Easy D.I.Y installation, effortless style, and user-friendly year-round maintenance, gazebos are an integral part and a great addition to any backyard set-up. They provide shelter and shade as a perfect gathering spot for family and friends, allowing you to spend more time outdoors.
Thanks to the purchasing power of Big Box stores like Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, and Target, almost every homeowner can now install these decorative and functional features for less than $200.
However, there’s a catch; similar to a garage or house roof, a gazebo roof is susceptible to wear and damage, which ultimately calls for replacement. Gazebos are generally made with steel frames which almost always outlast the longevity of the canopy that covers them.
After some time, maybe weeks or months, the canopies of these features fade, rip, wear, and tear. All quite suddenly that homeowners are left with an unattractive backyard eyesore.
That means at some point, you will need to replace the canopy on your gazebo.
Replacing a Canopy on Gazebo Hard Soft Top
Due to their vulnerability to damage such as tearing, ripping, or sun-related deterioration like fading, soft top canopies are more frequent replacement than hard top canopies.
Even so, hard top canopies are also prone to damage, maybe you want to substitute the current style with something more elegant, or your canopy top was ruined and you are now considering a hard top.
Whichever the reason, we’ll be discussing the specific steps on how to replace the canopy for your gazebo. To get started, you are going to need the following tools:
- Ladders
- Work gloves
- Ladders
- Assistance from 1-3 people
- Pleasant weather
Replacement
Before you jump into the building process, go through the user manual and cross-check all pieces. Make sure all hardware is there and lined in accordance with the respective parts of the canopy.
Experts recommend that you work on a stable, level raised surface like a work table when assembling the panels on your gazebo. Note that there are four sides in the majority of hard top gazebo canopies, which should be affixed to the roof frame one by one.
Step 1
Grab a pitchfork, shingle shovel, or similar tool, and remove the extant roof shingles on your gazebo. Start from the lower edge of the roof up to the top. To break up the shingles, insert the blade of the tool you are using under the lower shingles and push it upward along the roof.
Step 2
Take out the unwanted felt paper underlayment and then use a claw hammer to pry up any existing nails. Proceed and remove all faulty pieces of wood from the roof.
Take the respective measurements of the pieces you just removed, and use them to cut/make replacements from new thick plywood sheets.
Step 3
This is where the new plywood pieces will be screwed into the roof rafters. Remember to check and ensure that every corner is flush. You can get one buddy holding the piece or boards in place while the other drills the necessary screws.
You will need 1 ½ inch long wood screws for the task. All screws should be hand tightened until the overall alignment is done and ratified. Once you’re satisfied, you can proceed and drill the screws further.
Step 4
Set one ladder in the center of your gazebo and a couple on both sides. Let one person stay in the middle to hold the gazebo. All panels should be flush. The last panel is likely to take a little longer as you might need to do some adjustments.
The guy at the center will be pushing up on the rest of the panels, while others line up the drills and panels as expected. You can now proceed by securing all sc rews using a power drill. You might want to try pushing up at the center to make sure nothing moves or lifts.
Step 5
Use felt paper underlayment to cover the roof and make sure the asphalt shingles you are using are of the recommended type. To attach the underlayment to the roof, use ½ inch wood staples with an interval of about 6 inches along the edge of the underlayment pieces.
Check that each bottom edge of the felt paper underlayment lays over the top side of each piece down the roof. Then use your hands to align the underlayment, remove air bubbles, and use a staple gun to apply staples.
Versatile Soft Top Gazebo
For those who are interested in attractiveness and versatility, soft top gazebos can be an excellent cheaper option.
These solid patio features provide superior shade at a budget price and can be a great alternative to traditional wood gazebos that will bring you safety against harmful UV rays.
They are developed with ultra-strong rip-stop fabric that features retractable options for more shades. So if you’re looking for a solid patio gazebo, something budget, versatile and attractive without breaking the bank, these gorgeous options are an ideal pick.
Soft top gazebos are also linked with various benefits including a high-quality gazebo frame, easy assembly, and durable water-resistant, fire-rated covers.
Durable Hard Top Gazebos
A hardtop gazebo can be a fantastic choice if you are looking for a super-strong and modern structure to protect you and your family from the blazing sun. This durable structure can take your relaxation to the next level by providing plenty of shade and style in your yard or open ground.
The strong roofs are built from powder-coated galvanized steel to ensure protection against elements and resistance to corrosion and rust. Homeowners can also choose from various colors that will blend seamlessly with most outdoor décor.
Metal Roof
A metal gazebo is basically a gazebo built with a metal roof. Metal gazebos typically cost a fraction of a standard gazebo, although they provide a good amount of protection from weather and elements and can deliver just about the same gorgeous appearance.
The roofs of these structures are made of fabric or treated galvanized steel to prevent rust and corrosion and enhance durability. Others are made with translucent polycarbonate material to provide years of enjoyment.
