How to Anchor a Gazebo

There are several different ways to anchor a gazebo. However, only one of these methods will meet building standards. Anchoring can quite easily be done by yourself and is fairly straightforward. The standard method is to anchor the gazebo to concrete. However it is also possible to anchor the gazebo to threaded rods.

Step 1 – Footers

In most cases, a gazebo will need to be anchored to concrete footers. Normally there will be one footer for each gazebo post. It does not matter if the gazebo posts are wooden or metal.

Step 2 – Footer Spot

The footers should be beneath the ground level so they can be hidden by the gazebo. A good hole will be 12 inches by 12 inches by 12 inches. This is a standard recommendation though different gazebos may require different sized footers.

Step 3 – Cement

Mix the cement and pour it into the dug holes. In order to prevent the footers from cracking when anchoring the gazebo, it is best to let it dry for a minimum of 48 hours. Let the cement dry for longer if the weather is damp or humid. The main purpose of these footers is to have something sturdy to anchor the gazebo to.

Step 4 – Anchor Screws

Once the cement is dry, it is time to drill in the anchor screws. Each gazebo post will need to be anchored so a minimum of 2 screws per post is best. However the number of screws used will depend on the type of brackets. The anchor screws are then inserted into the post brackets.

Step 5 – Wet Concrete

It is possible to insert anchor bolts to wet concrete. This is used when leg plates are connected directly to the dry concrete. When using this option, be sure that the bolts are all square to the concrete. Otherwise, there will be issues when connecting the leg plates.

Step 6 – Concrete Pillars

Instead of pouring cement into the ground, it is also possible to anchor the gazebo to concrete pillars. However it will be necessary to disguise these pillars with bushes and other plants. Because these pillars can still be moved a strong wind may tip over the gazebo. They are not as sturdy as cement footers in the ground.

Step 7 – Thread Rods

A threaded rod can be used as an alternative to cement. On a minimum of 2 sides the gazebo will be anchored to the ground. Insert the rod at an angle into the ground. This will keep the gazebo in place. The rod should have a diameter of at least 2 inches and be a minimum of 2 feet long. In place of a threaded rod a 0.5 inch rebar can also be used.

Step 8 – Kits

There are several anchoring kits that will contain everything you need to anchor a gazebo. This will have a manual and can be used for specific types of gazebos. A gazebo kit should also come with the anchor equipment and instructions. Anchoring is critical as even a light wind can move an unanchored gazebo. If a strong wind should come along and the gazebo is not anchored then it can be completely ruined.