A gazebo canopy is the part of the gazebo that provides protection from the elements. It is essentially the top of the structure, though some gazebo canopy styles will stretch down over part or all of the gazebo structure as well. Several types of materials are available for construction of a gazebo canopy, and some materials are more long-term structures than others. Vinyl, for example, is lightweight and cheap, but it is susceptible to damage from wind, rain, snow, and even sun. Other, heavy-duty, fabrics are available for canopy construction.
Canvas is commonly used in construction of a gazebo canopy because it is durable, relatively easy to install, and available in a variety of styles and colors. It can be taken down and stored during winter months as well, making it quite versatile. It can be heavy, however, and canvas tends to be more expensive than other fabrics used for a gazebo canopy. The extra cost is easily justified when one considers how little time will be spent on maintenance, and how much less damage will be done to the canvas as a result of normal use during changing weather. It is a rugged choice that will provide a good return on investment.
Permanent structures will require a gazebo canopy that is durable, waterproof, and aesthetically similar or at least complementary to the rest of the structure. Wooden gazebos, for example, often feature wooden canopies, though other materials can be used as well. The best choice of wood for a canopy on a wooden gazebo is cedar because it is more resistant to water damage, mold, mildew, and bug infestation than other types of wood. Cedar is also a naturally beautiful wood that will require little or no additional decoration or painting. It can, however, require some maintenance after years of use, as all woods are susceptible to some rot after time.
Metal canopies are quite common on both wood and metal gazebos. Metals such as aluminum and steel are common choices because they are relatively inexpensive and durable. Aluminum is naturally corrosion- and rust-resistant, though it is less durable than steel. Steel canopies are strong and usually quite attractive, though they should be made from galvanized steel to protect the metal from rust and corrosion. Iron can also be used as a canopy material, though it is generally more expensive than other materials.