When it comes to deciding which Gazebo to go with, there can understandably be some hesitation as to which one may be right for you. However, adding a Gazebo to your yard is a great way to enhance the overall value, and beauty of your home.
It has the innate ability to make everything around it look better, as well as provide optimal protection for enjoying a hard days works. They are fantastic at keeping out the sun, as well as those pesky mosquitos we all have run-ins with every summer. With that being said, one of the most important aspects that often gets overlooked is the durability of the Gazebo when it comes to areas with high winds.
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What’s the Best Type of Material for a Gazebo Against High Winds?
Generally speaking, having a solid wood or solid metal frame is the best option because of its weight, and soft top Gazebos should typically be avoided. When it comes to breaking down, which Gazebos will be best suited for windy areas? We have come up with the top 9 and explained them further below.
9 Best Gazebos for High Winds
1. Pre-Stained Premium Cedar Wood & Aluminum Outdoor Pavilion Gazebo 
This gorgeous Yardistry Pavilion Gazebo option is our top ranked gazebo in terms of it’s durability aspects when associated to high winds. It is an all-wood gazebo, made with a stunning bronze aluminum roofing. A classic, sleek design, made with 100% Cedar Lumber, finished off with a beautiful mocha brown stain to tie it all together. It is roughly 740 pounds in weight, and the overall structure is around 14 x 12. Overall, the strong, durable structural design, on top of the remarkable design, make this our best choice amongst gazebos built to last.
2. Sojag Mykonos Double Roof Hardtop Gazebo
The strong and durable Sojag Gazebo available on Amazon carries the second greatest value when it comes to handling strong winds. It is built to be an all-season gazebo, meaning that it is an extremely durable structure, that is made of dark grey powder coated aluminum. Which is specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions year-round. On top on that the steel roof, and PVC-coated polyester mosquito netting, this unique design is coated with durability features. Not to mention the fact that it is flame-resistant! With a size of 12 x 16, it provides more than enough space to enjoy some time outdoors with friends and family. If properly secured to the ground, this gazebo provides as one of the most durable designs, built to last through extreme elements.
3. Halley Outdoor Black Rust Proof Aluminum Framed Hardtop Gazebo (Best Bang for your Buck)
The Halley Gazebo is listed as our third best option, as it provides a premium solution for extreme winds, and weather conditions. It is one of the more favorable options here as it not only provides sure durability against wind, but it is also one of the more remarkable designs available. It is however on the smaller size compared to other options, as it only covers a surface area of 10 x 10. And so, it is ideal for someone who is looking to utilize a small space.
4. Sunjoy Chapman Cedar Framed Gazebo with Steel 2-Tier Hip Roof Hardtop
Sunjoy provides us with our fourth choice on this list, presenting a durable, natural design. The Sunjoy Chapman is made with premium cedarwood and a sturdy rust-resistant powder-coated brown steel roof. This design also provides unique ceiling hooks for suspended lighting, as well as dual rails for hanging privacy curtains, and/or mosquito netting. One of the unique things about this option is that it comes with 2 different sizes, the 10 x 12, or the 12 x 14. So, depending on your situation, you can choose whichever one suits you best, making this one of the more diverse options available.
5. Codie Outdoor Modern Aluminum Hardtop Gazebo
Another popular choice is the Codie gazebo, posing as a versatile option for anyone looking to invest in a good-quality gazebo. It’s a little pricier than some other options, however, when secured properly it provides for a very stylish, yet durable design. Not to mention the fact that this is one of the few gazebos on this list that come with a variety of colour options. One potential downfall however is that it is another small design, being that it is only 10 x 10. This may not be an issue for you depending on where you live, or how much space you have, but still something to be mindful of.
