6 Easy Steps for Buying a Gazebo

The gazebo has been a timeless outdoor structure for more than 5,000 years, dating back to ancient Egypt. Its purpose has always been the same: a peaceful place to rest, reflect, and enjoy the outdoors. Today, gazebos remain a favorite backyard feature, offering a perfect balance of beauty, shade, and comfort.

At Plants and Things, we carry gazebos designed to stand up to Minnesota’s unique climate while adding charm and functionality to your outdoor space. Whether you want a quiet reading nook, an entertaining space, or a backyard retreat, this guide will help you choose the gazebo that’s right for your home.

Built for Minnesota Weather

When you invest in a gazebo, durability is key. Our gazebos are built by trusted Amish craftsmen who use heavy-duty rafters, 2″ x 6″ roof and floor joists, and warp-resistant 4″ x 4″ posts for long-lasting strength and stability.

Minnesota homeowners know that the weather here can be unpredictable with hot summers, snowy winters, and plenty of wind in between. These gazebos are engineered to handle all of it, offering a solid structure that can withstand years of seasonal changes.

Many models also include screened floors and windows, keeping mosquitoes and bugs out while allowing fresh air to circulate freely. Add in the right seating, lighting, or even a gas fire table, and your gazebo can become a true outdoor living room ready for year-round enjoyment.

Step 1: Choose Your Shape

Gazebos come in three classic shapes: octagon, rectangle, and oval.

Your choice will depend on both the space you have and how you plan to use it. If you’re creating an outdoor entertaining area with a sofa, loveseat, or fire table, an oval-shaped gazebo often offers the best flow and seating flexibility.

For more traditional garden or lakeside placements, octagonal gazebos offer timeless elegance, while rectangular gazebos provide straightforward layouts ideal for dining tables or large seating groups.

Each shape creates a slightly different ambiance; no matter which you choose, the right furniture and accessories can make it uniquely yours.

Step 2: Pick Your Size

Once you’ve chosen the shape, it’s time to consider size. Gazebos come in a variety of dimensions to fit different spaces and uses.

Octagon gazebos typically range from 8′ x 8′ up to 20′ x 20′, with 12′ x 12′ being the most common size for backyards.

Oval and rectangular gazebos are available in sizes from 10′ x 10′ up to 12′ x 24′, offering ample room for furniture, décor, and guests.

Some of the most popular configurations, 10′ x 12′, 12′ x 14′, and 12′ x 16′, are large enough to comfortably fit deep seating, dining sets, or an outdoor bar setup.

When in doubt, size up slightly. You’ll appreciate the extra room for movement and flexibility when entertaining or relaxing.

Step 3: Choose Open, Screened, or Screened with Windows

This is where your gazebo’s function and personality really come to life. You can choose from three main styles:

• Open: A classic, airy look that’s perfect for gardens or patios where airflow and open sightlines matter most.
• Screened: Keeps mosquitoes and bugs out while maintaining that outdoor feel—ideal for summer nights in Minnesota.
• Screened with Windows: Offers the best of both worlds, providing bug protection and additional comfort in cooler or rainy weather.

Screened gazebos bring a nostalgic, cottage-like charm, while windowed options featuring glass or vinyl 4-track window systems extend your outdoor season well into spring and fall. These designs create a cozy, enclosed atmosphere that’s perfect for pairing with deep seating and a gas fire table.

Step 4: Select Your Material

The materials you choose will influence not just the look of your gazebo but also its maintenance level and longevity.

Most gazebos available through Plants and Things are built from #1-grade, 40-year-tested pressure-treated wood for unmatched durability. This wood is available pre-stained or ready for you to stain on-site, allowing for customization to match your home or landscape.

If you prefer a maintenance-free option, consider a vinyl-wrapped gazebo in clay or white. Vinyl provides the same elegant look as wood without the need for staining or refinishing.

Flooring choices include traditional wood decking or AZEK composite decking, both of which are strong, stable, and easy to care for. Composite decking, in particular, offers long-term resistance to moisture, fading, and insects.

Step 5: Prepare the Ground

A well-prepared base ensures your gazebo remains level, stable, and beautiful for years to come. The good news? You don’t need a complicated foundation.

Thanks to their pressure-treated floor joists, most gazebos can be placed directly on the ground and leveled with concrete blocks.

For the best results, however, we recommend a 4–5″ crushed stone base. This type of foundation offers even support, excellent drainage, and a clean, finished appearance — while also discouraging moisture buildup and pest nesting underneath.

Step 6: Delivery Made Simple

Once you’ve chosen your ideal gazebo, our delivery process is designed to make setup effortless. Most gazebos arrive fully assembled and can be carefully transported to your desired location using our specialized shed and structure mover. This equipment distributes weight evenly and protects your lawn from damage during placement.

If your site has limited access, we also offer on-site assembly, ensuring your gazebo can be installed wherever you envision it — whether it’s your backyard, garden, or lakefront property.

Our experienced team handles every step of the process, so you can start enjoying your new outdoor retreat right away.

Built to Last, Designed to Enjoy

A gazebo is more than just a structure—it’s an investment in your lifestyle. It’s where you’ll gather with friends, unwind after long days, and make memories for years to come. That’s why the gazebos offered by Plants and Things combine craftsmanship, durability, and design flexibility to fit any space or style.

If you’re ready to add comfort and elegance to your backyard, explore our Gazebo Collection, or visit our 16-acre campus in Elk River, MN, to experience our display models in person. See the craftsmanship up close, compare styles, and let our team help you find the gazebo that perfectly complements your home. You’ll find inspiration, expert advice, and quality you can trust — all in one place.