How to properly close a gazebo with polycarbonate. Gazebo made of metal and polycarbonate: how to make it yourself. From a profile pipe

An excellent place to relax and simply decorate the yard of a private house or dacha will be a lightweight building in which you can hide from the scorching sun, rain, and enjoy the surrounding nature in a cozy atmosphere. When choosing material for such a design, owners increasingly began to give preference to polycarbonate. And for good reason, because, in addition to the affordable price, it has a lot of advantages.

After reading this article, the user will learn how to effectively apply it in practice and independently create a beautiful gazebo from it.

Thematic material:

Types of polycarbonate

When developing a project for a future structure, it is important to understand that this building material is produced in two types, which have significant differences both in appearance and in technical characteristics. Among them:

Monolithic. It is a continuous sheet 2–20 mm thick. Using hot forming, such polycarbonate can easily take on any shape. Resistant to environmental influences. The colors do not lose their brightness. And its increased strength allows it to be used for floors without installation. In terms of reliability and shockproof properties, it is many times better than the second option.
Cellular. It has the appearance of a multilayer panel, the balls of which are connected to each other by vertical stiffeners. The air in the voids creates thermal insulation, so material with a thickness of 10 mm and above is in no way inferior to double-glazed windows.

Pros and cons of polycarbonate structures

When assessing the benefits of purchasing polycarbonate for summer construction, there are several compelling arguments in its favor. Among them:

high level of strength;
is inexpensive;
average service life – 20 years;
bends perfectly in any direction;
easy to install;
non-flammable (starts to melt at +1200C);
resistant to temperature changes and high humidity;
Regardless of color, it transmits light well into the room.

However, if the polycarbonate was stored in a place with high humidity, condensation could form in the middle of the sheets. To remove it, you will need to treat the sheets with compressed air.

Photo: the gazebo is glazed with monolithic polycarbonate and covered with a soft roof

As for the finished structure made from this material, there are many advantages in using it:

Possibility of combination with metal, wood, stone, brick. Polycarbonate will look harmonious with any other type of material.
Construction time is reduced. A small gazebo can be assembled in 1–2 days.
Installation and assembly of the structure does not require special skills. Therefore, this design is easy to handle on your own.
For light-weight buildings there is no need to pour a foundation.
Making walls from this material opens up a wonderful view of the surrounding area and garden.
Mobility. Such a gazebo in the form of a canopy with a table can easily be moved to any other part of the summer cottage.
Speed of dismantling and ease of storage. It takes a little time to dismantle the structure.
This design will be cheap.
Polycarbonate roof and walls have good sound and heat insulation.
All elements of the building do not require additional maintenance.

This material does not have any significant drawbacks that could affect the strength and service life of structures.

But when cutting polycarbonate sheets, you need to tightly close the edges at the ends. To do this, it is better to purchase a sealant, perforated tape or end profile.

Choosing the shape of the gazebo

According to the owners’ idea, the building can take the form of absolutely any geometric figure and more. The most popular designs are:

square;
round;
rectangular;
modular;
six, octagonal.

In addition, there are gazebos in the form of a semicircle, triangle or barrel.

Photo: various designs made of rolled metal and polycarbonate

The following can be used as a roof:

single slope;
gable;
tent.

A combined version of a metal frame and a polycarbonate sloping roof in a pergola design will look beautiful. Or an attached carport with a polycarbonate roof.

You can attach a porch with wrought iron railings to a closed structure or make handrails.

It is worth noting that regardless of the choice of form, this point must be reflected in the building drawing.

Drawing: the material used is 6 mm cellular polycarbonate and a profile 40 x 40 x 2

The need for a foundation

If, according to the diagram, the future gazebo will have a massive appearance, and a combination of polycarbonate with wood or brick will be used as the main materials, then laying the foundation is a mandatory stage in assembling the structure. Columnar or . For a closed type of gazebo with a fireplace, barbecue or barbecue inside, you can pour a monolith. In addition, a separate foundation is created for the heating product.

But for lightweight buildings, you can get by with installing supporting pipes. They will become a simple but strong foundation of the structure.

