You might think that gazebo life requires warm weather, but sometimes the best gazebo days have a snowy white view. Whether it’s snowing where you are right now or you’re (smartly) thinking about the long game, these 8 best hardtop gazebos for snow are sure to fit the bill.
These snow-friendly options are seriously strong and durable while also looking every bit the part of a garden showstopper.
Don’t have time to read? Here’s a quick summary of the products we recommend.
Best Hardtop Gazebo for Snow
Freeport Park Picard Hardtop Aluminum Patio Gazebo
The Freeport Park Picard Hardtop Aluminum Gazebo is an impressive structure that will be at home on properties of any size. With a 12′ x 10′ footprint, it’s the most popular gazebo size.
The Picard is the most budget-friendly option on our list of best hardtop gazebos for snow but you wouldn’t know it from its many features. We especially love that this budget hardtop gazebo includes mosquito netting that zips on all 4 sides. When not in use, the mesh panels tie attractively to the powder-coated aluminum columns.
The roof is made of polycarbonate panels. In addition to polycarbonate being one of the best materials for ensuring that your gazebo stays cool, it’s also incredibly strong. In winter, the Picard can hold a snow load capacity of 1,200 lbs. That’s a foot of snow!
Pros
- The snow load capacity of 1,200 lbs.
- Weight hanging capacity of 50 lbs allows for full-size fan/light to be hung inside
- Polycarbonate roof in the aluminum grid will keep your gazebo cool
- Includes mosquito netting that zips while in use and ties away when not
- Blocks UPF 50+ and 99% of UV rays
- Sleek and clean design that will be at home in contemporary gardens
Cons
- Assembly instructions for the roof could be clearer
Sol 72 Outdoor Windermere Aluminum Patio Gazebo
The Windermere Aluminum Patio Gazebo by Sol 72 Outdoor is another impressive, budget-friendly option for the outdoor space on our list. Although the galvanized-steel roof has the lowest snow load capacity of our included recommendations, 600 lbs of snow are nothing to sneeze at!
We love the dark brown finish of the powder-coated aluminum frame. At only 200 lbs, the Windermere gazebo is extremely light compared to other hardtop models because of its frame. But make no mistake about it, a gazebo’s durability and strength have more to do with smart design than the weight of materials.
The overall design of the Windermere is subtle yet sophisticated, which makes it the perfect focal point for any landscape or hardscape style.
Pros
- The snow load capacity of 600 lbs
- Wind resistant up to 46 mph
- Durable galvanized steel roof
- Strong yet light powder-coated aluminum frame
- Includes mesh screens for mosquito control
Cons
- Does not include curtains
Kozyard 10′ Aluminum Patio Gazebo
The 10′ Aluminum Patio Gazebo is the smaller model on the list from our friends at Kozyard. This outdoor gazebo manufacturer is known for great customer service and durable products. The 10′ model is perfect for warming up a winter day with the flavors of the summer grill session. Even in the heart of winter, you and your family will be cozy under the galvanized steel roof that holds up to 2,500 lbs. of snow!
We love the sleek rustic appearance of this 10′ gazebo. It also comes with insect-repelling, mesh screens for privacy and protection. For ultimate care, we recommend that you remove large amounts of snow from the roof. However, with a rust-resistant and powder-coated aluminum frame, you can feel good about leaving this gazebo outdoors all year round.
Pros
- The snow load capacity of 2,500 lbs.
- Wind rated up to 46 mph
- Roof hanging weight capacity of 30 lbs.
- Mesh screens included
- Galvanized steel tiered roof
Cons
- Foundation required
- No commercial warranty
Zenova Steel Grill Gazebo
The good folks at Zenova have done it again with their sustainably-manufactured Steel Grill Gazebo. Not only can you feel great about those summertime vibes in winter, but you’ll also feel better knowing you’ve made a sustainable investment for the planet. This gazebo was made using carbon-neutral technology, which makes it as green as the asparagus on your next grill menu.
With the 10′ x 10′ gazebo kit, we love the small footprint of this grill gazebo. It’s large enough to comfortably accommodate four people with seating but small enough to fit into almost any size yard.
