Choose the Best Sun Shelter (Gazebo, Pergola, Canopy)

Before you decide on the shelter you want, check that the structure is robust so that you will be able to enjoy it for many years to come. Generally speaking, the larger the posts supporting the structure, the more solid it will be. Posts installed to form a triangle enhance stability, whereas square posts are much more robust. Certain structures are equipped with hooks to hang a lantern or electric lighting.

• Aluminum possesses great durability. It is very weather and corrosion-resistant, which has made it the number one choice among consumers.
• Steel is very resistant, but its susceptibility to rust makes it less popular.

Since it is vulnerable to all weather conditions, the roof is the component most likely to suffer damage. Wind, rain and sun all conspire against the roof; it has to be solid, flame-resistant, waterproof and colourfast.

• Fabric is the more common and least expensive option. Before you buy canopy fabric, make sure it is waterproof and has good UV resistance. UV-resistant fabrics generally have a longer life. You should also make sure you can purchase a replacement canopy.
• Polycarbonate is an excellent choice but more expensive. Polycarbonate is an ultra-resistant plastic that lets natural light through and filters UV rays at the same time. It is 100% waterproof and colourfast.

This is an opening made in the roof to let the wind through. If the shelter is located in an area vulnerable to strong winds, choose a model with a more resilient vent with a raised metal structure.

Including one, two, or three panels, the pavilion shelter may have a privacy curtain, mosquito netting or vinyl panel.

• The privacy curtain should have the same features as the roof: flame-resistant, fade-resistant and waterproof. The curtain shields occupants from prying eyes and serves as a wind and UV barrier.
• The mosquito netting works as an insect screen, which can be crucial in the summer.
• The vinyl panel is transparent and provides protection from the wind and rain while letting in natural light.

Certain fabric shelters do not have a track for hanging curtains. Like a tent, the curtains are secured directly over the entire area, which is to say from the centre of the structure to the four support posts. Even though these models are less expensive, they hide more of the view and are not as practical as models with at least one track.

Other models are equipped with a track, or even two or three tracks, depending on the number of curtains. You are then able to open the curtain panels independently and adjust them according to the wind, sun or privacy desired.

To determine the size, establish your available space and the furniture you want to put there. Some models are square, and others are rectangular.

• The standard 10' x 10' model is ideal for a round table with four chairs, or a rectangular table with six standard-size chairs.
• Sizes 10' x 12', 10' x 13' and 12' x 12' are more popular; they can accommodate rectangular tables with comfortable chairs as well as a coffee set if you want, with a sofa, end table and two comfortable armchairs.
• The larger 12' x 16' size is more like another room in the house and you have a great deal of flexibility when it comes to layout and use. Very spacious, they do, however, require a very stable base to maintain and anchor them to the ground.