Materials for assembling the frame

The step-by-step creation of a gazebo involves the manufacture of a reliable frame. You can take:

When making fasteners or cutting polycarbonate, you should know:

The sheet material is cut with a saw with fine teeth to avoid crumbling.
It is better to carry out all installation work on days with no or minimal gusts of wind, since the high windage of polycarbonate can lead to a traumatic situation.
Transparent sheets heat up much less and expand. Therefore, if the walls will be glazed with polycarbonate, then it is better to give preference to the colorless option.
It is necessary to drill holes on the sheet between the ribs, leaving at least 3 cm from the edge.
The best option for fastening the honeycomb type is thermal washers with protective covers.
The joints between parts of the roof or fence are treated with silicone.

Sealant should be applied to each end polycarbonate element, leaving only the bottom of the sheets exposed. This manipulation will avoid the accumulation of condensation inside the material.

Photo: docking strip for connecting polycarbonate

Users often search:

Step-by-step instructions for building a gazebo

If you are planning to build a gazebo yourself, you can use a different combination of materials. Below are the manufacturing steps and photographs of the two most popular designs.

Combined option: polycarbonate + wood

For such a construction, it will be necessary to erect a columnar base, and only then begin assembling the frame.

The work order is as follows:

The area is being leveled. Marking in progress.
According to the project, holes up to a meter deep (it all depends on the type of soil) and up to 50 cm wide are dug along the perimeter of the structure.
A 10 cm layer of sand and crushed stone is poured into the bottom of the pits.
Wooden posts, pre-treated with antiseptics, are installed in these openings. For better waterproofing of the building, the part of the support that will be concreted is wrapped in roofing felt.
The pillars are filled with mortar. Their evenness is checked by a level.
The foundation will dry out within a week. During this time, it must be moistened with water so that it does not crack.
The next step is installation of the logs. To do this, it is better to take a 5*15 cm beam. The logs are installed horizontally every 40–50 cm.
The flooring is made of wooden boards, previously treated with protective agents. Fastening - self-tapping screws.
Creating a pitched roof. The top trim is made with timber.
At the edges of the supports, grooves are cut into which the timber must fit to connect all the posts. Fastening - nails or self-tapping screws.
Load-bearing rafters are installed.
The sheathing is being done.
The top of the gazebo must be covered with polycarbonate.

For an open structure, instead of walls, you can make a small fence or fence, decorating it with forging elements, and install a table with benches inside.

Frame made of profile pipe + polycarbonate cladding

According to reviews from builders, such a covered structure will be durable and will last for many years. To install the frame, metal pipes and corners should be used.

Photo: profile pipe frame is ready

All main work is carried out in the following sequence:

The area is marked. Spaces are allocated for supports.
It is necessary to dig holes up to 10 cm in diameter and up to a meter deep. Their number is indicated in the project.
20 cm of sand and crushed stone are placed at the bottom and compacted.
The pipes are leveled and spacers made of timber are made under them. They are concreted.
When the solution has completely hardened, you can proceed to the bottom trim.
Metal corners are welded to the fixed pipes and wooden logs with bolts are mounted on top of them.
The elements of the upper trim are welded.
It is better to create the roof frame on the ground and weld it ready-made to the main structure.
The metal parts of the building are treated with anti-corrosion agents.
The floor is laid with edged boards or filled with screed and laid tiles.
Polycarbonate sheets are pre-cut to the required sizes. They are attached to the roof using self-tapping screws with thermal washers. Sealant is applied to the joints.

In such a gazebo you can install a grill or barbecue. For fire safety purposes, a concrete floor with a thickness of at least 40 cm is poured. And the area around it is finished with fire-resistant materials.

Construction of a gazebo with a stove

It is possible to install a stove or other devices for cooking and heating in a polycarbonate gazebo. However, this combination requires compliance with several important recommendations. Among them:

When choosing a site for a structure, you need to take into account the wind rose and whether trees and shrubs will be adjacent to the structure. According to the rules, the distance of the building from the neighboring plot and trees must be at least 5 m.
A separate foundation must be laid under the stove, and the area near the firebox must be lined with fireproof materials.
For finishing you can use natural stone, facing bricks, tiles.
The installation of the furnace is carried out before installing the polycarbonate.

Construction prices in companies

If opportunities allow, then it is worth purchasing a ready-made version of the structure of various designs and sizes, or buying individual elements and assembling it yourself. You can also order production according to an individual project.

Photo: metal profiles and polycarbonate in skillful hands turn into an excellent place to relax

You can get acquainted with the assortment, prices and make a purchase through online stores or by contacting the office of the construction organization.

The cost of 1 m2 of monolithic polycarbonate is from 750 rubles, cellular - from 160 rubles.

