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  • How to Build a Gazebo: Building the Frame and the Deck Floor
  • From "Weekend Handyman"
    episode WKH-201
    advertisement

    Click here to view a larger image.

    In this episode of Weekend Handyman, host Paul Ryan demonstrates how to build a gazebo from a kit.

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    Gazebos come in all shapes and sizes, either on the ground, up on a high building or on a deck. The shapes include square, seen here, ...

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    octagon ... or

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    hexagon -- the type built for this particular project.

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    Figure A

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    Figure B

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    Figure C

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    Figure D

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    Figure E

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    Figure F

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    Figure G

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    Half way through day one and the deck is finished. The walls are next.

    Time: 16 hours over two days.

    Difficulty Rating: This project rates a 2 on the Weekend Handyman scale.

    Materials:

    Gazebo kit

    Tools and other materials not included in the kit:

    2-1/2" screws
    Screw gun
    Staples and soffit stapler
    Level and framing square
    Circular saw
    Chop saw
    Ladders
    Building blocks
    16" anchors
    Cable
    Fiberglass screening
    Long 1x4's

    Day One

    Note: Before you begin this project, determine the size and location of the gazebo. Then order the kit and gather all the tools and materials you'll need to complete this do-it-yourself project.

    Tip: Experts have found that the closer you place your gazebo to the house, the more you'll actually use it.

    Putting the Frame Together for the Deck Floor

    1. The first step is to put together the frame for the deck floor. The outside edge of the floor is made up of 2x6 rim joists, which are screwed together.

    2. Screw six outside rim joists together (figure A) using 3-1/2" screws.

    3. Attach the six inside joists together at each corner.

      Tip: Have someone help you lift the joists up in the center of the base, slide the core block in (figure B) and then pound into place.

    4. Drill pilot holes and screw the core block into place.

    5. Next come the shorter joists (figure C) that have to be screwed into place.

    6. With the base of the gazebo constructed, it's time to level it with patio blocks as you go along, starting at the highest point. Put one block on each corner, plus one in the center.

      Note: The blocks should be hidden under the joists (figure D). If the base is not level, the decking and wall sections may not fit properly.

    7. Once the base is level and squared, be sure to bolt it down with three 13" anchors.

    8. Make a cut in the joist (figure E) for the anchor cable to fit in.

    9. Wrap the cable around the anchors and the gazebo frame and screw the anchor to tighten.

    10. Now it's time to place down the deck boards. First, lay down fiberglass screening over the base and staple it down. This will keep insects out.

    11. When laying the deck boards, start with the longest boards and work your way in. Line up the "outermost" row and screw the corners together (figure F).

    12. Walk around the frame to make sure the deck boards overhang the rim joists by the same amount (figure G) all the way around.

    13. Secure the frame by using 2-1/2" square-drive screws.

      Tip: When attaching the deck boards at the corners, it works best to pre-drill the holes with a 1/8" bit to help prevent the wood from splitting.

    14. Lay down the next circle of boards, lining them up by fitting the angles together. After they're all down you can pre-drill the holes and fasten them with screws.

    15. Continue this process with each circle of deck boards. Line them up in the corners and drill and screw them down one circle at a time.


    RESOURCES :
    Gazebo Kit (Mark's Cedar Sheds and Gazebos)
    Model Name: Sunset
    Model #: 12 ft. Hexagon
    Color: Cedar
    Manufacturer: Sunset Products, Inc.

    Product Information:

    • Precision cut components.
    • Screen kits available on all gazebo styles.
    • All gazebos come with cedar shingles.

    Mark's Cedar Sheds and Gazebos
    Website: www.marksgazebos.com

    Start-to-Finish Sheds and Gazebos
    ISBN: 0897214773
    Author: Ortho Books Editors
    Order this title from Amazon.
    Ortho Books
    Columbus, OH 43216


    GUESTS :
    Lou Peterson
    Owner, Mark's Cedar Sheds and Gazebos
    Website: www.marksgazebos.com

    Mark Peterson
    Owner, Mark's Cedar Sheds and Gazebos
    (See contact information above.)

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: