Single-pitched grape gazebo made of metal with a polycarbonate look. Polycarbonate gazebo: how to make it yourself

For a comfortable stay at the dacha, it is important to have all the necessary communications. Moreover, a well-thought-out landscape design, which will serve as your business card, also plays an important role. When designing it, it is important to pay special attention to the location of each individual element. Often, a country house is equipped with additional buildings that make staying at the dacha even more enjoyable, for example, a summer kitchen, barbecue, swimming pool, gazebo, etc. As for the gazebo, today there are many original ideas on how and what to build it from. Recently, do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebos have been built quite often. This is explained by the simplicity of the design, as well as the ability to do the work yourself. In this article, we will take a closer look at all the stages, from creating a project to decorating the gazebo.

Considering that polycarbonate can be given various shapes, there is an excellent opportunity to install an original gazebo at your dacha, which will serve as an excellent addition to the landscape design.

Polycarbonate can simultaneously serve as both the roof and walls of the gazebo, protecting from the scorching sun and wind and rain. To do this, the polycarbonate is bent into a semicircle and the structure will resemble the shape of a barrel. This type of construction is considered the simplest and at the same time original. The advantage of this method is that you do not have to cut the sheet of material, since its standard length of 6 m will completely cover the two side walls and the top of the gazebo. The sheet width is 2.1 m, which is also quite enough for a small gazebo. If desired, you can fasten two sheets to create a gazebo 4.2 m wide.

You can also make a gazebo in the form of a canopy. In this case, complex processes will not be required. The main thing is to install the support posts, make a frame for the roof and cover it with polycarbonate. Moreover, it can be decorated in any style. If we talk about non-standard and original design solutions, then this is, of course, a gazebo-sphere. Its construction is a complex and labor-intensive process. After all, it is important not to give the polycarbonate the shape of a sphere, but also to carefully bend the metal profile.

Very often wood is used as the basis of the structure. Everything is simple here as you will need to make a frame from bars and sew it up with polycarbonate. As you can see, there are many ideas on what shape to give to a summerhouse gazebo using this material. In more detail, you can consider possible ideas in the photo section at the end of this article.

A polycarbonate gazebo has a number of positive aspects, including:

• The entire structure has a relatively light weight, since a powerful foundation and frame should not be made for such material.
• Simplicity and relatively quick installation.
• In terms of cost, such a gazebo will be cheaper if a metal profile or wood is used for the base of the structure.
• The ability to combine with various types of building materials, as well as give gazebos different shapes.

As for the advantages of polycarbonate itself, the following can be highlighted:

• UV resistance;
• resistance to temperature changes;
• easy to drill, cut and bend;
• not afraid of humidity;
• high strength;
• durability;

All this together will make a gazebo made of this material a reliable, beautiful and modern structure at your summer cottage. Now we can proceed directly to the description of the manufacturing process of this structure.

In its properties, polycarbonate is vaguely reminiscent of glass, however, it has a large number of positive aspects of conventional polymers. There are different shades of this material. However, the color of the material does not in any way affect the quality of the product. Therefore, when choosing a material for a gazebo, pay attention to the following characteristics:

• The elongation level is not less than 55 MPa.
• Under the influence of temperature, the size change limit is no more than 0.3%.
• Strength and bending strength is not less than 90 MPa.
• Melting point is not less than 130°C.
• The minimum temperature level is -25°C.
• Light transmission is not less than 50%.
• The noise absorption level is not less than 5 Dts.
• Impact strength is not less than 25 kJ/m 2.

By paying attention to these parameters, you can purchase high-quality polycarbonate that will last for a long time. And at the same time, you should not neglect these indicators, since polycarbonate is an important component of the gazebo.

First of all, you should make a project for the future gazebo. To do this, it is important to decide in advance what material the wall frame and roof will be made of. If you use wood as support posts, remember that it requires constant care. Otherwise, the wood will very quickly lose its presentable appearance. Taking this into account, in most cases preference is given to metal supports. The strength of such a frame will be high, and maintenance will be minimal.

There is another option for making support pillars from natural stone or brick. Considering that the weight of such supports will be large, it is necessary to make a better foundation. Moreover, using this technology, it is possible to make a closed gazebo that can be used even in bad weather. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the process of building a gazebo based on a metal frame.

Let's start building: from profiles and polycarbonate

To build a gazebo, a profile pipe or corner is usually used. Using this material, you can make a reliable frame that will withstand any wind loads. Let's consider the stages of the construction process from profiles and polycarbonate.

To work, you may need the following set of tools, which we will consider using the example of manufacturing a metal structure:

• Bulgarian;
• screwdriver;
• hacksaw for metal;
• Screwdriver Set;
• shovel;
• welding machine.

You may also need the following consumables:

• nails and rivets;
• nuts and screws;
• self-tapping screws;
• dye;
• metal brush;
• sandpaper;
• cement mortar/sand/crushed stone.

This is a basic set of materials and tools. Depending on the circumstances, it may be different.

Considering the light weight of the gazebo, almost any place for its installation is suitable. It is good if the chosen site is level and located on a hill. Accordingly, rainwater will not accumulate in this place.

If you approach the choice of the location of the gazebo from a practical point of view, then it is very good if it is in the shade, near a pond, if there is one on your site. Even in the hottest weather, there will always be a breath of coolness near the gazebo.

It would be good if it was installed not so far from a residential building or summer kitchen. This will allow you to avoid wasting time walking to bring food. Some people combine such buildings with a barbecue. So, you can sit in a gazebo near a pond and eat food cooked over a fire. What else could be the best holiday with family or friends on another weekend?