How much the finished structure will cost depends on the consumption of materials, shape, finishing elements, delivery distance and manufacturer. The price for a summerhouse 1.7 m wide, 3 m long, 2.2 m high starts from 16,000 rubles or 6,500 UAH. But it will cost 25 thousand rubles (10 thousand UAH) and more.

Owners who want to bring to life the idea of creating an unusual building on their site can use the help of specialists or rely on their own strength. The main thing is that the end result is pleasing to the eye and brings pleasure.

Video: ideas for construction - example of construction

As for the latter, there are many building materials and technologies for making gazebos. In the article we will tell you how to make a polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands, consider options using metal and profiles, and demonstrate drawings, photos and video instructions for building a simple gazebo for your summer cottage.

A polycarbonate structure has a number of advantages, including:

Relatively light weight of the structure. Given the light weight of polycarbonate, it is not always necessary to pour a foundation under such a gazebo. Such a structure can be easily dismantled or moved to another convenient location.
Easy to manufacture. You can buy such a gazebo ready-made, but it is quite possible to make it yourself.
Availability of materials used. The design of the gazebo does not contain rare building materials that are difficult to obtain in our country. In terms of cost, it can be cheaper than a gazebo made of brick, wood, and especially forging.
Possibility to combine. A material such as polycarbonate is perfectly combined with a large number of materials.

So, polycarbonate itself has a lot of positive aspects. Thanks to this, such material can become almost indispensable in the manufacture of gazebos. The following are the positive aspects of polycarbonate:

flexibility both across and along;
easy to drill;
easy to cut;
not flammable;
has sufficient strength;
service life 20 years;
Possibility of use in humid climates;
not afraid of temperature changes;
has good light transmittance;
UV resistant.

As you can see, the design of the structure itself and the material used has a lot of positive aspects. All this can overcome doubts and fears when choosing the best option.

Having decided to use polycarbonate to build a gazebo, you should think about many other issues. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the nuances that should be taken into account when creating drawings and a project, respectively.

By type of gazebo there are:

Open. This design will make you feel in harmony with nature. To make it, you can install a metal frame.
Closed. This structure will provide reliable protection from bad weather.

By methodinstallations:

Portable. Very convenient if you like to change something from time to time in your summer cottage. The simple and lightweight design allows you to move it to another convenient place.
Stationary. In this case, the gazebo is built, implying the construction of a reliable foundation.

According to the complexity of the design:

Regular canopy. To implement such a design does not require a lot of materials and effort. A canopy is constructed on several support pillars.
Complex structure. In this case, the gazebo can have an intricate shape, which will be an excellent addition to the landscape design.

According to equipment:

A simple gazebo. Designed for family gatherings.
With barbecue. Allows you to have pleasant communication while eating delicious food cooked on the fire. At the same time, you should not isolate yourself from guests, but spend all your time together.

By functionality:

Carrying a functional load. Such a gazebo will protect others from the sun, rain, and also serve as a wonderful place for relaxation.
Decorative element. The gazebo can be made from different materials, as well as polycarbonate in different colors.

By shape:

Round.
Square.
Rectangular.
Octagonal.
Modular.

Now it’s worth deciding on some details regarding the arrangement of a gazebo on a summer cottage. And the chosen location will play an important role. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the following details:

Rose of Wind;
nearby trees and shrubs and the level of shadow from them;
presence of uneven ground;
whether there is a slope or mostly flat.

Regardless of the chosen location, it is important to carry out all the preparatory work to clean and prepare it. To do this, also think about this:

what will be the total weight of the structure;
what level of difficulty;
dimensions of the building.

It is important to think through all these subtleties in advance, because this will be influenced by the choice of a specific material for making the frame.

Various materials can be used to make the frame. For example it could be:

Tree. This material is affordable, environmentally friendly, has aesthetic properties, but is quite demanding in care.
Metal corner or profile. Here, of course, the advantage is durability and long-term operation. But installation will require welding skills. Plus the cost is quite high.

In this article, we will look at the sequence of manufacturing gazebos, using different building materials for arranging the frame.

To attach the polycarbonate, make holes in the metal corner in advance. Then, using special self-tapping screws with thermal washers, fasten the sheets. At the same time, make sure that the screws do not press too hard on the polycarbonate. As for joining the material, it is better to use special plastic profiles for this. To achieve tightness, treat the joints with silicone or another similar sealant.

