Pavilion Options: Making the Best Decisions
Do you have a personal retreat in mind that you’ve been itching to create in real life? We’ve all been there; hustling the hustle to get to our dream life, and some of us have forgotten to live out our dreams in real time. If you think it’s time to create reality, we have the secret to finally getting from Point A (grassy area) to Point B (lush outdoor living space).
Let’s get started with the options and choices.
Next Summer: Skim the options
Install a base: does a pavilion come with a floor?
Top it off: roof options for pavilions
Entertaining in pavilions: accessorize
EZ Shade Canopy System
Start now: checklist to buying a pavilion
Install a base: does a pavilion come with a floor?
Pavilions come without floors, which leaves the question of whether you like a base of stone, wood, or concrete better.
Concrete is the first option, and one that sounds unglamorous but can actually masquerade as almost any type of base. There is the option of pouring a simple flat floor of concrete, but concrete can also be stamped, stained, and finished to look like stone or wood. This is a project you will want to hire a professional to have done, as the tools and skills of the trade aren’t usually laying around the garage.
Stone is one of the traditional and beautiful bases. Lay in a pattern of “tile,” flagstones, or simple geometric patterns and you will have something to admire that will hold up for years to come. Only attempt this yourself if you have landscaping or construction background.
Wood, the option that isn’t quite as popular but nonetheless viable. Probably a best option for the type of weather it will have to withstand is composite decking, or a sturdy decking board made of something like a hardwood and finished with an outdoor stain or paint. Also best done by a professional.
Top it off: roof options for pavilions
Roofs are arguably a necessity for a structure like a pavilion, but they are also a fun option to decide on.
Shingles are made of asphalt and are the workhorse of the roofing industry, coming in at lifetime guarantees of anywhere from 10-25 years. They are considered an entry or mid-level option for those looking to go easy on their wallet and get a roof that will last them a good while. Come in a nice variety of color options.
Metal is the relatively new kid on the block and is becoming the desired choice for many gazebo owners because of its longevity, look, and beautiful sound it makes when it rains. It has a slightly increased price tag, but by the same token lasts for more than a lifetime. Also available in a good range of colors and designs.
There is a difference between standard metal and standing seam roofs. The basic metal roof has exposed screws, with seams overlapped, while a standing seam roof has overlapped ridges bent to shed water better. The standing seam roof has hidden fastenings and more of a “finished” or polished look. Standing seam tends to run more expensive.
Entertaining in pavilions: accessorize
By nature these open air outdoor structures are charming places to host a crowd, and there are a few options to make it even better for a home or business venue.
This pavilion combination is the perfect way to illustrate the customizations and accessories you can add to a pavilion. The owners first began by dreaming up a building/pavilion combination and then added a beautiful wood ceiling, light fixtures, and an electrical package. The floor is laid with stone tile and the pergola itself has 10” columns instead of the standard posts.
Not all outdoor living companies may offer advanced options such as this, but if you want to discuss options for simple of luxe outdoor structures, Ulrich Lifestyle will be glad to help you with questions.
EZ Shade Canopy System
Again, an option not available with every manufacturer, but a fantastic option to add to your pergola for comfort and design. This canopy can be installed on a pergola to give you privacy or protect from the sun, wind or rain. It is installed on a triple track system to be opened and closed easily, and the material used is strong, fade-resistant, and available in a fun variety of prints and colors.
The other, more permanent option is a wall built in on one side for the same reasons, but with a longer lifetime.
Start now: checklist for buying a pavilion
Fall & Winter: create a budget and plan your space. Look at building sizes, measure your outdoor space, search Pinterest, pick-up brochures from companies, browse websites, and dream of the greener days to come. Decide on whether or not to hire landscaper.
Spring: actively begin shopping. Price and quality compare, check to see who offers free delivery and installation and who doesn’t. Surprise! Manufacturers really get busy in the spring, so you may have over a month of lead time for the best pavilions. If you wait until April or May you might have 1-2 months to wait. Engage someone to level your space or put in a base.
Summer: provide level base or foundation, and start haunting greenhouses and home project stores. Pavilion installed.
Enjoy: Once the pavilion is in you have the major part of the project out of the way and you can lay stone, plant flowers and begin to cook-out to your heart’s content!
Helpful links: What is a Pavilion → Wood vs. Vinyl Pavilion
Happy shopping!
Comments