Is your gazebo starting to show its age? I feel you, and I’m here to help.
Instead of letting that beautiful gazebo go to waste at a junkyard, let me tell you what to do with an old metal gazebo frame.
There are plenty of amazing ideas you can try, such as transforming that old frame into a garden fence, outdoor sculpture, or even a wedding arch. If you’re looking for an indoor use for your gazebo frame, repurposing it into a headboard is a great option.
Read on to learn more about my favorite ways to reuse a metal gazebo frame.
What to Do With an Old Metal Gazebo Frame
Tired of how your old gazebo metal frame is making your backyard look?
Here are some of my favorite ways to repurpose gazebo frames:
1 – Garden Fence
Is your garden fence looking a little worse for wear?
In that case, why not transform that old gazebo frame into a fence upgrade?
As someone who’s been there, and done that, I can tell you that this DIY project is going to take time and effort. The result is going to be worth it, though!
The first thing to do is take off any fabric on the gazebo frame. Next, weld some fencing onto the frame. You can also use bolts to attach the fencing too.
Don’t forget to bring out your creative side with some awesome decorations as well.
2 – Outdoor Furniture
If you’re in need of some new lawn furniture, your old metal gazebo frame is a great base material to make some.
Don’t worry. I’m not suggesting that you have a seat on cold, hard metal. Attach soft cushions and fabric on the metal to make those seats as comfortable and cozy as possible.
Do you know what’s even better?
You can use your metal gazebo frame to make a swing to have a bunch of fun on with your family and friends.
All you need to do is hand a couple of sturdy seats to the frame, hop on the swing, and enjoy a relaxing time as you breathe in some fresh air.
3 – Outdoor Sculpture
Another thing you can do with your gazebo frame is embrace the artist in you.
You can transform what was once a regular metal frame into a magnificent sculpture to add some pizzazz to your backyard.
To spruce up the sculpture, you can incorporate various materials like wood, glass, or marble.
4 – Dining Area
Have none of the ideas above tickled your fancy? I’m pretty sure this idea will pique your interest, though—especially if you’re a foodie.
Why not use your metal frame to close off a dining area in your garden?
Throw in a rustic table and some comfy chairs, and you’re good to go. If you want to go the extra mile, add some cloth drapes and string lights to your setup.
Trust me, this new area will become a hotspot for your guests. You can also use it for picnics with the family!
5 – Headboard
All the ideas I’ve suggested so far have been for outdoor uses for your old metal gazebo frame. So, let’s switch it up on this one:
Repurpose your gazebo frame into a headboard for your bed.
Take down that frame, weld some wood panels onto it, add some decorations for a personal touch, and you’ve got a great headboard on your hands.
You can even repaint the frame using a color that complements the overall design in your bedroom. Do you know what the best part is?
Repurposing your frame into a headboard instead of buying a new one saves you a lot of money!
6 – Wedding Arch
Is your wedding or that of a loved one coming up soon?
How about sprucing up your old gazebo frame and using it to make an amazing wedding arch?
You can cover any blemishes or imperfections on the frame with fabric and colorful flowers.
7 – Garden Trellis
Do you want to add an exotic twist to your backyard?
I’m here to tell you the best way to do so – and that is to turn your gazebo frame into a majestic vertical garden trellis.
The metal structure will act as a base for a variety of vines, climbing plants, and colorful flowers that’ll be sure to put a smile on your face every time you look at it.
How to Take Down a Metal Gazebo Frame
Before you can use your metal gazebo frame for any of the amazing ideas above, you’ll need to take it apart first.
Although a gazebo frame is a behemoth of a structure, dismantling it isn’t that big of a deal. You should make sure to get any ornaments, plants, or anything else that may get damaged out of the way before you start, though.
Also, it’s better if there’s someone to help you take down the frame. I say that because doing it alone puts you at risk of damaging the frame or injuring yourself.
You should also handle each component of the frame carefully rather than hastily taking them down. I recommend starting with the roof, followed by the support beams, rails, and posts.
FAQs
How can you attach wood to a metal gazebo frame?
Some of the ideas above require you to attach wood to your gazebo frame. To do so, you should pre-drill holes in the metal frame.
Alternatively, you can use bolts. Next, bolt the wood to the frame. Use the pre-drilled holes, along with guide holes drilled in the wood, to fix the wood to the frame.
What metal are gazebo frames made with?
Manufacturers usually use one of two metals to make gazebo frames.
The most popular choice is corrosion-resistant aluminum. The protective layer on this metal makes it great at withstanding the wear and tear of being outdoors.
This isn’t to mention how aluminum being lightweight makes it easy to handle and assemble.
You can also find gazebo frames made out of steel.
Can you leave a metal gazebo up all year?
Do you know what’s better than repurposing your gazebo frame?
Properly maintaining it so you don’t need to do so in the first place.
Many people make the mistake of leaving their gazebo up all year without giving it the proper protection. If you want your gazebo to last as long as possible, make sure to treat it with a rust sealant once or twice every year.
Final Thoughts
Metal gazebos don’t come cheap. So, when yours starts to look a little worse for wear, you should think twice about giving it away as scrap metal.
If you’re wondering what to do with an old metal gazebo frame, I can confidently tell you that there are a whole lot of ways to repurpose these structures into something spectacular.
Some of my favorite ideas include transforming the frame into a garden trellis, garden fence, or outdoor furniture. Doing any of these things is sure to add a rustic feel to your backyard’s look.
What are you waiting for? Put your DIY hat on and try out one of the projects I described above!
Ben has a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering. When not constructing or remodeling X-Ray Rooms, Cardiovascular Labs, and Pharmacies, you can find him at home with wife and two daughters. Outside of family, He loves grilling and barbequing on his Big Green Egg and Blackstone Griddle, as well as working on projects around the house.
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