This option for making a gazebo is similar to the process of installing a metal structure. Only in this case the base of the frame is made entirely of profile and polycarbonate. Therefore, to build a gazebo, you should buy a profile pipe of square or rectangular cross-section. For a gazebo, it is best to use a square profile. To arrange a gazebo, you can use either an aluminum or metal profile. The profile is more resistant to stress and stronger.

To perform the work you will need the following tool:

hacksaw for metal;
Bulgarian;
welding machine;
electric drill.

Aluminum profile is a relatively lightweight material. Polycarbonate is also lightweight. From here it becomes clear that it is not worth building a super-strong foundation. You can make a shallow strip foundation.

To make it, dig a trench up to 300 mm deep around the perimeter of the future gazebo.
The bottom of the trench should be filled with crushed stone.
You also need to make a reinforced belt from rods.
Having built the formwork, pour concrete.

It is very important to embed metal parts in concrete. An aluminum profile will then be attached to them to make the frame.

If you plan to build a large gazebo, then, of course, make the foundation more powerful by digging to a depth of 700 mm.

An important part of the profile gazebo is the base. Therefore, everything must be done exactly according to the drawings. So, the parts are cut into the required lengths. It is also necessary to prepare the supports on which the roof will be attached. Alternatively, they can be concreted or attached to embedded parts. The last option is not very reliable.

The entire frame can be assembled using a bolted connection. But such a design will be less durable. It's another matter if you use a metal profile. Then all connections can simply be welded together. To build a roof, as in all other cases, you can lay polycarbonate. The main thing is to install it correctly.

For the sake of objectivity, a gazebo made of aluminum profile is not as reliable as one made of metal. Plus, the material itself is quite expensive in cost.

So, we learned about how to make a gazebo from polycarbonate using different materials for its base. Below we invite you to familiarize yourself with the drawings of the gazebo.

Video

The video provided shows how to make a gazebo from polycarbonate:

Photo

Below you can see a number of photographs showing a polycarbonate gazebo in different designs:

Blueprints

If you decide to make a polycarbonate gazebo on your own, then diagrams and drawings will help you with this:

Gazebos are one of the most popular elements of landscape design, allowing you to transform the appearance of any site. A variety of products made of wood, metal, polycarbonate and other materials allows owners of country houses to choose a gazebo that will help create an atmosphere of coziness and comfort. Do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebos are the best option for creating a strong, durable and at the same time visually weightless structure that will decorate your yard for many years.

It should be borne in mind that you will not go wrong if you use polycarbonate in construction. This material, which is widely used in construction, has a number of properties that make it stand out against the background of other transparent building materials.

Due to the special structure of the material, polycarbonate slabs do not break upon impact and do not chip or crack.

The main advantages of cellular polycarbonate include:

High impact resistance (8 times stronger than acrylic plastic and 200 times stronger than glass).
Extremely light (6 times lighter than acrylic and 16 times lighter than glass). The installation of lightweight polycarbonate panels does not require solid supporting structures.
Ability to withstand temperature changes from -40 to +120 degrees, as well as snow and wind loads. This feature makes cellular polycarbonate an ideal roofing material for gazebos, greenhouses and other light-transmitting structures.
High heat and sound insulation properties and light transmittance with transparency up to 86%. The outer side of the panel is covered with a special layer that protects against ultraviolet radiation.

This material is also easy to process - bending, drilling, cutting.

In addition, the cost of polycarbonate panels is an order of magnitude lower compared to the same metal, and a wide range of colors allows you to choose the best option, the use of which will allow the structure to fit perfectly into the design of the site

Stages of construction

Installing a polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands, like any building structure, is carried out according to a certain algorithm.

Step #1 – choosing and preparing a place for a gazebo

Gazebos are placed close to the house, as well as in the recreation area. It’s great if this place is located in the shade of trees and away from drafts.

The choice of location for the gazebo primarily depends on the functions that the structure will perform. When planning to create a permanent gazebo of a large area, you should prepare the foundation for the construction of the structure. A flat area with a sufficiently low groundwater level is suitable for this purpose. If the site is located in a low area, the structure should be protected from flooding, and to do this, build a solid foundation for it. Gazebos can be installed either directly on the ground or on a specially constructed platform - a foundation. When deciding to create a gazebo for relaxing and gathering cheerful companies around the table, it will be enough to install only supporting pipes as a foundation.

