As the weather starts to cool down and the days get shorter, many of us begin to think about putting our outdoor furniture into storage for the winter.
If you have a gazebo, this is something you’ll want to do, to protect it from the snow and cold. But before you pack it away, you should do a few things to ensure it’s stored properly.
This blog post will give you tips on how to store a gazebo for winter.
Contents
- How to Store a Gazebo for Winter
- 1. Thoroughly clean your Gazebo
- 2. Take apart your Gazebo
- 3. Cover your Gazebo
- 4. Store your Gazebo in a Dry Place
- What to Do If You Have a Metal Gazebo
- 1. Sand Down the Metal
- 2. Apply a Primer
- 3. Paint your Gazebo
- What to Do If You Have a Wooden Gazebo
- 1. Clean your Gazebo
- 2. Apply a Sealant
- 3. Store Your Gazebo in a Dry Place
- Frequently Asked Questions on Storing a Gazebo for Winter
- Can Gazebos Stay Out in Winter?
- Can I Leave My Gazebo Up All Year Round?
- What Do You Do With a Canopy in the Winter?
- Author
How to Store a Gazebo for Winter
1. Thoroughly clean your Gazebo
Before storing your gazebo for the winter, clean it thoroughly. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew and also makes it easier to set up in the spring.
- You will need a hose, a soft brush, and mild soap to clean your gazebo. Begin by hosing down the entire structure to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use the soft brush to scrub away any stains.
- Rinse the gazebo with clean water and allow it to air dry. Once your gazebo is clean and dry, you can store it until next year.
2. Take apart your Gazebo
If possible, store your gazebo in individual pieces. This makes it easier to set up next year, and will also help protect the parts from damage.
- To take apart your gazebo, start by removing the canopy.
- Remove any side panels or curtains.
- Take down the frame of the gazebo. Once your gazebo is dismantled, you can store the parts in a dry, safe place.
See also: Are gazebo canopies universal
3. Cover your Gazebo
Once your gazebo is clean and dry, cover it to protect it from the elements. If you have a storage shed, you can store your gazebo inside.
You can cover your gazebo with a tarp if you don’t have a shed. Secure the tarp, so it doesn’t blow away in the wind.
4. Store your Gazebo in a Dry Place
If possible, store it indoors to protect it from the elements. If you must store your gazebo outside, put it on a raised platform, so it doesn’t sit in water.
Following these simple steps, you can easily store your gazebo for winter. Just clean and dry your gazebo before putting it away, and cover it so it doesn’t get damaged.
With a little effort, you can keep your gazebo in good condition for years.
What to Do If You Have a Metal Gazebo
Metal gazebos require special care during winter. If you have a metal gazebo, rust-proof it before putting it away. Other ways you can protect your metal gazebo include:
1. Sand Down the Metal
If your gazebo is made of metal, you must sand it down before storing it. This helps prevent rust and corrosion.
You can use a hand sander or an electric sander for this task. Be sure to use sandpaper with a grit of at least 120.
2. Apply a Primer
After sanding down your gazebo, you will need to apply a primer. This helps the paint to adhere to the metal surface. You can use any type of primer but read the labels carefully to choose one that is meant for use on metal.
3. Paint your Gazebo
You can use any paint. Choose one meant for use on metal. Apply the paint in thin layers, so it doesn’t run or drip.
Once the first layer of paint is dry, you can apply a second layer. Once you have painted your gazebo, it should be ready for winter.
See also: How do I keep my outdoor gazebo warm?
What to Do If You Have a Wooden Gazebo
If your gazebo is made of wood, you must take special care of it before winter. Wood is susceptible to damage from moisture, so you will need to take steps to protect it.
1. Clean your Gazebo
Cleaning helps remove any dirt or debris that could cause damage. You need a hose, a soft brush, and mild soap to clean your gazebo.
- Begin by hosing down the entire structure to remove any dirt or debris.
- Next, use the soft brush to scrub away any stains.
- Finally, rinse the gazebo with clean water and allow it to air dry.
2. Apply a Sealant
After your gazebo is clean and dry, you will need to apply a sealant. This helps protect the wood from moisture and damage.
You can use any type of sealant but read the labels carefully to choose one meant for wood.
3. Store Your Gazebo in a Dry Place
Once you have sealed your gazebo, you can store it for the winter. Just store it in a dry place, so the sealant doesn’t get damaged.
Frequently Asked Questions on Storing a Gazebo for Winter
Can Gazebos Stay Out in Winter?
If you have a hard-top gazebo made out of metal or plastic, there’s no need to take it down in winter. These types of gazebos are designed to withstand the elements. However, if you have a soft top gazebo or one made of wood, it’s best to take it down in winter and store it indoors.
Can I Leave My Gazebo Up All Year Round?
If you have a gazebo with a hard roof, you can leave it up year-round. This includes vinyl, metal, and composite wood gazebos. Gazebos with pressure-treated wood can also be left up year-round.
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it is best to consult a professional before leaving your gazebo up all year round. Otherwise, you should enjoy your gazebo for many years.
What Do You Do With a Canopy in the Winter?
Seasonal canopy designs are typically made from lighter materials that are not meant to be exposed to snow and ice. As a result, it is vital to remove your canopy before the winter season begins. This will help to protect the structure from damage and prolong its lifespan.
If you have a gazebo, take the mentioned steps to protect it from the winter weather. For hard-top gazebos, this means simply cleaning and drying them before storing them in a dry place.
For soft-top gazebos and those made of wood, you will need to take extra steps, such as sealing the structure and storing it indoors.
Well, there you have it. Now you know how to properly store your gazebo for winter it lasts for years and years. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be well on keeping your gazebo in pristine condition.
Reference
Outdoor Living Today: How to Winterize Your Gazebo and Garden