First of all, markings should be made. To do this, it is necessary to determine the points where the support pillars will be installed. The previously drawn up project will help you with this. Depending on the shape of the gazebo, square, rectangular or something else, determine the location of the pillars. At this point, drill holes in the soil with a garden drill.

At the bottom of the dug hole it is necessary to lay a cushion of sand and crushed stone 20–30 mm thick. Each layer should be thoroughly compacted to eliminate the possibility of settlement. After this, weld the strips crosswise onto the bottom of the metal pipe. This will serve as a good base for support.

The installation of pillars must be carried out strictly vertically. Make sure that the supports are the same size. Otherwise, you will have to trim them in a very uncomfortable position, standing on a stepladder and cutting with a grinder.

The pillars themselves are concreted. During this process, install spacers so that until the concrete sets, the supports do not tilt to either side.

When the pillars are already installed and the concrete has set, you can begin making the frame. It can be done using two methods: welding or bolting. In the first case, you will need a welding machine, as well as welding skills. In the second case, the frame is assembled as a constructor.

In any case, the assembly principle is similar. All pillars are connected into one unit by upper jumpers. At this stage it is already possible to form the roof. Most often this is a pitched roof. Therefore, it will be necessary to attach additional crossbars to which the polycarbonate will be fixed.

As for the walls of the gazebo, it will largely depend on its purpose. If this is an open gazebo, then there may be no walls. If you want to sew them up, you will need to build a sheathing on which the polycarbonate will be attached.

As for arranging the floor in a polycarbonate gazebo, it can be done in several ways. For example, you can concrete the area, lay out paving slabs or build a wooden platform. In the latter case, the floor will rise above the ground level, which will completely prevent water from flowing into the gazebo area when it rains.

To make a wooden floor, a corner is welded to the posts around the perimeter, the shelf of which will be directed inside the gazebo. A wooden block will be attached to it. Afterwards, beams are installed and secured onto the block in increments of 500 mm. Upon completion, the floors are covered with floorboards, decking, plywood or OSB boards.

In order for a wooden floor to last for many years, its surface should be varnished and impregnated with an antiseptic against rotting.

Another option for the foundation is to fill it with sand, this is especially true if the gazebo is located near a pond. In this case, it is recommended to install a small border around the perimeter of the gazebo. It is best to fill it with fine sand, as it is much more pleasant to the touch.

The last stage of construction is the fastening of polycarbonate. To speed up the process of cutting sheets, you can use a circular saw with an aluminum disc. Typically, sheets with a thickness of 8 mm and a honeycomb structure are used for the roof of a gazebo.

Before you start attaching the sheets, make sure that there is no possible contamination, water or leaves inside the polycarbonate. All this can be removed with a stream of compressed air.

Also, do not remove the protective film from the surface of the sheets until the end of the work. When the sheets have been measured and cut into the required lengths, the ends of the material should be treated with sealant and covered with a special end profile. Alternatively, you can use aluminum adhesive tape.

To fix the material, use special screws that are equipped with a rubber gasket. Do not clamp them all the way, otherwise this may deform the material. To tighten the screws, first drill holes in the profile. To do this you will need to make precise markings. At the same time, make sure that the fastening pitch is the same.

Be sure to use a joining profile to connect two sheets of polycarbonate. When joining, additionally use a sealant, such as silicone.

When working with polycarbonate, it is important to adhere to several rules, so that the gazebo will have an attractive appearance, and the fastening of this material will be done correctly:

• It is better to carry out installation work in calm weather. Otherwise, the leaf may fly away in a gust of wind.
• After cutting, be sure to remove dust and chips from its cavity.
• Holes for fastening should only be made between the ribs.
• Holes from the edge of the sheet should be made no less than 40 mm.
• Be sure to treat the ends of the polycarbonate with sealant and put on a special end strip.

Finally, you should pay special attention to finishing work. Perhaps you want to decorate certain sections of the walls or ceiling. Moreover, the roof from the bottom side will not look very beautiful if the profile pipe is visible. Therefore, the ceiling can be sewn up, for example, with plastic or wooden lining. This also applies to support pillars. If desired, they can be covered with decorative or natural stone.

Moreover, additionally think about decorating the gazebo. Be sure to connect the electrical wires. This will allow you to use the gazebo even in the dark. If it is located far from the nearest line, then you can purchase battery-powered lamps. It is also worth painting the metal frame in the desired color.

The surrounding area should also be decorated. For example, build flower beds, make beautiful paths or paths. It would be a good idea to install garden figurines and the like. Decorate the surrounding area so that you enjoy spending time in the gazebo.

The presence of furniture, such as a table, chair or benches, is also important. You can use pallets for this. Today there are many interesting ideas in this regard.

So, we examined with you the features of making a simple gazebo, which is based on a metal profile and polycarbonate. If you know other subtleties of how to make a gazebo, then leave comments at the end of this article. You can also view finished drawings and photos. You can use ready-made projects or take an idea to develop your own gazebo project.

Video

Photo

Unfortunately, the pace of modern life does not allow everyone to spend time in the fresh air, but when they do, they often have to breathe in a polluted atmosphere. A polycarbonate gazebo in the courtyard of a private house or cottage will help correct the situation, where you can enjoy nature with people close to you. In the photo below you see one of the options for such a structure.