If there is a pond on the site, then it is very reasonable to place a gazebo not far from it in order to provide an additional flow of fresh air during the midday heat

The most common shapes of gazebos are: square and rectangular, triangular, round and oval. The design of a traditional square gazebo can be decorated with either a single- or gable-type roof or a hip-type roof.

Step #2 – preparing the foundation base

If you don’t need to lay a special foundation for small and light gazebos, then a foundation is required for the construction of permanent structures. To do this, you should mark the territory and designate places for future posts for the frame. Pouring the area under the gazebo can be done in parallel with installing the posts. To install the posts, you need to dig holes large enough to accommodate two bricks inside. In this case, there should still be room for filling a 10 cm layer of soil.

The posts are installed inside the hole, filled with screenings and filled with cement. Cement hardens within a few days

The posts are installed inside the hole, filled with screenings and filled with cement. The cement hardens within a few days. To prevent moisture from getting on the hardening cement in the hole, you can cover the base of the posts with film.

Step #3 - frame assembly process

The manufacturing material can be either wooden posts or metal profiles. Wood is an inexpensive and easy-to-work material that requires constant care to extend its service life. Metal is a durable and temperature-resistant material whose service life is an order of magnitude longer than wood.

The principle of assembling the frame is reminiscent of working with a constructor and is quite simple to implement

Elements of a wooden structure are fastened with nails and self-tapping screws, and metal ones with screws and nuts. When working with metal, it is advisable to combine connection types, also using welded connections of parts.

Step #4 – glazing the gazebo with polycarbonate

Polycarbonate can be used not only as a material for arranging a roof, but also for fragments of wall coverings. Polycarbonate windows for the gazebo will bring additional sunlight into a cozy relaxation area and add lightness to the structure. Shaped holes in the side coverings, cut with a hacksaw, will create a visual effect of weightlessness and openwork.

If you make a roof from polycarbonate, you can attach it using ordinary self-tapping screws. There are also special thermal washers

So, first, the outlines of all the light-transmitting parts of the gazebo are transferred to the prepared polycarbonate sheets. After this, using an electric jigsaw, a hacksaw or a sharply sharpened knife, the parts are cut out along the contour. The relative ease of cutting sheets is one of the valuable properties of polycarbonate. To connect to a metal structure, holes must be drilled in polycarbonate parts.

Rubber washers with screws and silicone sealants will help avoid unwanted leaks in the structure and destruction of the base of the sheets. To isolate corner joints and join several parts, it is advisable to use special elements that can be purchased along with polycarbonate sheets.

Design and maintenance of the gazebo

A comfortable and beautifully decorated gazebo will become your favorite corner in the garden, where you can enjoy the singing of birds and unity with nature. In addition, to communicate with guests there will now be no need to go into the house, but instead spend time having a pleasant conversation in the fresh air.

Climbing plants planted along the walls of the gazebo and entwining the structure will give this corner special attractiveness and comfort.

A polycarbonate gazebo can serve as a functional element of landscape design for at least ten years. The design does not require special care.

The windows and roof of the gazebo, made of transparent material resistant to temperature changes, need only be periodically washed with water from a hose or wiped off dirt with a damp cloth. Dirt is easily removed with ordinary soapy water. For cleaning, it is not advisable to use detergents that contain chlorine, alkali, salts and harmful abrasive substances, which can damage the outer layer with ultraviolet protection.

Sheets of brightly colored tones, used instead of traditional transparent sheets, allow you to give the structure an original look

If you are the happy owner of a private home, then you have probably thought about a separate recreation area. In this case, a gazebo is an excellent choice. Such structures can be made of polycarbonate, which is distinguished not only by its aesthetic appeal, but also by its durability. But first things first.

Technical indicators of polycarbonate

Gazebos made of this material look very light, one might even say weightless, but in reality it is a fairly reliable and strong structure. The lion's share of the strength of such structures comes from the characteristics of polycarbonate - perhaps the most durable of transparent building surfaces. From the huge list of positive factors, the following should be highlighted:

Low weight - by using this coating for the roof of your gazebo, you will forget about laying a powerful and bulky foundation, as well as installing solid supports and load-bearing structures;

Impact resistance – polycarbonate is hundreds of times stronger than glass, and is several times stronger than plastic in this indicator. If installed correctly, it is not afraid of even fairly large hail;

Ease of installation - a truly technologically advanced material; it is easy to cut, attach, drill and bend. This will save you a lot of time and effort;

UV protection - to increase this indicator to the maximum, it is enough to purchase a special coating or polycarbonate with already applied protection. You will protect yourself from scorching rays, while transparency will remain at a decent level;

Resistance to weather changes - polycarbonate is not afraid of snow and rain, does not rot or mold, and tolerates even very strong temperature changes (within 160 C);

Safety - the material does not burn, and if you manage to break it, then its fragments will not be as dangerous as in the case of glass.

