ways to build one. The advantages to purchasing a kit is that it provides you with the design plans and suggested materials to build the gazebo with. Other options are to design and build the covering your self, without any carpentry background, this can prove to be disastrous, structurally, and cost wise. You can also or a prefabricated kit that either you can assemble or have a contractor put together for you. Another option is to have a carpenter or contractor custom design and make for you.

The hot tub design kits available are the most cost effective. It gives you the ability to choose the materials that you want to build your gazebo out of. You can match your deck with red wood, cedar, or vinyl deck/building materials. Many hot tubs have standard sizing that makes purchasing a kit rather than a custom prefab kit available for the size you need.

If your hot tub is on your deck with ample space around it, you can purchase a gazebo kit with all the wood and hardware included. These can come in square, round or octagon shapes and fit nicely on your deck as a covering over the tub. All the wood including the roof is precut for easy assembly. You can also order benches to go inside the gazebo and get matching cushions for your other outdoor furniture.

Some other choices are using a temporarily
gazebo kit. The variety of these gazebos that are set up in the department stores, home improvement centers and wholesale stores make them a very attractive purchase. These are usually made out of wrought iron and have decorative awing, swag and covering with some type of screen netting to keep insects at a minimum. The decorative iron can be anchored to your deck for more stability. The only draw back to this type of covering is that is can be compromised in a heavy wind or rain storm so make sure you are able to remove the tarp, or canvas covering easily if you need to.

To make your choice you may first want to decide how much you want to spend on your gazebo. A custom build may run you anywhere from $5,000 to 15,000 depending on the size and materials you might choose. The design kits can run from $4-8,000 depending on the size and materials used. The temporary gazebo can start at $250 to over $1000 depending on how big and intricate the design features are. The earlier you buy in the season the better off you will be. Purchase with plenty of time to enjoy your hot tub gazebo all summer long.

Wednesday 25 May 2011

Patio Gazebo - Living it Up Outside

While having a patio is a wonderful home addition, a place where you can spend good times with family and friends, unless you have some kind of cover, you are somewhat limited to how the patio can be used. As an example, while you might enjoy the warm summer months, an unprotected patio would be too hot. If the day is comfortable but rain is pouring down, you would be stuck inside. If you had the ability to set up a patio gazebo, something that would go directly on top of the existing patio to provide protection from the sun, rain, snow, or wind, would you be interested?

The patio gazebo has become a very popular solution over the past few years. These types of gazebos are very affordable and they work exceptionally well. patio gazebos are also available in a wide range of sizes, many to fit an established patio without the need for any modification. For instance, for a 10x10-foot patio gazebo would be designed with a sturdy frame consisting of four to six poles. In addition to a sturdy frame,this patio gazebo also has a waterproof canopy. Best of all,the design is a pop-up, which means you can have the
gazebo setup in just a few minutes.

With an eight-foot center and 6.5-foot corners, even your tallest guests will have plenty of headroom. Although you might initially purchase a patio gazebo for the patio, because of the mobility and flexibility, you could easily take it down and move it to the pool area or beach for a party, to the middle of the
backyard for a great place to eat, and so on. This patio gazebo is so perfect that it even comes with its own carrying bag. With it unfolding as one piece, nothing has been easier.

Probably one of the coolest new designs on the market for a patio gazebo is known as the "Instant gazebo". For this, you would have a sturdy but lightweight aluminum frame. Hooked onto that stand is the canopy, which includes netting on the side panels to help with insects. To set this patio gazebo up, you simply pull it out into the appropriate shape and in seconds, you have a 10x10-foot structure. When ready to take the gazebo down, you simply gather the canopy up, reattach, and then secure it to the frame.


Regardless of the type or size of patio gazebo you choose, there is one thing to consider. Some people will use a patio gazebo on a raised deck, which in most instances, is fine. However,remember that while the gazebo may be lightweight, if it catches any wind or caught in the rain or snow, you are now dealing with added weight. While this might not seem like much of a problem,with the patio gazebo small and the weight distributed over a restricted space, the
deck may not be able to accommodate the weight. Therefore, prior to using a patio gazebo on your deck,make sure your deck can handle any additional weight. For this,check with the gazebo manufacturer for recommendations.