Polycarbonate gazebo

When arranging your garden plot, you will probably think about comfort, for which a structure such as a gazebo or even a simple canopy will never be superfluous. They are very conveniently made from transparent polycarbonate (PC) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). At the same time, transparency does not interfere with choosing the desired shade of the material - it can have a red, brown, orange, green, blue, yellow or purple tint.

Positive qualities of polycarbonate gazebos

Polycarbonate goes well with other materials

We can safely say that such an application to a private house or cottage has a number of undeniable advantages and these are:

• the light weight of the structure - this fact indicates that it is not necessary to pour a foundation for the gazebo. It can be installed directly on the ground and then moved to another place and this is a serious advantage over other architectural structures;
• It is not necessary to use the services of an experienced specialist - you can do it yourself, taking into account the characteristics of your personal plot, soil and the house itself. Of course, a gazebo can be purchased on the market, but when installing it yourself, you will take into account all the sizes according to the expected number of vacationers;
• affordable cost of materials - as a rule, such structures are made of cellular polycarbonate, since it is stronger than cast polycarbonate. But at the same time, compared to other materials (wood, brick, metal), PCs have a fairly low price;
• the possibility of combination with other materials is a profile or round pipe, a variety of lumber, brick and concrete blocks.

You can also consider the positive characteristics of polycarbonate itself:

• polycarbonate is easy to cut;
• such material easily bends in any direction;
• it is easy to drill;
• for a PC, both high and low temperatures that occur in nature, as well as their sharp drops, do not matter;
• this product is neutral to humid air and precipitation;
• does not ignite, but melts;
• has sufficient mechanical strength;
• the operational life is designed for at least 20 years;
• Polycarbonate is UV resistant and has excellent light transmittance.

Types and types of summerhouses made from PC

Before making polycarbonate with your own hands, you need to determine for yourself what it will be like. Below is a photo of various types and types of such structures.

Typical differences

Open type building

A budget option for construction is an open type of gazebo, which is even more like a canopy. In the top photo you see that only the roof is made of PC, and where there should be a wall (on the street side), a wooden mesh is installed in the form of a garden trellis, and grapes can be grown along it if desired.

Closed building

The closed type of PC structures allows you to hide there for rest or lunch in windy and/or rainy weather. This is, of course, very convenient, but construction will require large expenses.

Installation method

Portable option

On large and small garden plots, you can make a portable version of the gazebo, for example, like the one in the top photo. Such a structure can be moved from place to place, as well as assembled and hidden somewhere for the winter.

Stationary option

The photo above shows a stationary option with a slab foundation in which risers are installed. This is convenient because the platform always remains hard and there is no dirt there. Even if it is an open type of structure, with a slight slope, water from precipitation will flow onto the ground.

Design complexity

Drawing and dimensions in mm for a simple design

The image provided above shows a drawing and gives dimensions in millimeters for a simple portable structure made of metal profile and polycarbonate. Here on the frame it is possible to mount benches, which is very convenient for such structures. In terms of the cost of the material, the construction turns out to be very profitable and almost every family can afford it if desired.

Complex hexagonal design

Due to their complexity, such designs can only be completed by specialists. For example, to evenly calculate six angles at equal distances from each other, you will need knowledge of applied geometry. It is even more difficult to make a hip roof from PC.

Equipment

With barbecue and grill

In some gazebos, not only tables and benches are installed, they may also have an exhaust chimney. This is very convenient for relaxation, because you can fry kebabs, meat or fish outdoors and in rainy weather. In such cases, the chimney is lined with bricks so that it does not heat up too much and the PC does not melt. The joints at the outlet are sealed with heat-resistant glue for fireproof materials, for example, ORTNER or KARSTUMIZTURIGA.

Note. Sometimes gazebos are made not only for relaxation, but also for decorative purposes, decorating personal plots with them. In such cases, designs are obtained with increased assembly complexity, but this is precisely the moment when the end purpose justifies the means.

Different PC designs

Various PC and metal designs

The most common materials from which frames are made are lumber (timber, board, block, rounded log) and metal (profile and round pipe). They are most often square in shape, but can also be rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal and round - it all depends on the wishes of the owners.

Design

A simple PC gazebo project

For construction, first of all, you need to decide on the site according to the following parameters:

• presence or absence of slope;
• the presence of holes and bumps in the ground;
• determine windward and leeward sides;
• trees, shrubs, their branches and root systems growing at close range.

The structure of the foundation and the presence of additional work during preparation depend on these indicators. When everything is decided on the site, choose a design and prepare drawings taking into account the following indicators:

• mass of the assembled structure;
• architectural complexity;
• geometric parameters.

All of the above will also affect the type of foundation and the possibility of its absence.

Video: Selection of gazebos

Preparation

Manual soil leveling on a personal plot

If the garden plot has a slight slope, then, of course, it is better to plan it out in order to create a horizontally level area for construction, but this is not always possible. In some places, the slope can reach 10⁰ or more - here planning will no longer help and you will have to build a strip or pile foundation.

Also, the root system and branches of trees (shrubs) can interfere with construction. Therefore, having decided on the planting location, the branches are pruned and the roots are chopped so that they do not destroy the foundation.

Note. Even before pouring the foundation, you need to determine the shape of the future structure, as well as prepare all the materials necessary for this.

Selecting a base

Strip foundation

The most common type of foundation is considered to be its strip version, and for good reason. On such a base you can build small architectural structures from a variety of materials: wood, hollow metal profiles, reinforcement, brick and concrete blocks. If we take into account the fact that the weight of the building will be no more than 300-400 kg, then the tape can be poured into a trench 30-40 cm deep. But this is only suitable for stable soils, and in unstable soils at such a depth during the spring thaw, the base may warp or twist. There are only two options here - either lower the tape below the freezing point by 30-40 cm, or use a pile-screw base.