Advantages of polycarbonate gazebos

Agree that polycarbonate is not the first material that comes to mind when thinking about gazebos, even despite its excellent technical qualities. However, it is worth considering for this type of structure:

— Indicators such as flexibility and plasticity can change your understanding of the configuration of a recreational building, its appearance and ability to fit into modern design;

— Thanks to the light weight of the building material, you can build a structure that can be moved from one location to another, so you get a truly mobile canopy. At the end of the summer season, simply move the gazebo to a shelter;

— Polycarbonate buildings look light and transparent, which is especially important for small areas - they do not clutter up the space and do not become an obstacle to viewing the territory;

— The honeycomb design guarantees the soundproofing properties of the material - strong wind or rain will not force you to raise your voice when talking with loved ones;

— Polycarbonate retains heat better than glass, and you will feel comfortable even in winter, of course, provided the room is heated;

- Among other things, this gazebo is very easy to care for - by adding a metal frame to the structure, you will be sure that repairs will not be needed very soon.

Cellular and monolithic polycarbonate

Today on the construction market you can find two types of materials - monolithic and cellular. The first type allows you to get a very attractive transparent structure. Externally, this polycarbonate is similar to glass, but it is not so heavy and fragile. You can choose a ribbed or smooth texture of the material, depending on your own preferences.

Such gazebos are beautiful, but quite expensive, so they are rarely installed. Please also note that if you want to make a roof from such a material, be sure to buy options with a thickness of at least 0.5 cm.

Cellular modifications have a good ratio of cost and quality characteristics. They are not as beautiful as monolithic surfaces, but more practical, cheaper and lighter.

For the gazebo, choose three- or two-layer materials - depending on the quality characteristics, they can last from 20 to 50 years. The suitable thickness of honeycomb coatings is 0.8 cm or more.

To make the right choice of gazebo, let's look at what options we have in the case of polycarbonate buildings. So, gazebos may differ based on:

Their shapes - install the structure in the form of a polygon, rectangle, circle or oval;

Functional purpose - structures can serve as a place for outdoor recreation or act as a decorative element of the garden; moreover, the building can be additionally equipped with a barbecue;

Portability - as stated earlier, the gazebo can be mobile or stationary;

Type of structure – choose from closed or enclosed, complex structures or simple canopies.

Subtleties of installing a gazebo

If, according to your idea, the gazebo will be massive and large, and the base will be a combination of heavy wood, brick and polycarbonate sheets, then building a foundation is a necessary step. For semi-closed gazebos, a strip foundation or a columnar version is quite suitable. For larger, more massive structures, it is better to pour a monolithic base. In addition, if you decide to install a fireplace, tandoor or barbecue, then you need to lay out a heat-resistant platform for them separately.

For light buildings, it is quite enough to install supporting pipes that will bear the weight of the entire structure. This is a very reliable and uncomplicated base for a polycarbonate gazebo.

Without a reliable and strong frame it is difficult to get a high-quality gazebo. The following materials are suitable for production:

Corners or metal profiles. To assemble the base of the gazebo from this material, you will need skills in handling a welding machine. The undoubted advantage of such a building is its strength and undeniable durability; the disadvantages include the cost and complex construction of the structure.

Wood. A wooden base for a polycarbonate gazebo is quite easy to assemble with your own hands. This is a fairly inexpensive solution that will delight you with its appearance, environmental friendliness and harmony with the surrounding nature. But we must not forget that wood requires periodic processing and care.

When cutting and fixing polycarbonate sheets, focus on the following aspects:

1) Transparent varieties are the least susceptible to expansion and heating, and therefore, if you prefer this material for wall construction, choose a transparent product;
2) To prevent the sheet from starting to crumble, it is better to cut it with a tool with small teeth;
3) Make holes between the ribs, departing from the edge by at least 3 cm;
4) For safety reasons, perform installation in calm weather;
5) Attach cellular polycarbonate using thermal washers;
6) Treat the joints on the roof with silicone.