You will find that
patio gazebos come in some wonderful colors and designs. For instance, a blue and white or camel and white are popular choices in that they generally complement the appearance of the home. However, you can choose from solid green, white, red, and even find some floral designs. If the gazebo will be setup only occasionally, then you could probably go a little wild on the design but if you plan to keep the patio gazebo up all year round, it would probably look best if it matches or coordinates with the style and color of the home.

Monday 23 May 2011

Gazebo Deck Plans by Project Plans

Garden structures can make your home more beautiful and enchanting. Perhaps you've already seen movies or TV shows where gazebos are featured. Almost every homeowner dreams of owning one and if you're looking for gazebo deck plans, you might be able to find the one you need online. There are many online stores offering these products as well as websites that offer detailed plans that can be downloaded. Be extra careful when using the 'free' plan because it is usually incomplete.

Check out the Project plans by
home design Alternatives. This was published way back in 2000 and in consists of 130 pages. It can be purchased online for only $1.74 for the used copy or $36.75 for the new ones. With this book, you can have access to plans for decks and gazebos, garages cabins, and sheds or small buildings.

Whether you're planning to create a bamboo or
metal gazebo, or a deck structure adjacent to pools, you can make use of the perfect plan. The plans are available in different designs. You can find screened structures and designs with small fences or even a pergola. For privacy, you can install curtains especially if you prefer to have a hot tub. For the decks, you will need to install buy lifters and other essential materials. To take advantage of discounts, you can purchase all the needed items from a local hardware store.

You can refer to the detailed plans to determine all the things you need. Oftentimes, wooden structures can be costly but if you're a wise shopper, you can find the best deals. Again, you should be reminded that the internet can provide you with many options. Look into the details of the project to find out if it suitable to build in the region where you live. If some factors are not ideal for your requirements, you can proceed with the next choice.


The
gazebo deck plans will be able to fulfill your dreams. A garden structure will enhance the overall appearance and will even increase the value of your property. Invest on the right plan that will meet the soil or load requirements. You are going to spend a hefty sum on your new project, so you might as well pick the perfect one. This is your chance to create a hangout place for the entire family and for your guests. Hurry and buy or download the plan that you like.

Tuesday 17 May 2011

UCanDo Gazebo Deck Plans

Are you planning to build a bamboo, oak, or metal gazebo? You can find the perfect gazebo deck plans online. There are many ways to enhance the outdoors. If you have small fences, this structure will surely standout and can be seem by the neighbors. With a bit of research, you can download your preferred plan. Make sure that you get only the detailed and accurate plans that will suit the soil type and the load.

Check out the UCanDo Project plans
. This paperback product was published way back in 1990 by the National plan Service USA. You can get a used copy of this book for only $5.96 and it will already provide you with more than 155 plans for gazebos, decks, storage sheds, garages, and many others. This is available in English language and is only 11 by 8.5 by 0.2 inches. Since this book is sold at a very low price, it can be a great option especially if you don't have any idea about the garden structure that you want to build.

If you have a pergola, you can place the
gazebo at the end of the structure and you can place flowering plants in the surroundings. The decks are idea near pools so that you have a great view of the outdoors. To spend the night outside, you can install lights. You might need to hire an electrician to ensure the safety of the wirings especially if you are planning to put curtains.

You are going to get only the
plan and it will not come with the supplies or materials, like that of the gazebo kits. You will be the one to buy the lifters, wood, tools, and other essentials. For a screened structure, you can purchase screens or mosquito nets. The latter can be removed when not in use. For instance, it you're planning to hang out in the garden for the night, you can put the mosquito nets in place using hooks.

The materials needed for the
gazebo deck plans can be bought from local hardware stores. You can save money with bulk purchases, so try to have a list of all the things you need. This type of project is only suitable for those with little carpentry knowledge and in using hand tools. Surf the web and learn everything you can about gazebos. This can be a costly addition to your garden but it will surely increase the property's value over time.