Pile-screw foundation with a metal top grillage

For unstable soils, which are most often water-saturated areas, as well as on large slopes, screw piles are used. Due to the length of the rod, they penetrate the ground a meter or more, which allows them to compensate for instability and slope of the site. It is noteworthy that in this case the grillage can be not only metal, but also reinforced concrete or wood - it all depends on the material of the frame.

Columnar foundation with wooden grillage

Columnar foundations are shallow, so they are used on stable soils and in areas where the slope is no more than 3⁰ or there is no slope at all. The columns are made of ordinary (single or double) bricks or concrete blocks. Such supports are installed only on a concrete pad and to do this, dig or drill a hole 30-40 cm deep, pour a thin layer of mortar into it and mount all the pillars strictly at a horizontal level. When leveling is completed, concrete is poured into the mounting holes flush with the ground level. As a rule, the grillage here is made of wooden beams with a cross section of 100×100 or 200×200 mm.

Hexagonal slab foundation

In technical terms, a slab foundation is perhaps the easiest to implement, but it is successful in design and requires only stable soil and an area without a slope. To pour concrete, first dig a shallow pit up to 20 cm deep and fill it with a cushion of granite crushed stone or screenings. It is not necessary to install beacons as on a screed - leveling can be done using formwork. The floor is most often made with a slight slope so that water from precipitation that gets inside can drain.

Quadrilaterals and polygons

Definition of 90⁰ angle

To build a quadrangular foundation, right angles are needed, since the installation of the entire architectural structure depends on this. To do this, drive a peg into the corner of the future base, to which you tie two wires (the thread stretches) of 3 and 4 m. If the distance AC is made exactly 5 m, then the angle ABC will be 90⁰.

Dividing a circle into 5 parts

For a pentagonal gazebo, draw a circle according to the size of the future foundation: drive a peg into the center and tie a wire to it along the length of the expected radius (compass). First, divide the circle into 4 equal parts, cutting it along the diameter, and you get the upper corner of the pentagon (A). Now cut the radius strictly in half and, having set the radius AE, divide the circle from point A at points 1 and 2. From the resulting points, cut the circle along arcs CB and BD. This will give you an equilateral pentagon.

Equilateral hexagon

To obtain an equilateral hexagon, randomly select a point and measure the radius A0. From point A, cut the circle at points F and B. Then cut the circle from each point obtained. This will give you an equilateral hexagon.

Frame assembly and polycarbonate cladding

Assembly steps

Above you see a selection of step-by-step photographs with a brick frame. But it can also be concrete blocks, a metal profile or a wooden beam.

Installation of risers

Fixing supports in concrete

Of course, it is best to fix the supports in concrete, but this is only possible for a strip or slab foundation. For the grillage of the pile-screw foundation, metal and wood are used. This means that metal poles are welded, and wooden ones are fixed with corners in a vertical position.

Frame assembly

Frame assembly

To assemble the frame, you first need to attach the Mauerlat to the installed supports. Then, if the spans turn out to be very wide, divide them with additional supports. If the gazebo is closed at the bottom, then jumpers should be placed between the risers.

Polycarbonate sheathing

The self-tapping screw must be screwed in at right angles to the PC

The screws must be screwed in at an angle of 90⁰ to the PC, and in addition, they must have a press washer. For the profile frame, metal screws are used, pre-drilling holes at the screw-in site, and wood screws are screwed into the wooden frame.

Note. When a gazebo is made from polycarbonate with a pitched roof, the slope is adjusted with supports. But if the roof is gable or even multi-slope, then this is a topic for a separate article.

Video: Homemade gazebo

Conclusion

Now you have learned the basics of making polycarbonate with your own hands. If you want everything to work out for you, don’t be afraid and then the construction will be crowned with success.

How nice it is to sit in the fresh air on a warm summer day, enjoying the coolness with your family and friends.

“Utopia,” you say. No, I will answer, the happy owner of a polycarbonate garden gazebo.

Arranging a plot or yard involves creating a certain level of comfort, one of the required elements of which is a gazebo or at least a canopy.

Among all the variety of types and designs, a special place is occupied by a garden gazebo made of polycarbonate or plastic (polyvinyl chloride) - light, transparent, ideal for a summer house, can be placed near or in the garden.

Advantages of polycarbonate gazebos

• low weight of the structure. This means that a foundation does not always need to be poured under it. You can install it anywhere, and if necessary, move it to another place, dismantling only part of the structure;


• opportunity to do it yourself. Of course, you can buy a ready-made gazebo. On the market, such gazebos are presented in all possible options. But by doing it personally, you will emphasize your individuality and take into account all the nuances of the climate, architectural design, soil and general appearance of the site;


• affordable cost of materials. Cellular polycarbonate is an inexpensive material. And the frame does not require the use of expensive profiles. As a result, its price will be lower than the cost of a wooden brick or wrought iron gazebo.


• possibility to combine. Polycarbonate goes well with any of the existing materials. And even if you use polycarbonate itself, you can come up with many finishing options. This is due to the advantages of the material itself.

Pros of polycarbonate:

• polycarbonate is easy to cut;
• bends well both along and across;
• drills without problems;
• is not afraid of high and low temperatures, as well as their sudden changes;
• can be used in humid climates;
• does not burn;
• durable enough;
• estimated service life is 20 years.
• ideal material for light-transmitting structures. It has increased resistance to ultraviolet radiation and at the same time allows sufficient daylight to pass through;

Based on this, we see that there is no better solution for a summer residence than building a gazebo made of polycarbonate.