It is better to construct a polycarbonate gazebo using a combination of materials. We will give an example of constructing a structure with a metal frame. Metal will ensure the strength and durability of the structure. The supports will be mounted from angles and pipes.

The best location for a gazebo is a flat surface with deep underground water. If you place the building in a low area, take care of a solid foundation that will protect the structure from flooding.

So, first of all, mark the area, leaving space for the frame. Next, dig holes up to 1 m deep and no more than 10 cm in diameter. Their number must be indicated in the plan. Place and compact crushed stone or sand in the pits to a depth of 20 cm.

Install the pipes level and use timber to make spacers for them and concrete them. Once the concrete has hardened, begin lining the bottom.

Weld the metal corners to the pipes, and bolt the wooden logs on top of them. Weld the parts for the top trim.

Construct the roof frame on the ground, and then secure the finished structure at the top.

Treat all metal elements with a special anti-corrosion agent.

After completing the procedures, complete the flooring - it can be created from tiles after pouring screed or using boards.

Cut the polycarbonate sheets and secure them with self-tapping screws and thermal washers. Apply sealant to the joints.

Do you want an indoor recreation area with a barbecue or grill? Great idea! But before you run to the store for such a device, you should take care of fire safety.

First of all, please note that the place for the stove must be equipped with a concrete foundation poured at least 40 cm thick. Place the gazebo away from the neighbors’ area, other buildings, as well as from bushes and trees. The optimal distance is 5 m.

Use fire-resistant materials as finishing materials: tiles, bricks, stone. Install the selected type of stove before installing polycarbonate sheets.

Polycarbonate gazebos - photo

Gazebos made of polycarbonate attract with a variety of shapes. We have collected photo ideas that will demonstrate the diversity of designs and also help you choose the most optimal option for you. Enjoy watching!

Country house owners can choose many options and materials for buildings inside their garden. In this list, polycarbonate structures occupy the first positions. A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo will always fit organically into the interior and give it a fresh look.

The advantage of polycarbonate for creating a shelter from the sun

Polycarbonate is a versatile building material with unique properties that you will not find in other materials.

Among the advantages of the released plastic are:

High resistance to impacts and physical stress. A substance that is 8 times stronger than acrylic plastic and 200 times stronger than ordinary glass.
Light weight, unrivaled. You don't need solid support elements, since plastic is 15 times lighter than glass.
The product perfectly transmits sunlight, while serving as an excellent noise and heat insulator. High-quality manufacturers cover the surface of the panels with an additional layer against exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
The material can withstand temperatures from -40 to +120 degrees. Polycarbonate with high-quality installation will withstand hot weather with wind and heavy precipitation.

It is thanks to this set of qualities that polycarbonate has become an indispensable material on country and farm lands, in the form of canopies, greenhouses and similar constructions.

If you want to shape a metal product, at best you will have to exert physical effort and use tools; wood also needs to be processed. With polycarbonate, you can simply move your hand to give the panel the desired look.

A high degree of manufacturability allows you to cut panels even with ordinary scissors or a stationery knife, which is also a unique case.

Unlike the aforementioned glass, polycarbonate will not crumble into fragments when broken.

Thanks to simple methods of work, you need a minimum of knowledge to build a polycarbonate shelter. You can find many architectural solutions for a summer residence on the Internet or in this article.

Compared to gazebos made from other materials, building a gazebo made of polycarbonate requires a significantly smaller budget. Frame profiles can also be the cheapest. This is the most economical option when compared to the wooden, forged or stone version.

Preparing to build a polycarbonate gazebo

Choosing the right polycarbonate

To create a canopy or garden house, the following types of plastic are often used:

Monolithic polycarbonate, which is used for heavy structures on a farm or country house;
Profiled polycarbonate. In this version, the difference is in the shape of the material - it is wavy, which makes it excellent for creating roof coverings;
Cellular polycarbonate is the most common. This is an inexpensive and simple building material that allows you to create regular and nonlinear shapes and bends.

The decision on what material to choose so that the polycarbonate gazebo will last a long time is up to you. But we recommend avoiding dubious manufacturers and using only well-known brands. The required elongation limit must be at least 55 MPa, and impact strength (at least 25 kJ/m2), bending strength required - 90 MPa.