And you definitely don’t need to worry about snow! The Zenova’s roof holds up to 1,500 lbs. of the white stuff on the outside and 30 lbs. of hanging interior lights.
Pros
- The snow load capacity of 1,500 lbs.
- Manufactured with Reduced Carbon Certification
- Heavy-duty galvanized steel roof
- Roof hanging weight capacity of 30 lbs.
- UV- and rust-resistant frame and roof
- Wind rated up to 21 mph
- Mesh privacy screen included
Cons
- Short product warranty length (6 months)
Gazebo Penguin Venus 16′ Aluminum Patio Gazebo
We love Gazebo Penguin products and the 16′ Venus is no exception. It’s one of the few 16′ gazebos that we’ve had the privilege to experience and it’s perfect. While the standard 12’x12′ footprint is ideal for small-medium yards, it’s amazing how much more living you can do in nearly 200 square feet! Best for medium-sized properties in any climate, the Venus will keep you and a small party dry and happy on a winter day.
Venus is especially great for regions prone to heavy wind throughout the year. Tested for gusts up to 46 mph, the secret is in the polycarbonate roof that caps the powder-coated aluminum frame.
Available in two neutral colors, the Venus is as attractive and sophisticated as it is ideal for withstanding whatever Mother Nature brings.
Pros
- The snow load capacity of 100 lbs.
- Slate Grey and Brown color options
- Durable polycarbonate roof
- Roof hanging weight capacity of 20 lbs.
- UV-, rust-, and mildew-resistant frame and roof
- Wind rated up to 46 mph
- Mesh privacy screen and curtains included
Cons
- Heavy product, requires all-day assembly
Kozyard 20′ Alexander Aluminum Patio Gazebo
The Kozyard Alexander Aluminum Patio Gazebo is a serious gazebo. It is elegant and clean design almost makes you forget that it can handle weather with a capital “W”. With a snow load capacity of 4,500 lbs (!) and wind resistance up to 40 mph, this gazebo isn’t going anywhere.
The Alexander has an extra-large footprint to accommodate large gatherings and oversized furniture. The double-track system allows for the included mosquito netting and polyester sidewalls to move independently of each other, which is especially useful in an all-season gazebo.
We love the use of weathered steel which will fade from a standard metal color to a more rustic shade after being exposed to the elements. No matter your property’s style, the Alexander will develop a patina that matches its surroundings.
Such high-quality materials and thoughtful design make the Alexander one of our favorite hardtop gazebos for snow!
Pros
- A strong galvanized steel roof can withstand a snow load of 4,500 lbs
- Wind resistant up to 40 mph
- Rain gutters
- Made from 100% recycled materials
- Weathered steel construction pleasantly fades color with the seasons
- Extra-large design for hosting parties and oversized furniture
- Includes mosquito netting and polyester sidewalls
Cons
- No commercial warranty
Purple Leaf Double Roof Aluminum Patio Gazebo
Like the Dahlin above, the Purple Leaf Double Roof Aluminum Patio Gazebo is one of our overall favorite gazebos. The steel roof is designed to quickly usher out hot air in the summer while also withstanding the weight of 2 feet of snow.
Equipped with rain gutters, mosquito netting, and privacy curtains, the Double Roof is a moderately-sized gazebo with features for every season.
We especially love the Double Roof for its sleek design that’s not 100% contemporary but also not entirely classic-looking either. It has a handsome profile with a roofline and texture that reminds us of Japanese pagodas.
Pros
- The snow load capacity of 2,500 lbs
- Eastern-inspired design
- Rain gutters
- Single-tier vented roof to help regulate temperature
- No foundation needed
Cons
- Only available in one size and one color
Sunjoy Chatham Steel Hardtop Gazebo
The Chatham Gazebo from Sunjoy makes our list of the best hardtop gazebo options due to its elegant design and sturdy construction.
A double top vented roof design allows air to move freely to help keep you cool in the summer and provide ventilation if you should feel the need to run a heater on chili days or would like to barbeque out of the sun.
The included mosquito net curtains help you remain pest-free and each leg has a hidden anchor that can be used to secure this hardtop gazebo to a pad or deck for added rigidity and security on windy days.