Gazebos for summer cottages made of polycarbonate - types and types

Before we get started, let’s figure out a little about which gazebo to choose. There are several types and types of polycarbonate gazebos:

1. by type:

open;

closed;

2. by installation method:

portable;

stationary;

3. according to design complexity:

can be a light canopy;

or can be made in the form of a complex structure;

4. by level of equipment:

gazebos with or without barbecue;

5. according to the function performed:

bearing a functional load;

performing, among other things, a decorative function – garden decorations.

Shape: rectangular, round, square oval or polygonal.

The appearance determines the complexity of installation and the required material.

Polycarbonate gazebo construction

A very common approach to making a homemade gazebo is to install a metal frame from a profile and then cover the walls and roof with polycarbonate. At the same time, wooden beams are not much inferior in popularity. It all depends on preferences and the specific task.

How to make a polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands?

The answer to this question is contained in this detailed step-by-step instruction manual for making a closed stationary gazebo.

Design work

1. We determine the installation location taking into account the following factors:

• presence of a slope;
• presence of unevenness on the surface;
• Rose of Wind;
• shrubs and trees or their branches growing nearby.

2. We remove all unnecessary things from the installation site and perfectly level the surface.

If your site is ideal, then you can’t imagine anything better - there will be less work, and you will be pleased with the green grass under your feet.

3. Select a design and prepare drawings.

This takes into account the following:

• weight of the structure;
• its complexity;
• sizes.

All this will affect the foundation requirement.

Preparatory work

We select the material for arranging the frame of the polycarbonate gazebo.

For this you can use: wood, metal, stone.

• Wooden frame (timber)

Advantages: naturalness, environmental friendliness, high aesthetic properties, low cost, widespread, accessibility.

Disadvantages: high maintenance requirements, fragility, dependence on weather conditions.

• Metal frame (profile, corner)

Advantages: strength, reliability, long service life.

Disadvantages: high cost, higher price compared to wood.

• Stone frame (brick, natural stone or concrete)

Advantages: naturalness, long service life.

Disadvantages: difficulty of replacement, installation time, significant weight.

Site marking

• determine the location of your future gazebo;
• level the desired area of ​​land;
• cut off branches that will interfere with the height of the gazebo.

Pouring the foundation

If the design of the polycarbonate gazebo is light, you can skip this stage and limit yourself to installing the supports.

Types of foundation for a gazebo:

tape;

columnar; monolithic.

The choice depends on the degree of solidity of the structure being built.

Installation of supports

• calculate the required number and location of supports;
• install supports and concrete, or bolt to a concrete base.

Frame installation

The manufacture of the frame is no less important element of the construction process. The lack of frame elements will lead to the fact that it will be light and will not allow the polycarbonate sheets to be securely fastened.

Prepare frame elements, fasteners and tools.

1. for a wooden frame - nails or screws are suitable;
2. for metal - a welding machine or bolts and nuts;
3. if you use stone, then you will need cement mortar.

Connect all parts according to the drawing.

Helpful advice.
It is more convenient to connect the frame parts on the ground, and then mount them in sections.

Wiring installation

It is carried out if necessary and according to the technology for performing electrical work.

Construction of a polycarbonate gazebo with barbecue

Of course, this is not an obligatory stage, but it is with a barbecue or grill that most often one imagines a summerhouse.

Let us note right away that it is better not to use a portable grill under polycarbonate. Because smoke from the coals will accumulate in the gazebo.

Our task is to build a gazebo in which it will be cozy and safe.

Therefore, if you are planning a barbecue, you need to equip it before installing the polycarbonate. The materials for its construction can be used:

Stone.
The most common, as it gives the gazebo a respectable appearance and has a long service life;

Brick.
Its disadvantage is that bricks burn out faster than stone;

Plastered concrete.
It gets dirty easily with soot, but is also easy to clean.

Metal. It is better not to use a metal grill in a stationary form. Because, at the point of contact with polycarbonate, the latter will melt.

Roof for a gazebo made of polycarbonate

The roof can be single-pitched, gable or complex in shape - hipped. Finishing the roof with polycarbonate should not cause difficulties if done sequentially:

• preparation of material. To complete this part of the work, you need to place the sheet on a flat surface;
• apply markings to the sheet in accordance with the drawing;
• cut the material according to the markings;
• make holes for screws.

It is better to install cellular polycarbonate in parts. This way you will more accurately install the fragment in place and you will need fewer assistants.

Helpful advice.
Do not use nails or screws when installing sheets, as this may cause cracks.

It is optimal to use special screws that include rubber washers on both sides of the sheet (thermal washers that prevent leaks). A hole is pre-drilled for each fastener.

Seal the joints between the polycarbonate and the frame with transparent sealant. This will ensure the roof is sealed.

Wall finishing with polycarbonate and/or other material

This type of work is carried out after you have covered the roof with polycarbonate.

The principle of fastening is identical to the previous one.

Advice.
During the installation of cellular polycarbonate, you need to ensure that the stiffeners are positioned vertically, this will prevent the accumulation of moisture inside the sheet.

Gazebo interior design

The decoration stage includes the installation of all elements and the design of the gazebo inside. This can be a table, chairs, benches, shelves, vases, a bar counter and other attributes. The main rule here is the high quality of the materials used. Since a summer gazebo made of polycarbonate is not heated, temperature changes or high humidity can harm the furniture.

