Gazebos can be made from several materials, each with advantages and disadvantages depending on the purpose for which it will be used. A popular choice is the metal gazebo for its durability and resistance to weather damage. A metal gazebo can be made as a temporary or collapsible structure, or as a more permanent structure, and the pros and cons of a metal gazebo will change depending on whether the structure is permanent or not. In either case, certain metals generally cost less than wood, meaning a metal structure may be more affordable than a wood one. Certain metals, such as iron, can be quite costly, however.
Metals like galvanized steel are resistant to rust and other damage resulting from exposure to water. Steel is a strong metal, and heavier gauges of steel can support a heavy load. Thinner gauges of steel are also fairly strong, and they are also lightweight, making it a good choice for a portable metal gazebo or a smaller permanent structure. Another advantage of steel is its malleability: if the structure is dented or bent for any reason, it is possible to bend the steel back into its original shape without snapping it. Aluminum, on the other hand, is not very malleable and can snap if one tries to bend it back into shape. Wood will splinter or break entirely if damaged.
If a homeowner is looking for a classic gazebo look, metal may not be the best choice. Wood is the traditional material of choice for a gazebo, so a metal gazebo will not have the same aesthetic appeal. Certain metals, such as iron, are certainly aesthetically pleasing, but iron tends to be more expensive than other types of metals. Iron can also be quite heavy, so it is not a good choice for temporary or portable structures. It is a great choice for a permanent structure, especially highly decorative structures or structures that will support climbing vines or other creeping plants.
Aluminum is a great choice for a collapsible metal gazebo because it is very lightweight and rigid. It can be broken down and packed away, and transporting the structure will be easier because it is so light. It is also resistant to rust and corrosion, and requires no treatment to enhance its waterproof qualities. Aluminum is, however, quite rigid, and it can incur irreparable damage if it has to absorb a direct blow.