With an appearance that is reminiscent of classic oriental architecture combined with modern powder-coated materials, the Chatham will compliment any outdoor living space for years to come and provide all-season comfort for you and your loved ones no matter the weather.
Pros
- Vented roof to prevent heat buildup and create convection airflow
- Can be bolted down for security of left freestanding
- At 10×12 feet an ideal gazebo for all size garden areas
- Mosquito netting included
- Powder-coated steel and aluminum frame for rust resistance
Cons
- A limited number of options available
Bay Isle Home Dahlin Hardtop Aluminum Patio Gazebo
Don’t let the classically elegant lines of the Dahlin Hardtop Aluminum Patio Gazebo fool you. This gazebo is built to last.
The Dahlin is one of our overall favorite hardtop gazebos because it’s the perfect focal point for your garden while also holding its own next to heavier, fully enclosed models.
The durable, rust-resistant steel roof is especially tough for its snow load capacity of 2,500 lbs while also boasting a single-tier air vent. That means that this ultimate hardtop gazebo for snow is also designed for maximum airflow in the hottest months.
The Dahlin features rain gutters that are smartly angled so that water is directed well beyond the gazebo’s edge, keeping you dry in a downpour. There are so many special features for every climate in this elegant and timeless design.
Pros
- The snow load capacity of 2,500 lbs
- Single-tier roof vent to help regulate temperature
- Elegant European design
- A hanging weight capacity of 15 lbs will accommodate a light or fan
- Includes mosquito netting and privacy curtains
Cons
- Only available in one size and one color
Common Questions
Are hardtop gazebos hot?
Whether a hardtop gazebo is hot can depend on a number of factors.
- Climate
- The design of the gazebo roof
- The materials the gazebo is made of
- Whether you use curtains or not
Obviously, there is nothing we can do about the weather other than try to compensate for it with sound engineering and wise choices.
Roof Design
One of the biggest factors that will determine how hot a gazebo gets is the design of the roof. Most hardtop gazebos are going to have some form of venting system. The best hardtop gazebos will likely have a double roof design where one or more roof panels of the top are actually raised slightly and form a small roof over a hole in the primary roof.
This, through a natural convection flow, allows hot air to escape and draws in cooler air from the surrounding area. This naturally keeps you cooler than if you were sitting under a solid roof that will trap heat in hot summer months.
Gazebo Materials
Next on our list is what materials your gazebo is made of. Since a gazebo is an open-sided structure the roofing material is naturally the primary concern. Different materials conduct heat differently and some can actually reflect heat.
Wood Roof Panels
Wooden gazebo kits are generally considered the coolest. Wood doesn’t absorb the sun’s heat as quickly as other commonly used materials. This is of course provided the kit has a shake roof, instead of using other types of roofing materials.
Polycarbonate Roof Panels
After wood the next best material for roofing a hardtop gazebo is Polycarbonate. As an added bonus poly is resilient, can be found in many different thicknesses, and can even be clear or transparent allowing natural light to pass through while still blocking harmful UV radiation.
Depending on the colors chosen, poly can actually have a heat absorption and transmission rate that is lower even than wood at a fraction of the cost and weight. Polycarbonate roof panels are also much easier to care for.
Metal Roof
Metal roofing regardless of whether it is a galvanized steel roof, powder-coated, or an aluminum gazebo kit is going to be the warmest in the summer months.
A metal roof is prone to trapping and transmitting heat. There is a reason that metal is used to make cookware. There are few if any materials that conduct heat better. But, if you are wanting the maximum longevity out of your hardtop gazebo with minimum maintenance then metal is hard to beat.
Curtains
The last factor that affects how hot your hardtop gazebo might get is whether you use side curtains or not. The secret to maintaining a comfortable temperature under your gazebo is air movement. Screens, curtains, and even mosquito netting all restrict airflow to some extent.
The less air moves the more heat will be trapped and the hotter you will get. When possible, let the airflow to stay cool and comfortable.
Can a hardtop gazebo stay up all year?
Yes, a hardtop gazebo can be left all year round. You do need to take into consideration your local climate, the materials your gazebo is made of, and its structural strength.
If you live in an area that is subject to heavy snowfall then some lighter polycarbonate roofs or thinner metal roof gazebos might be damaged. You should check the manufacturer’s specifications to verify the load limits of your gazebo in these areas.
