Gazebo

Treated lumber was used throughout with the exception of the cedar shake shingles. High grade redwood is difficult to locate around here and also much higher in cost. For instance; the cedar shakes for the roof was $630. If I had it to do over, I would use composition shingles that sort of resembles shakes.

A challenge to build, but I did enjoy it most of the time. Being an octagonal shape means a large amount of lumber had to cut to fit. The eight separate footings were a bit tricky to lineup and fill with cement. Also a big challenge was not falling off the roof.

During August when I installed the shakes, the temperature was so hot, I could only work early morning and late evenings, then only complete one section of the roof a day. All shakes had to be cut to fit, but cedar shakes do look much better than regular shingles.

The gazebo is a pleasant outdoor retreat for social gatherings or soothing private reflection. This year we plan to add some plants around the base and hang a few flowers from the rafters.

If I could, I would use redwood throughout.