Gazebos need to be properly secured to the ground to avoid accidents. There are basically three ways in which you can anchor a gazebo to pavers: drilling them directly into the pavers, driving concrete footers between pavers, or using weights.
Gazebos are often the centerpiece of a hardscape design, and it is not unusual to see even an entire project based on one. So this piece must be properly secured and stable.
This stability is harder to achieve on pavers – since they are not strongly attached to the ground – but it is for sure doable. We’re going to guide you through three ways in which you can provide this security and safely anchor your gazebo on a paver surface.
Read also: Creative leftover paver ideas: don’t let them go to waste!
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How to anchor a gazebo to pavers using a drill
This first method is the most reliable form in which you can anchor your gazebo. But keep in mind that this method will leave permanent holes in your pavers.
Also, to drill the gazebos into place, you’re going to need a special type of screw called masonry screw, also known as tapcon. They are special screws, designed for use in concrete, that expand once they are drilled into place. Alongside the masonry screws, you will also need a masonry drill.
First, align each base of the gazebo where you want it. Then mark the places where you’re going to drill with a pencil. After making all the proper marks, move the gazebo out of place.
Make sure your drill is set on a perfect 90° angle and drill directly into the pavers. Make sure to clean each hole as well as you can, so the screws can attach properly.
After that, slide the gazebo back into place, making sure the holes on the pavers and the post align properly, and then drive the screws into the pavers as far as you can to secure the gazebo in place.
How to anchor a gazebo to pavers using concrete footers
This method can be tricky depending on what kind of bedding you have under your pavers. It consists of digging a hole into the ground directly under the pavers and adding concrete to said hole, so you can see how difficult that can be.
To use this method, first decide on the position you want your gazebo to be. Once you do that, you’ll know what pavers you will need to remove, so mark them with chalk and move the gazebo out of place.
Now you must remove the pavers you marked with chalk. To do that, you can use a flathead screwdriver and a rubber mallet to carefully remove the pavers.
Once the pavers are removed and the round under them exposed, you can dig a hole at least 10 inches deep. The best tool for that job is a post-hole digger, but you can also use a regular shovel. Once the holes are dug, you can place the gazebo posts into them.
Now you add the concrete to the hole to secure the gazebo posts, making sure to level it with the ground. Let it dry for at least 48 hours. After that, you can put the pavers back in place and your gazebo is set.
Read also: How deep to excavate for pavers: a complete guide
How to anchor a gazebo to pavers using weights
This is the easiest and most adaptable method to anchor a gazebo to pavers. It basically consists of adding very heavy weights to the base of your gazebo.
These weights can be virtually anything, but a favorite one in the industry is to use them in combination with planters.
To do that, get 4 large planters, add a bit of sand on each one, and place the gazebo posts inside them. Then pour concrete inside each planter. Around 100 pounds of concrete on each one should do just fine.
Let the concrete dry for around 48 hours and then you’re set. To complete the job, you can fill the planters with soil and plant flowers on top of it.
The best method: get the help of professionals!
These methods are relatively easy to do by yourself, but be aware: they will (aside from the third one) permanently damage your pavers. The best course of action is to always plan the place of a gazebo before the installation of pavers.
If that ship has already sailed, there are tons of ways in which you can properly anchor a gazebo to pavers without damaging your pavers or the infrastructure as a whole.
So always consider first asking for professional help – as experts in the area can make a precise evaluation and determine what would be the best way for you to install your newly acquired gazebo.
If you happen to be in the Sarasota region, the best professionals you can find are here at JS Brick. With 20 years of experience, we are set to deliver the best possible installation of bricks and pavers! Give us a call right now at +1 941 586 9140 for a free estimate on your project.