Choosing a frame and type of gazebos

For your gazebo sheathed with polycarbonate to be successful, you need to organize the correct installation of the main frame. This event is the main and most crucial moment in construction. Take the choice of materials for load-bearing supports seriously.
Common solutions for polycarbonate shelters are:

Metal pipes;
Concrete or building foam blocks;
Forged metal gratings.

The simplest option for you would be a design made of metal parts:

Hollow pipe;
Fittings of various diameters;
Construction corners;
Profile products.

According to the type of structure, there are two options for polycarbonate gazebos:

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo can be built either in a stationary version with any foundation, or portable. In this case, you can change the location of the gazebo as it suits you.

According to the level of complexity and equipment, polycarbonate gazebos can be divided into the following types:

Classification of plastic pavilions

Classic building

Polycarbonate gazebos are often made in the style of a simple polycarbonate canopy in a square or rectangular shape. This design is formed without difficult joints, which are possible with precise cutting and require good sealing of the joints. You can easily build a canopy on your own, without the help of others. You will receive a comfortable, summer structure within one or two days of work.

Barrel gazebo

As mentioned above, polycarbonate is a flexible material, which allows you to create the second most popular summer house structure made of polycarbonate: a barrel gazebo. By forming both the roof and the walls in “one stroke,” the builder will significantly save on material and also add a catchy design format. In addition, such a gazebo is very practical and can be portable. You just need to create a strong frame from rolled metal and cover it with a whole sheet of plastic, attaching it with self-tapping screws. You can find out how to do this correctly below.

Gazebo-sphere

In this case, you will have to work hard. Don't take on the job if you don't have the relevant knowledge and experience. However, a polycarbonate gazebo in this version will look very original and stylish. It is necessary to implement a well-functioning sliding system and correctly bend the metal profile.

Building a gazebo - polycarbonate gazebo with your own hands

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo is simple, economical and quick. For construction, you will need the following tools and materials: a standard list of grinders, drills, welding machines, chisels, shovels, hacksaws, etc. will do.

Choosing the material and base for the frame

You won't need to spend a lot of money and time. You need polycarbonate for mounting the roof, a board and batten, a wooden beam, a metal pipe, and a metal profile. You may also need building bricks for decoration and fastening.

Choosing a place for a gazebo

If you are planning a grandiose structure, pay attention to the soil of the future gazebo, which should be dry and have a flat surface. Check the groundwater level to see if it is within the acceptable range. Take into account the other characteristics of the area, exclude places with constant drafts and look for a place with shade, perhaps near trees. A properly designed gazebo will become a highlight of your garden.

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo is most practical in the case of a standard rectangular shape.

Creating the foundation of the structure

A large gazebo covered with polycarbonate with a barbecue will require the installation of a foundation. However, in the case of a standard gazebo, for several family members with a table and seats, you can limit yourself to supporting pipes, which will play the role of a base for your gazebo. To implement such a project, it is necessary to: create markings on site, dig or drill recesses for pipes and future filling.

Then the builder must install the load-bearing parts, center them in position and fill them with mortar, such as concrete.

Diagram: gazebo support pillars

You can also create a monolithic foundation over the entire area. After all operations, you need to wait a few days for drying.

We create the frame of the building

It all depends on the choice of your material, but the simplest and most effective option is to work with metal.

There are two ways to install the frame:

A gradual method, using corners and a metal profile.
Installation of a ready-made frame on a load-bearing support.

If you can carry out the first option on your own, then the second case will require teamwork, and, with a large mass, you will even have to use special transport.

In addition, the elements can be connected using either bolts or welding.

The roof and, if necessary, walls are also made of polycarbonate. It is necessary to secure the sheets of sloping material for effective drainage of sediments, and also hermetically so that water does not fall on the table and vacationers.

Important: polycarbonate is much like glass; this material can easily cut your hands or face at the junction. Therefore, the edges of the polycarbonate sheet, which can constantly come into contact with the human body, must be isolated with special plugs along the entire joint to prevent injuries.

You choose the cutting sizes yourself based on the situation. A very important step is securing the sheets with self-tapping screws. You should not damage the plastic and, in addition, follow the other rules, the main thing is not to overdo it with the screw, and complete the screwing when the fastener head comes into contact with the plastic.

You can choose the seats, backrests, and flooring to suit your taste. In the best case, all elements should be secured inside.

Design solutions for polycarbonate gazebos

A do-it-yourself polycarbonate gazebo can be made in various design solutions; we offer several options for inspiration: