What are the Pros and Cons of an Iron Gazebo?

An iron gazebo can be an attractive and strong addition to any backyard or courtyard. Iron is a good choice for gazebo material because it is aesthetically pleasing and strong, and depending on what type of iron is purchased, it can be relatively affordable. An iron gazebo will be quite heavy, however, and one should remember that it is likely to be a permanent structure rather than a portable one. While the color of the iron used for a gazebo can vary, the most commonly used color is black; silver or gray are the second most commonly used colors, while brighter colors are rarer.

The wrought iron gazebo is perhaps the most sought after type of iron gazebo, though the cost of such iron will prohibit many homeowners from purchasing one. Wrought iron is iron that is worked by hand into a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs. It can be worked into elaborate design schemes, and the finished product is often quite beautiful. Wrought iron has become less and less common, however, because it is cost-prohibitive and it takes a skilled laborer to make such a gazebo. Cast iron is more commonly used because it is quicker and easier to make, and the finished product is much less expensive. Iron is heated into liquid form and then poured into casts to harden. The shape of the cast iron gazebo depends entirely on the type of mold used, which means any shape is possible.

Iron gazebos will be quite heavy, so one should expect the gazebo to be a permanent fixture. The iron can be sunk into concrete or concrete footings for stability, or the iron can be dug directly into soil. Concrete footings will help prevent corrosion and rust, and it will also add stability to the structure, so pouring footings for the gazebo is always a good idea. Initial installation of the iron gazebo can be difficult because of the weight of the structure and the need to pour footings, so one should be sure he or she is ready for the involved installation before purchasing.

A gazebo made from iron will need some upkeep, but not much. They are usually coated with some sort of protection from the weather, such as a PVC coating or other waterproofing material, and if this material should wear out, the owner will have to reapply it or other wise protect the iron from rusting. Cleaning the iron is not difficult and can be done with a garden hose or a wet rag.