Gazebos cannot replace the umbrella totally. Most patios have at least one large cantilever umbrella or market umbrella that adds to the style and ambiance. However, when practical, adding a screened in gazebo to the patio can offer some benefits that most umbrellas cannot.
Gazebos can be anchored to the patio creating a permanent structure. The benefit of having a permanent structure on the patio is that the wind and rain will not damage it. Often, particularly with smaller market umbrellas strong winds can blow them over, taking a small lightweight table with it. An anchored structure is generally resistant to the wind and rain, offering a better covering that requires less care and maintenance.
Another advantage of the permanent gazebo is that it can blend into the style of the house, appearing to be an outdoor room rather than an addition or after thought. For those who love the color combination of the home’s exterior, it can be carried over to the gazebo as can the general style of the home. Umbrellas can be selected in a color that blends with the colors on the exterior house or they can be selected as a complement. However, it is impossible for the umbrella to reflect the style of the wood or wrought iron trim.
Decorating the complete patio has become as important as having a table with chairs within the area. Plants and decor are an integral part of creating a space that is cozy and comfortable. We have all seen patios that consist of a table, chairs, and a grill and no personality. The gazebo offers the opportunity to develop a personality on the patio. Hanging baskets full of colorful flowers can be added with the gazebo. If the gazebo is partially railed, it offers an additional background for container plants that require more shade than sun. The combination of plants that require direct sun and shade plants will provide a wider range of choices when decorating.
Screened Gazebo
In some areas of the country where mosquitoes and gnats are pesky in the evenings, the screened gazebo can provide a great place to dine in comfort or to relax for a nap on the chaise. Mosquito netting is available for some umbrellas and is included with some prefab gazebos. If the structure is to be permanent, screening the area will eliminate the need to deal with mosquito netting while providing all the benefits.
In fact, a screened in gazebo is much like adding a room to the home. The process is the same as screening in a back porch. The only difference is the gazebo sits independently and allows for air flow and sunshine from all sides.
While screening the gazebo can be done by the homeowner in some cases, we recommend that a professional should complete the process to prevent the screening from sagging or giving way. There is a definite art to the process.
While this discussion concerns a gazebo that is attached to the primary home structure by way of a porch or deck or as a part of an attached patio, it is important to note that the gazebo can stand independent in the yard. In this case, it may be of primary importance to screen in the structure, especially if the gazebo is set among trees and shrubs where gnats and mosquitoes may abound and where birds may seek refuge in case of rain.
There are definite advantages to adding a gazebo structure to the patio is space permits.