Gazebo DIY Basics

DIY gazebos are getting very popular, the job may be hard but it is very rewarding at the end.

For the
gazebo DIY enthusiast, the gazebo's size and location are to be decided in the first place. Once these two issues are decided, the rest are routine jobs such as ordering gazebo kits, gathering tools and the required materials. It is the opinion of exterior decorators that the gazebos placed near a house are more used than those placed far away from a house.

For the
DIY gazebo builder, there are the three major stages:

* Assembling the
gazebo's frame and its deck floor

* Assembling the
gazebo's walls

* Assembling the roof with finishing touches


Before you consider buying a
gazebo DIY kit, the following steps should be viewed in order to prepare the gazebo DIY builder.

Assembling the
gazebo's frame and its deck floor:

Usually this part takes 20 to 48 hours- depending on the skill of the builder. For a typical type of
gazebo, the following materials are needed:

* A screw gun and a few dozens of 2-1/2" screws


* A soffit stapler with 4/5 dozens of staples


* Level and framing square


* A pair of circular saw and chop saw


* Ladders and building blocks


* Cable, 15" or 16" anchors and fiberglass screening


Major steps for putting together the frame and
deck floor include-

1. With 3-1/2" screws, outside edges of six 2x6 rim joists are joined together. Here, the inner joists are joined at the corners. A helping hand should be used for lifting joists and sliding them into the right place.


2. Next, holes should be drilled and core block is screwed into its right place. Here, the shorter jolts should be places as well. The leveling with patio blocks is done at this stage- this begins from the top point. A block has to be placed at each of the corners and one final block goes to the center.


3. Now, the 13" anchors are to be used to bolt the base down. But it should be done only when the builder is sure that the base is level and squared. Next,
deck boards are placed by putting the fiber glass screening on top of the base. The fiber glass has to be stapled down.

4. Next,
deck boards are to be laid and the gazebo DIY builder is suggested to begin with the longest boards while working the way in. "Outermost" rows are to be aligned while screwing corners together. The DIY builder should walk around the frame to double check the deck to ensure the boards overhang the rim joists. They should overhang by the exact degree all the way around.

5. Next board circles should be laid consecutively while aligning them up. This alignment has to be done by fitting the angles together. Then holes are pre-drilled and later fastened by screws. This whole process has to be continued over and over.


Assembling the
gazebo's walls:

This part can take 16 to 48 hours as well. The tools and materials are practically the same as the project of building
gazebo's frame and decks. So, only some of the major steps are discussed:

1. Four screws are to be used to attach the 1x4 bottom brace right into the dado. It helps a lot for the
gazebo DIY builder if the areas of the spindles and fillet attachment are marked.

2. 1/4" crown staples (preferably two) spindles are to be attached. A second fillet has to be added to the other end of spindles. Make it stand while keeping the spindle section on top of the 2x4 base. Lining it up and staple it down finishes this part of the job.


3. Now, spindles are to be flipped over and the builder also has to get the spindles stapled over. The builder better not forget to rail cap of the outer fillet. Upper parts of baluster sections have to be assembled at this point- it is good to use a finish nail gun as the rails are thicker.


4. Next, corner posts are to be joined to the railing section. Use screws here. For extra caution, it is good to use a screw into the bottom brace and another 2 into the top rail. This has to be done with each of the rail sections. After completing the assembling of all the wall's sections- the walls can be finally raised now. By hoisting two of the walls, one has to be joined or attached to the other with 5/6 screws around each of the corners. This has to be done from each side. This process has to be done with the other walls as well.


In fact, all forms of
DIY gazebo kits come with detailed instructions. These are a simple sample of the detailed breakdown a DIY gazebo builder goes through. The job might look tedious but actually it is fun for the builder to reach up to the final stage of adding roof of the gazebo and giving it the finishing touches. Good luck for the gazebo DIY builder!

Wednesday 11 May 2011

Gazebo Deck Designs - How to Personalize to Create Your Own Special Haven

When you're considering gazebo deck designs, make sure to do your homework before making a final decision. For ultimate gazebo deck designs that are sure to delight and please for years to come there are many things to consider.