Exterior arrangement

This stage includes external work, which includes:

• painting or varnishing wooden wall elements;
• device ;
• breaking flower beds;
• installation of flashlights.

That is, everything that seems necessary to you.

Country gazebos made of polycarbonate - photos of beautiful options

Conclusion

This garden gazebo will be a wonderful decoration for your summer cottage and a favorite vacation spot for the whole family. And the instructions provided here will tell you how to build a polycarbonate gazebo yourself, without resorting to the services of third-party organizations.

To have a good rest, you need to work hard at it.

(c) Kashcheev E.

Attractiveness, low cost and easy installation - what trinity could be better for a gazebo? A self-made polycarbonate gazebo meets all these basic needs of owners of summer cottages and private houses, holiday homes and cafes.

Advantages and disadvantages

A gazebo made of polycarbonate will be a joy thanks to the following advantages:

• external attractiveness;
• large selection of design options;
• impact resistance (polycarbonate is 200 times stronger than glass);
• Ease of use;
• quick installation;
• withstands any climatic conditions and weather vicissitudes from -400 to +1200C;
• the low weight of polycarbonate reduces the requirements for supporting structures;
• the possibility of creating prefabricated structures for cleaning in winter;
• low cost;
• transmits light while blocking ultraviolet rays;
• moisture resistant and does not rot;
• completely fireproof (polycarbonate does not burn);
• absence of fragments and other dangerous phenomena in the event of a breakdown;
• The honeycomb structure of polycarbonate allows glass to retain heat in a room better and blocks sounds (sound insulation).

Such gazebos also have disadvantages. Among them:

• The presence of a frame made of a metal profile requires maintenance: cleaning from corrosion, painting. The wood frame also needs care - impregnation, varnishing;
• Scratches appear on polycarbonate quite easily;
• if the seams or edges of polycarbonate are poorly processed, the material begins to darken inside;
• solid structures do not allow air to pass through. On sunny days it can be very hot and stuffy inside the gazebo.

Attention! Since polycarbonate expands when heated, this should be taken into account when building a summerhouse.

The presence of shortcomings rarely discourages those who want to build a gazebo from polycarbonate, because it is one of the most flexible and easy-to-work materials.

Which polycarbonate to choose?

High-quality materials are the key to long service life of the product. This is also true for polycarbonate gazebos. What do you need to know to choose polycarbonate for a gazebo? What is the best material to buy?

First, decide how critical the service life of the gazebo is for you. The fact is that polycarbonate comes in 2 grades: the first (from primary raw materials) and the second (from recycled materials: plastic bottles and other similar products). Second grade polycarbonate can be determined by the following criteria:

• cracking sound when bending;
• sheet breakage when bent;
• inclusions, uneven color, low transparency;
• inappropriate weight. It is unlikely that you will be able to check this with the seller, but know that 1 m2 of high-quality polycarbonate with a thickness of 4 mm should weigh 800 grams, 6 mm - 1300 grams, 8 mm - 1500 grams, 10 mm - 1700 grams.

Secondly, you should decide on the thickness of the material, since it also plays an important role in the life of the structure. Thickness 4 mm – absolutely not suitable for a gazebo. 6 mm and 8 mm will be optimal. Choose between these types depending on the size of the future structure. Thickness 10 mm - suitable for any structure and will last for many decades with proper installation.

Advice! For a summer gazebo, it is better to choose light transparent colors of polycarbonate. It heats up less and does not distort sunlight and the space inside. It will be a pleasure to be in such a gazebo!

Options, drawings

To visually see how a polycarbonate gazebo will turn out, you need drawings. Before creating a sketch, be sure to solve some questions:

1. The purpose of the gazebo: as a table for feasts and communication, as a place for barbecue, as a children's playroom, etc.
2. Required dimensions.
3. Material for support posts.
4. Using a gazebo in winter.
5. Possibility of dismantling and moving for wintering or to another place.
6. Is gender necessary?
7. Will the structure be open or closed?

Having identified these points for yourself and once again looked at the exterior of the site, proceed to the drawing indicating the dimensions.

Advice! For a beginner in construction, it is better to choose a simple square or rectangular open-type structure.

The following design options for polycarbonate gazebos are possible:

• barrel is a simple design that requires only 1 sheet. Polycarbonate is bent along the frame and it simultaneously performs the function of ceiling and walls;

• a canopy is another simple structure, the manufacture of which requires only 4-6 supports, their strapping on top and sheathing for the roof. You can install a straight pitched roof, arched or gable;

• the spherical design will be difficult for a beginner. Especially if it has sliding doors;

• classic quadrangular gazebo design, but with a polycarbonate roof and walls. It is simple and should not cause any difficulties in installation. Sometimes such a gazebo is closed entirely, and sometimes the walls (partitions) are mounted only from below. It can be made from several types of materials, not only polycarbonate.

Step-by-step construction of a polycarbonate gazebo

How to make a polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands? There is nothing too complicated about this if you choose one of the simple designs. Let's look at the details of what should be done and how.

Location

Choosing the right location is the key to a quality and pleasant holiday. What you should pay attention to?

1. Ground water level. Even if the gazebo is built on a monolithic foundation and, even more so, if it is just on the ground, it is advisable that the area nearby is not flooded after heavy rains and you can easily walk to the resting place. In addition, if the groundwater level is low, you can avoid making a foundation at all, and limit yourself to butting to install pillars.
2. The presence of shading is an important aspect for a polycarbonate gazebo, because... the material gets very hot in the sun. The polycarbonate roof does not provide enough shade for a pleasant afternoon rest.
3. If the gazebo is open, choose a place without drafts. This is important for health.
4. The closer the gazebo is to the main buildings, the easier it will be to organize a good rest, install communications (electricity, water) and the less materials will be required to lay out the paths.
5. The smoother the terrain, the easier it will be for you to prepare a platform for the gazebo.