6. DikaSun Dual Roof Gazebo with Mosquito Nettings and Curtains
DikaSun makes it on our gazebo list built for strong winds. Though it is again one of the smaller designs (11 x 11), it is a soft-top style tent that provides optimal safety from the suns UV rays. It also has a unique dual roof design to allow wind, and smoke to pass through. Also, it comes with extremely durable, water-resistant curtains, and full-sided netting. The frame itself is made with heavy-duty steel, built to last through rust, corrosion, and a variety of extreme weather conditions.
If you have committed to the soft-top design then there likely is no better choice in terms of durability.
7. Bali Outdoor Rust Proof Aluminum Framed Hardtop Gazebo with Curtains
Another tremendous option is the Bali gazebo, a hard-top design made with a variety of curtain options. One of the more stylish gazebos on the market, this choice is perfect if you are looking for something compact, but also sleek. It’s another small design (10 x 10), and likely the least durable of the bunch, but more than makes up for it with the unique exterior.
8. Sojag Dakota Sun Shelter
Sojag slides in as another top choice for gazebo owners, it’s Dakota Gazebo is made with high-quality aluminum, and galvanized steel roofing. The unique two-track system allows for both the nylon mosquito net, as well as the privacy curtains, to slide with ease. A strong design, built for people looking for an ideal shelter, and with customizable features. It is a slightly pricier option than some other choices on this list, and so even though it is a sturdy design, it is not the best option available.
9. Sunjoy Bridgeport Cedar Framed Gazebo with Steel Hardtop
The Sunjoy Bridgeport caps off our list of top 9 best gazebos for handling heavy winds, as a safe and affordable option for any home-owner. This simplistic, hardtop design is very customizable as it comes in two sizes, and also offers a premium dual railing system for both the privacy curtains, as well as the mosquito netting. It is made with premium cedarwood to create a natural-looking finish, and built with a sturdy rust-resistant powder-coated matte-black steel rooftop. Relatively boring in terms of design, and more expensive than other options, this is an amazing choice still if you are in need of something built to last.
How to Secure A Gazebo from Wind?
One of the main concerns people have is figuring out how to properly secure your gazebo so that the wind doesn’t whisk it away. Being that it is a temporary structure it is also more prone to damage caused by weather, particularly windy weather conditions. Therefore, it is paramount that you keep your gazebo secure from wind, as to avoid any potential damage caused to you, or the gazebo.
One of the more common ways to secure a gazebo is by using leg weights, rope and pegs, anchoring kits, polypropylene straps, and threaded rods. Although an important point to mention is that it will depend entirely on the surface your gazebo is on, as depending on whether it’s on grass, wood, or concrete, this could change how to secure it properly.
Drill into Concrete or Wood Decking
When it comes to the actual assembly of the gazebo, one of the most important aspects is how you are going to secure it to the ground. The majority of people will be looking to either have it placed on wood or concrete. When installing on concrete, there are 2 primary ways to do this: by drilling into the concrete or installing on top of the concrete. When you are drilling the gazebo into concrete it will require a hammer drill, a hammer, and concrete wedge anchors, however, it is the most recommended way to ensure stability. Drilling your gazebo into a wood deck is doable with a lot of the same technology, however, it is not as secure as if you were to drill it to concrete.
The older the wood deck the less secure your gazebo will be. Wood can rot over time, be aware of the wood you are drilling and bolting into is in good shape. If not you could potentially have the wind pull your gazebo and the wood up and away.
Strap It Down
An important part of the process when securing your gazebo is making sure that it is strapped down properly. Polypropylene straps (or ratchet tie-down straps) are a tremendous solution to preventing your gazebo from flying away in the high winds.
Straps have an extremely high breaking point, meaning that the weather has to get very extreme before the gazebo is able to blow away. Because of the racket function, you can make sure the straps get extra tight so that you don’t see any slack which could then cause the gazebo to shake if the wind is present.
However, in order for straps to be effective, there will need to be a heavy fixed structure or steel rings embedded into a concrete surface for the metal hooks to hook onto. Straps are typically used when you are installing your gazebo on grass, wood, or concrete surfaces.