It's all too easy to look at a few
gazebo deck designs and simply choose one that looks good to you. The only problem is that once you actually begin to use your gazebo, you'll find things you wish were different, or you'll wish you had added this or that. Taking the time to define and pursue your options will help to ensure that you are thrilled with the end result.

Define Your Purpose


Start by defining the purpose of the
gazebo deck you want. What will be it's use? For daily relaxation? For outdoor parties? For a hot tub? At this point, don't limit yourself.

Think about all your options. Get a clear picture in your mind of the end result and the activities your
gazebo deck designs must allow and complement.

Gazebo
deck designs

Construction


Next, as you start your search for
gazebo deck designs that will fit your needs you'll want to think about the construction aspect. Learn about the different types of materials used for construction.

As you begin to make your choices think about the location of where your
gazebo will be and consider any weather conditions that are specific to your area. Different materials weather differently, so make sure to choose one that will weather well. This will help minimize your care and maintenance as time passes.

You'll also want to consider how it will blend with the style and construction of your current home. Many people will use or coordinate colors and styles of their home into their
gazebo deck designs.

Accessorize


Gazebo deck designs
have come to include a wide variety of accessories and ways to personalize for a design that is uniquely yours. You may want to consider things like benches, screens, windows, doors, built in tables and seats, as well as partitions. Some also have electricity, water, and other conveniences you may not have considered.

Hot Tub Gazebo in Different Designs

With your very spa, you can spend several hours in the outdoors. If you have a large yard space and sufficient money, you can set up a hot tub gazebo! This is a great garden addition that will not only make the surroundings beautiful but at the same time, it can also add value to the property. Just in case you have plans of selling the property in the future, you can sell it at a much higher price.

The needs of homeowners vary especially when it comes to
spa enclosures and gazebos. Because of this, manufacturers are always creating new designs to meet the demands. You can find structures with lattice works, sky-domes, oversized windows, and vaulted ceilings. Among the popular gazebos are the Classic, Del Mar, Manhattan, Supreme, Chalet, Whistler, Oasis, Royal, Somerset, and Laguna. Check out the pictures of these structures and you might be able to find the ideal one that can meet your budget.

There are many reputed dealers or manufacturers and suppliers of
gazebo kits or plans online. You can check out product lines under Sean Conway and Mai Tiki. These two brands can provide you with metal and wooden gazebos. The latter can create a Hawaiian atmosphere on your garden, and you simply have to add flowering plants. For metal alternatives, Sean Conway is the answer. metals are durable and can last for many years. With the powdered coat finish of most structures, you will not see any rust, even if years pass by.

Decide now whether you want a wooden or
metal gazebo. The flooring is another factor that you need to consider since you are going to get it wet when using the hot tub. Will you want an lofty spa or will you prefer one that is leveled to the floor? If you opt for the latter, you can choose a deck gazebo so that the tub is elevated from the ground that will allow proper drainage. When using woods, it would be best to opt for redwood since it is quite durable, and you can repair it with ease.

A less expensive option is a
metal gazebo. This is a durable structure, and the canopy can last for several seasons. If it is damaged, you can get a replacement. You have to make sure that the one you're getting is of the same model and size. Why don't you shop today for the ideal hot tub gazebo? You will surely amaze your friends and family with this elegant garden piece.

Friday 6 May 2011

Outdoor Gazebo Charm With an Outdoor Gazebo

An outdoor gazebo provides charm to a backyard like no other structure can do. Since there are numerous outdoor gazebo types, there is sure to be one that has all the features and the look that you want for your yard.

One of the most popular
outdoor gazebo designs is the garden gazebo. A garden gazebo is generally a wooden Amish style gazebo or a wrought iron Victorian gazebo type. A garden gazebo generally has a sitting area directly on the gazebo and it is adorned with numerous plants and flowers in and around the outdoor gazebo. A garden gazebo provides a place to enjoy the outdoors from within the gazebo in addition to being a garden decoration itself.