A soft-top gazebo or sunshade should not be subjected to poor weather conditions. Any time high winds, snowfall, or even heavy rains are called for you should remove the canopy and store it till fairer weather prevails.
How long do metal gazebos last?
Metal gazebos can be expected to last for 5 to 15 years, depending on the specific materials it is made from, how well it was constructed, and the prevailing weather conditions.
Gazebos come in a variety of grades with many being of superior quality and some of less sturdy materials. You should also take into consideration the prevailing weather patterns in your location. A gazebo that might be ideal for the Florida sun where it must endure high UV exposure might not last under New England weather conditions and vice versa.
Of course one of the most important factors affecting the service life of a gazebo is how well it is put together. Most gazebos that come in kit form can be put together by anyone with basic DIY skills. But, can and should are not always the same thing. If you have any doubts about being able to build your gazebo where it will be as sturdy as possible, hire a professional.
Can gazebos stay up all year?
Whether a gazebo can stay up all year will depend on the gazebo and local climate.
Soft top gazebos should have their canopies removed and stored any time high winds, snow, or heavy rains are in the forecast.
In most cases, a hardtop gazebo can be left in place year-round without any major issues. This of course is dependent on the weather in your local. Any structure, whether it be a gazebo, house, or office building will have limits as to the weight, and wind it can endure.
Consider what you are going to be asking of your gazebo, compare it to the specifications, and take action accordingly.
Will a hard-top gazebo last in the winter?
Yes, a hardtop sun shelter will last in the winter provided they do not become overloaded with snow or become uprooted by high winds.
Almost all manufacturers will list their snow-bearing or weight capacity and give some advice about properly anchoring the gazebo.
When shopping for a hardtop gazebo carefully consider the prevailing weather in your area and look for gazebo kits that match your needs.
How much is a permanent gazebo?
A hardtop gazebo can run you anywhere from $500 to well over $10,000 depending on the make, model, and size that you are looking for.
Most hardtop gazebo kits with 100 to 144 sqft of the covered area will be fall in between $900 and $3,500.
Hardtop gazebos come in many different styles and quality levels. As in usually the case, you are going to get what you pay for and the more you are willing to spend the higher quality you will be able to purchase.
To maximize your budget, it is often possible to find excellent deals on quality gazebos at the end of summer. Like air conditioners, many people look at gazebos as a summertime purchase and the increased demand drives up prices. Buying off-season can often save you hundreds.
What to Consider When Buying a Hardtop Gazebo for Snow?
How Much Snow Are We Really Talking About?
Our recommendations for the best hardtop gazebo for snow have snow load capacities from 600-2,400 lbs. That’s between 7 inches to 2 feet of snow…which is a lot. If you live in an especially snowy climate, no doubt that these options are your best bet for true gazebo outdoor living space year-round.
But keep in mind that there are many gazebos not on our list with the ability to withstand some snow with no problem. There are hundreds of gazebo options out there with a snow load of 20-200 lbs which would accommodate annual snowfall for many regions.
Bottom line: we love our list of gazebos designed for snow. But there are plenty of other snow-friendly options with additional features that might be even more important for your lifestyle.
Care and Maintenance
One of the primary factors in determining how long your hardtop gazebo will last is proper care and maintenance. No matter the gazebo, you need to properly maintain your investment so that you can enjoy it for 10-20 years down the road.
This point is especially true for gazebos that stay up in the snow. Any gazebo that stays outside all year should be periodically cleaned by simply wiping down the frame and roof. If there’s been a snowfall, be sure to clear the snow off the gazebo roof.
Remember that snow load capacity is only a measure of the weight that a structure can hold. It does not mean that letting 2 feet of snow sit on your roof for 5 months is a good thing for the longevity of your investment.
Final Thoughts
One of the best ways to spend a lazy winter Sunday afternoon is outside in your own snow-friendly gazebo. We hope we’ve given you the information and options that you need to make the best decision for purchasing a hardtop gazebo for snow.
Just remember there are many more gazebos out there that can accommodate some snowfall so make sure that you ask that question of every option you’re considering. And most importantly, take care of your gazebo no matter the season!
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