Drawing and preparation of materials

Based on the drawing of the future gazebo, you can calculate the required amount of materials and, possibly, adjust the dimensions. Standard sizes of cellular polycarbonate sheets: 2.1x6 meters and 2.1x12 meters. If you use monolithic polycarbonate to build a gazebo (it is more expensive), then you need to remember that it is sold in sheets of 2.05x3.05 meters. Some sellers sell half a sheet, others only whole sheets.

Metal and wood are suitable for the polycarbonate gazebo frame. Metal is more reliable and durable. The service life of the metal frame is comparable to polycarbonate. Wood is cheaper and easier to install, but if you use average-priced wood, its service life will be shorter than that of polycarbonate. Both metal and wood require periodic maintenance. Wood must be treated with impregnations against bugs, rotting and moisture absorption, and metal must be cleaned of corrosion and painted.

Foundation preparation

If the gazebo is temporary or only for summer use, it can be erected without a foundation. Support posts can be driven in or dug in. For greater reliability, use butting or concreting below the soil freezing level.

Portable summerhouses made of polycarbonate are made on a solid frame and do not require a foundation: it is enough to level a small area at the installation site.

If the gazebo is planned to be solid or you want to have a full-fledged floor, you can pour a shallow foundation up to 10 cm. To do this, just remove the top fruit-bearing layer, pour crushed stone and fill it with cement. It is better to concrete it immediately together with the supporting pillars to create a monolithic structure. The posts should be in holes of 50-70 cm. Any floor covering can be laid on top or concrete can be left.

Another option that is extremely rarely used in polycarbonate gazebos: a pedestal. It is quite enough to make a floor in a small or medium-sized structure. You can make a pedestal using pallets (by the way, you can build a very simple one) or an additional welded structure along the bottom of the supports, on which there will be a sheathing, and a floor on top.

Polycarbonate gazebo frame

As already discussed in the section on preparing the material, metal will be the best option for the frame: it will last as long as polycarbonate and requires less maintenance than wood.

For the frame, profiled pipes with a square section of 50x50 mm are best suited. They look more attractive than a welded structure and it is easier to attach polycarbonate to them. In addition, such transverse pipes are suitable for simultaneously fastening polycarbonate and benches. To connect the pipes to each other, use a 45x45 mm corner.

Roof for a gazebo made of polycarbonate

As a rule, a polycarbonate gazebo is covered only with this material, but soft roofing, corrugated sheeting or slate can also be used. Of course, a polycarbonate roof would look better. It is transparent and airy, attractive and harmonious. You can use the same polycarbonate as on the walls of the gazebo, or a material of a different color to separate the structural elements.

The roof is attached to the top frame frame in the same way as the wall panels: with a thermal washer with a lid. This ensures the best protection against moisture.

The roof can be pitched, gable or spherical. If there are joints of material on its surface, the seams should be carefully sealed with silicone and special tape. Cover the ridge of the gable roof with a standard profile for soft tiles. Its width is enough to protect the polycarbonate from water ingress.

Advice! The side and top ends of the material should always be covered with an aluminum or polymer profile. It is better to leave the lower ends open to allow accumulated moisture to escape.

Exploitation

Caring for polycarbonate is extremely simple: just water it with a hose or wipe the dirty areas with a damp cloth.

Attention! Do not use abrasives or household chemicals containing chlorine and alkali under any circumstances! They can damage the protective layer from ultraviolet radiation.

To decorate and make a cozy polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands, just add some little things:

• lighting. You can lay electrical wiring to a stationary gazebo before pouring the foundation, or install a battery-powered lantern for a mobile structure. As a temporary solution, you can run an extension cord there from the house and connect a lamp;
• paint the frame if it is metal, or treat the wood with stain and varnish;
• flower beds next to the gazebo make it more attractive and cozy, and also add a pleasant aroma;
• may indicate the path to a resting place or simply stand nearby as an exterior decoration;
• The inside of the gazebo can be made cozy with the help of flower pots (hanging flowerpots will look especially beautiful, exotic and original), fabric products (tablecloths, pillows, furniture covers), dishes, etc.

A polycarbonate gazebo that you make with your own hands will become a pleasant place to communicate with friends or family gatherings. If you still have any questions regarding its construction, choice of materials or decoration, ask them in the comments. We will be happy to answer them!

(18 ratings, average: 4,47 out of 5)

A country plot or dacha exists not only for work, but also for outdoor recreation. Therefore, it is quite natural to want to equip the territory with objects and buildings that provide coziness and convenience.

If a little space is allocated for the beds or the area is quite large, you can place a bathhouse on it, plantings of fruit trees that will delight you with beautiful flowering and pleasant coolness in the summer heat.

For kebabs lovers you can’t do without a barbecue and a convenient building with a roof, where they can comfortably enjoy this dish, regardless of the weather. Of course, we are talking about a gazebo. Recently, gazebos made of polycarbonate on a metal frame have become popular. The advantages of this option are the ease of work and the abundance of visual master classes on the Internet.

