The US has a range of extreme weather conditions, therefore, if you’re looking for a decent hardtop gazebo then it’s going to have to be strong, waterproof, sturdy, and durable…
I’ve selected 5 hardtop gazebos from 4 different suppliers and 5 different sizes, to give you a choice of manufacturer, choice of sheltered dry space, all with a range of features.
Best Hardtop Gazebos in 2022
Strong Backyard Patio Gazebos with a solid roof
Purple Leaf Gazebo 10’x10′ Review
This 10′ by 10′ feet hardtop gazebo is ideal for deck or your patio space and will provide a small dry area for relaxing or having drinks with friends.
It can be a tad tricky assembling the roof section as the instructions aren’t great but as long as you or a friend have DIY experience then you’ll have it built in no time at all.
 PURPLE LEAF 10' X 10' Outdoor Hardtop Gazebo We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. |
The roof is 2-tiered which allows for extra ventilation during hot weather and extra stability in windy conditions by providing an exit point for gusts of wind
As there’s a good chance you’ll be leaving it outdoors all year round, the screw plates come in handy as you can screw down the frame legs for further sturdiness in bad weather.
Pros and cons
Pros
- 2-Tiered roof
- Galvinized steel canopy
- Fade resistant roof
- Rustproof frame
- Includes curtains & bug nets
- Will last for years
- Wind Rating of 35mph
- Ideal for patio or deck
- Supports heavy snow load
Cons
- Roof can be tricky to assemble
- Will need 2 to 3 people
Best Purple Leaf 10′ by 10′ Features
Curtains & Bugs Nets
Being able to close the curtains to keep out cool winds or bugs when you’re eating or relaxing could not be more important when you’ve spent so much on a gazebo.
The curtains pull together and can be zippered up to create a fully enclosed gazebo that adds more privacy, keeps the warmth inside and the mosquitos on the outside.
Rust-resistant frame & roof
The solid rooftop is made of galvanized steel for ultimate protection against strong winds, heavy rain and added strength to resist the impact of heavy snow load.
The roof and frame sections are both powder-coated to prevent rusting and are an important factor to ensure that your gazebo is both robust and solid all year round.
Hard or soft ground use
As long as the ground is level, then it doesn’t matter whether you position your new Purple leaf gazebo on hard or soft ground, such as deck, patio, grass, or concrete.
For hard ground, the gazebo can be screwed down using screws to drill into your hard surface. Screws not provided. For soft surfaces, you can use extra-long tent pegs instead.
Sunjoy Chatham Gazebo 10’x12′ Review
This Chatham Gazebo is one of the more popular products sold by Sunjoy, which is a well-known brand, renowned for providing backyard shelters and patio equipment.
The frame is made of alloy steel which is perfect for outdoor structures and buildings as it provides excellent strength and with that, added stability too.
 Sunjoy Chatham Steel Hardtop Gazebo 10'x12' We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. |
The roof is 2 tiered which provides added stability by providing an exit route for gusts of wind to escape instead of putting additional pressure on the roof section.
To assemble this gazebo it is better to have 3 people, sets of ladders to help with the roof section as it’s tricky and heavy, and a drill at standby.
The instructions aren’t clear, so here’s how to build a very similar gazebo as a guide.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Rust Resistant frame
- Built to last
- Roof overhangs uprights
- Screwholes for leg posts
- All-year-round gazebo
- Walk-in height of 79″
- Vented top for fresh air
Cons
- Very heavy (412 pounds)
Best Features of Sunjoy Chatham Gazebo
Heavy Duty Gazebo
I mentioned as a negative that this gazebo is very heavy, weighing a whopping 412 pounds. This is only a negative when building it or choosing a surface to construct it on.
Once this Chatham gazebo is assembled it is a very solid, sturdy gazebo that will withstand snow load, heavy rain, and strong winds. You’ll definitely need help though.
Your gazebo must be on a sound surface that is able to hold a 412-pound gazebo, the weight of your guests and furniture, and the added strains from snow and wind.
Room for furnishings
With an overhanging roof, you have extra dry space which enables you to spread out and use the full area to add furnishings of your choice inside the gazebo.
The best furnishings can include hanging lights, outdoor heaters, patio furniture, hot tub spa, recliners, table and chairs, patio corner sofas, or hook up a power supply for electric goods.
Proceed with caution if you decide to use heaters or a power supply inside as the curtains or furniture could catch fire or splashes from the hot tub could be dangerous with electricity.
Fully Waterproof Gazebo
The solid metal canopy repels all the rain that will hit the rooftop and it will run down the sides. It’s normally best to close the curtains when it’s raining to prevent splashback.
Even with the split 2 tier rooftop, the rain will not leak through due to the design. The top section has extra overhang so rain cannot drip off the top and between the vent.
