A gazebo frame can be made from several types of materials, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. There really is no “best” material in general, but there is the best material for a particular gazebo in a certain location. Wooden gazebos are fairly common, and the gazebo frame in this case will be sturdy and aesthetically appealing. Wood, however, will need more maintenance than other materials, which means many homeowners choose to stay away from wood as a gazebo frame material. Steel is commonly used for gazebo material, and it is relatively lightweight and strong as well as resistant to rust when galvanized.
Steel gazebo frame material has become more common for at-home gazebos because it is easy to maintain and it may be molded into different shapes and sizes. While not as aesthetically pleasing as natural wood, steel will last a long time, it will require little maintenance, and it is often lightweight enough to move if the homeowner decides to relocate the gazebo. For the consumer who wants a strong, low-maintenance gazebo at an affordable price, steel is a good choice. Aluminum can also be used as a gazebo frame material, though since aluminum is light-duty metal, it is best for portable or temporary structures. Aluminum is also resistant to rust and corrosion, meaning it will last a long time.
Wood can be a great choice for a gazebo frame, but the homeowner should expect to pay more for natural wood that is properly treated to resist rot, mold, and other damage. Cedar is a commonly used wood for gazebo frames because it is naturally resistant to damage from water and mold, and it is also resistant to bug infestations. Cedar is also very attractive and fairly low maintenance as far as woods go, but it will be more expensive than other options. Pine, for example, will be less expensive, but pine is prone to warping, so one should choose pine boards carefully. Any wood used to construct a gazebo frame should be properly pressure-treated to prevent rot, mold, and even warping.
For an elaborately decorated look, consider wrought iron or cast iron made to look like wrought iron. Wrought iron is essentially iron that has been hand-fashioned, or wrought, into elaborate designs. It is more difficult to find than it has been in the past, and it can be quite pricey, but buying cast iron that is made to look like wrought iron can give a similar look and feel without raising the price tag too high.