Another popular
outdoor gazebo plan is a hot tub gazebo. A hot tub or spa gazebo is actually a gazebo that is built around a Jacuzzi. In addition to looking nice, a hot tub gazebo is a great place to relax. Most hot tub gazebos are completely enclosed for providing privacy and for keeping insects away, allowing for nighttime use.

A patio or deck
gazebo is an outdoor gazebo that is designed to be placed over your patio or deck. This type of gazebo is usually made of a fabric type material that is upheld by a metal frame rather than the entire structure being made of wood or metal. The purpose of this outdoor gazebo design is to provide shade to the patio or porch area during hot summer days.

Thursday 5 May 2011

Building Codes Apply to Decks and Gazebos, Just As They Do For Home Additions Such As Sunrooms

Many home owners and other individuals fail to realize the importance of paying attention to detail and safety when considering a deck, gazebo or pergolas Just because the deck or other outdoor structure is open and free of walls or a solid ceiling, does not mean it is any easier to build safely. The same care needs to be taken with any building or remodel from a covered deck to a fully enclosed sunroom.

Home owners looking to build a new upgrade, such as a deck, gazebo or sunroom, have an advantage over a home owner with an existing deck. For one thing, the new home addition will be completed sooner due to not needing to perform the preliminary demolition of an old deck or structure. Whether the home owner is starting from scratch or replacing an existing deck, every new deck construction is required to have routine inspections.

Depending upon the part of the country, different locales have their own building codes specific to that region. Many times these building codes can even vary from county to county. It is important to verify that the deck builder is licensed to provide services in the county in which the deck, gazebo, or other addition is to be built.

Even though the average individual may not have any interest or experience in the construction field, it is important to frequently examine the construction as it develops. It is important to do so without interfering or interrupting the work crew, but should any concerns or questions come up, they should be directed towards the foreman or crew supervisor.

Generally, most decks share a few basic requirements. Ledger boards, which allow the deck to be anchored securely to the house, need to run the full length of the deck. Sufficient footings or foundation need to be installed properly. Some northern regions require the footings to be as much as 48" deep due to ground heaves during winter, while southern states, such as North Carolina, may not require the footings to be as deep. Railings are also a building code requirement should the deck or gazebo surface be of a certain minimum height.

Depending upon the use of the deck, special reinforcement may be required if there is to be excessive weight placed upon the deck. An example of this would be adding a hot tub or an outdoor kitchen and grill. Should heavier items be added without additional support, deck failure may result.

By providing the home owner with these few exceedingly brief and generalized examples of deck construction, one can begin to understand just a little of the specialized skill and attention to detail that is required of a deck contractor. One of the best methods to having this skill demonstrated before selecting a deck builder is to require references and access to a portfolio of past jobs.

Tuesday 3 May 2011

Finding the Right 10x12 Gazebo For Your Garden

The summer time is about experiencing and enjoying the open air, and determining which is going to be the best gazebo for you is normally about measurements and performance. If you intend to put together your own personal little garden retreat, then you will want to make sure that your garden shelter is really as well-designed as it can be.

In terms of sizes and shapes, the favourite size gazebo structure available in the marketplace is a 10x12 gazebo. This size is also regarded as the most typical gazebo replacement size, that mean it is possible to exchange your vinyl fabric cover or mosquito netting easily and with a minimum expense on your part.

The vast majority of party tents can be found in block and rectangle shape, although some are multi-sided and a few are domed. The building material that they're made of is often a robust steel frame with moisture and corrosion resistant vinyl fabric. This means they are exceedingly simple to wash. Watch out for the plastic-type support frames, as they can be susceptible to breakage. If you decide to purchase patio canopies with plastic frames, make sure you get a complete year warranty included.

A 10x12 garden gazebo is sufficient to allow for six people including a meal table and seats. The most typical models have convenient zip up panels and while searching for a patio construction of this type, it's also advisable to think about exactly how they are ventilated, since they may become hot in the midday sun.

Makes to check for include Garden Crafts, Formosa Covers and DC America. Garden winds may be approached for replacement canopies for many models and makes.