Connect Weighted Bags to Legs
A tremendous way to help with securing your gazebo to the ground is by using weights to keep it from flying away. This method offers you the opportunity to secure your gazebo from windy conditions by using a variety of different heavy leg weights.
It can be hard to know exactly what your options are in terms of weighted bags that can be secured to the legs of your gazebo. However, you do have a multitude of options including sandbag leg weights, water leg weights, and steel stacking leg weights. Sandbag leg weights are an amazing budget option, typically used in normal weather conditions, on hard, solid ground. Water legs on the other hand are another tremendous budget option, carrying the benefit of being extremely lightweight, ideal for transportation.
However, potentially the most secure, and reliable option of the above mentioned would be the steel stacking leg weights. They are a super heavy-duty option, and can undoubtedly anchor down your gazebo successfully, no matter the weather conditions.
To give you an idea of what we would recommend, we have included a fantastic option (in the above photo) that is a good-quality set of weights for your gazebo. These Industrial Grade Weights can simply tie around your gazebos legs and keep them from tipping or blowing over. They are low costing while saving you from expensive damages. A gazebo can fly into your home and do more than just damage to itself, do whatever you can to prevent it from causing such damages. Using leg weights is a simple option on any ground surface.
Gazebos in the Wind FAQs
How Much Wind Can a Gazebo Withstand?
Depending on the type of gazebo that you install, the amount of wind that it can withstand is going to vary. For any gazebo owner, wind can easily become enemy #1 and is one of the most complained about factors amongst new buyers. Depending on the size, and the quality of the gazebo, most heavy-duty gazebos can withstand up to 30 to 35 miles per hour (50-55 km per hour) of wind when properly secured.
Hard Top Gazebo vs. Soft Top Gazebo
So, you know you want a gazebo, but you are trying to understand the difference between the two options “hardtop” and “soft-top”? Well, worry not because we have you covered! Hardtop gazebos are generally made with aluminum, metal, or baked enamel in order to help protect it from the extreme weather conditions. When it rains, the moisture doesn’t affect the structure, and when it snows, once again, moisture is not a problem. Soft tops on the other hand are a little different, instead, the rain will dull, and fade the top of the gazebo, and snow could potentially take down the entire structure. When it comes to which of the two is better, the hardtop takes the cake for a variety of reasons.
Hardtop gazebos have a much sleeker design, as soft tops are somewhat flimsy, essentially just a lazy man’s tent. Hardtops typically come with a nice, polished finish, creating a much cleaner look. However, soft tops are significantly cheaper than hardtops, so take this into consideration when making your purchase.
If you don’t get a lot of extreme weather conditions, and/or are looking to spend less, then go with the soft top. But when it comes to which of the two is more durable, and better at withstanding strong winds, there is no question that hardtops are the far better choice.
Do Gazebo Vents Help with Wind?
Absolutely, the air vents on gazebos are specifically built to help fight against extreme winds and stormy weather. If you are getting a gazebo that doesn’t have sidewalls, or isn’t a hardtop, consider getting one with air vents because they can significantly improve air circulation. They will help the flow of air, and the air won’t get stuck underneath the top of the gazebo, and push it up potentially causing the gazebo to top over, or worse, fly away.
Final Thoughts
All in all, there are a plethora of factors to consider when deciding which gazebo is going to work best for you. Wind no doubt can be a headache to deal with, and it’s often the last thing you think about when purchasing a gazebo. However, it is essential that you understand not only which gazebos are best for handling wind, but what additional equipment you might need to ensure maximum security.
The good news is that there are a ton of safe, and affordable solutions for you, as well as a multitude of platforms, to reach out for advice. Throughout this article, we have gone through some proposals of additional ways to properly secure your gazebo, and as long as you follow the suggestions that we’ve laid out for you, you should be just fine moving forward.
Jamie
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.