Material advantages

The uniqueness of polycarbonate as a building material for a summer house is visible from the following characteristics:

• possibility of bending in different directions;
• ease of operation with a drill;
• the ability to cut according to planned drawings;
• fire resistance;
• resistance to external mechanical damage;
• durability (such a gazebo will last at least 15 years);
• polycarbonate does not lose its properties in high humidity conditions;
• the strength of the polymer does not depend on the ambient temperature;
• the roof of the gazebo will allow sunlight to pass through well;
• UV radiation will not affect the color and quality of the material.

Types of structures

When the issue of building materials has already been decided, it is necessary to consider a number of other significant aspects of preparation for construction. The following information will help you plan the appearance of a gazebo with a polycarbonate roof.

By type of construction they are:

• Open with metal supports. In this case, people are not separated from the surrounding landscape.
• Isolated. This design is very useful in changeable climates with frequent rain and strong winds. For glazing, you can use polycarbonate windows for the gazebo.

Whenever possible to travel:

• Mobile. Suitable for those who like changes in the layout of their summer cottage. Lightweight materials are used here for easy dismantling.
• Sustainable. Involves installation in one place using cementation.

Taking into account the difficulty of execution:

• An awning made of a solid polycarbonate sheet, mounted on vertical bases made of metal or other materials.
• Complex design. The gazebo is designed based on a complex plan and drawings, taking into account the characteristics of the site. Additionally, glazing of gazebos with polycarbonate can be used.

Based on equipment:

• A gazebo with a dining area that will accommodate the whole family and friends.
• With a place for cooking, including barbecue. This will allow you to prepare food for a picnic or hold parties without interrupting communication with friends.

For the task being performed:

• A convenient multifunctional gazebo that protects from heat and humidity.
• Decoration of the site. In this case, an unusual design with windows and an original color scheme is used.

Gallery: polycarbonate gazebos (25 photos)

Design work

Having decided on the appearance of the gazebo, you need to think about the best location for it, taking into account very important details:

• the main wind direction on the site;
• green spaces in the neighborhood that will influence natural light;
• characteristics and composition of the soil (the method of attaching the gazebo depends on this);
• the presence of natural unevenness in the landscape.

Then the site of the future building is prepared for construction, taking into account:

• masses of the future structure;
• features of shape and materials;
• the size of the gazebo.

Durability of the gazebo will provide reliable support, which can be made of:

Tree

To build a polycarbonate garden gazebo frame, you need a solid foundation. Usually they work according to this plan:

1. Mark the boundaries of the future building on the ground.
2. Depressions of up to 1 m are made in the soil at the required points, into which a thin layer of sand no more than 5 cm is poured.
3. Prepare a liquid cement mixture for support.
4. Wooden poles are impregnated with a substance that prevents destruction. The part of the plank that will be in the ground is wrapped with waterproofing material.
5. Insert the supports into the recesses and level them.
6. The foundation is poured with the prepared cement mixture, the wooden supports are temporarily fixed so that they do not move.

Floor frame

When the foundation is dry, work begins on the floor of the future gazebo.

Roofing and wall finishing

The roof of the gazebo can be a simple flat one made of a single sheet of polycarbonate, a tent roof or a cone-shaped roof.

Installation of a covering with one slope:

1. The supports standing in the ground are connected to each other along the perimeter by wooden beams 10 by 10 cm in cross section, which are inserted into pre-cut grooves.
2. Using a drill with a wood drill, prepare holes at an angle into which stainless steel fasteners are screwed.
3. Then the supporting structure of the roof is mounted and a sheet of polymer is laid on it.

Usually the entire structure (except polycarbonate) is treated with paints and varnishes at will.

Metal

Gazebos made of metal and polycarbonate will last a very long time. As a rule, a metal profile or special tubes that are hollow inside are used for their installation.

Main installation steps garden gazebos are usually:

Despite the fact that the procedure is reminiscent of working from wood, construction from a profile has its own characteristics that you need to know.

Installation of supports and subfloor

First, they decide where the supporting elements will be installed in accordance with the plan.

Then do the following:

1. Holes are dug in the soil up to 1 m down and 10 cm in cross section.
2. Approximately 2 cm of the resulting hole is occupied by sand.
3. Metal supports are inserted into the holes and leveled, after which they are further strengthened from the outside and poured with a cement foundation.
4. Wait until the mixture dries completely.
5. Next comes the installation of the floor using a metal profile, which connects the supports at the base with stainless steel fasteners. Cross beams are fixed to it and floorboards are laid.
6. Often they prefer to cover the floor with ceramic tiles. This option will last even longer.

A metal structure is usually used to make a place for cooking. For installation, a frame made of non-combustible materials is used.

If you don’t have enough money or want to save money, you can simply pour a suitable natural filler onto the floor, taking care first to ensure that it does not spill out.

Frame formation

• Horizontal strips are attached to the metal supports by welding.
• Then a reliable roof profile is installed.
• The convenience lies in the fact that the structure of the future roof can be made at the bottom, and then simply installed in its place, firmly reinforced by welding.

Sheathing

Determine the material from which the roof sheathing will be made. You can opt for polycarbonate or choose other, equally reliable coatings:

If the choice still falls on a polycarbonate roof, you need to cut sheets of appropriate sizes and drill holes in the metal profile to install the covering. Stainless steel fasteners using connecting protective elements, the roofing material is connected to the frame. The screws should not be screwed in too tightly to avoid damage to the polymer.

The places where the polycarbonate sheets meet must be insulated to prevent rain from penetrating into the gazebo. This task can be easily accomplished by plastic ceilings, as well as polymer waterproofing, which can be matched to the color of the roof. At this point, the installation of the gazebo with your own hands can be considered complete.