TheStreet aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Nothing’s more enjoyable in the summer than spending time on your patio during a backyard barbecue. However, doing so while the hot sun is not quite as appealing a prospect. That’s why summer is primetime for gazebo shopping. You can find them at just about every price point, and the one you choose has a lot to do with your needs and budget. There are two ways of looking at this type of purchase. Either you spend more for something that’s at least semi-permanent, or you save a bit of cash and choose a gazebo that’s not expected to last quite as long.That’s not to say that the less expensive choice isn’t necessarily well made. There’s no denying, though, that the less you spend on a gazebo, the less robust the materials and construction are likely to be. This goes for almost any item in your home, so as long as you have all the pertinent information, you’re sure to make the right decision. Benefits of a backyard gazeboA backyard gazebo offers a host of benefits for those who enjoy spending time in their home’s outdoor spaces, regardless of square footage. One of the most obvious upsides to having a gazebo in your yard is shade from the sun. Not only does a gazebo keep you cooler, but it also protects you from harmful UV rays. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and the rate of diagnosis is increasing steadily. You should always wear sunscreen while outdoors, but during peak UV hours (between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm), seeking shade and keeping the sun off your skin altogether is a good call. That should be reason enough to get a new gazebo, and one that specifically protects against ultraviolet rays. In addition to protecting you and your guests from the sun, a gazebo also keeps precipitation at bay. If you want to hang out in your backyard, regardless of the weather, then a gazebo is the way to go. Whether it’s a small sprinkle or a torrential downpour, you don’t want rain to keep you from enjoying the patio. It can also protect your outdoor furniture from constant rain bombardment, which helps improve its longevity. That’s why a gazebo is worth getting, rain or shine.In addition to the environmental benefits of a backyard gazebo, there are also benefits specifically to those who are concerned with aesthetics and entertaining. The right gazebo can pull the entire look of your patio together, making it feel put-together and intentional. What’s more, it can be a place to hang wind chimes, solar lights, or anything else that goes with your personal decor scheme. Most gazebos fit in one of two categories, which are permanent gazebos or portable gazebos.Permanent gazebosPermanent gazebos tend to have a slightly higher price ceiling, and that’s no surprise. Many of these have thick steel or aluminum frames, and some even have metal roofs. They almost always have full UV protection, side curtains, and an air vent at the top to keep air flow constant. Permanent models sometimes have baseplates at the bottom as well for anchoring the gazebo to the ground beneath. And of course, they tend to be slightly larger than their portable counterparts. If you don’t plan on taking your gazebo to the beach or to a family picnic in the park, then a permanent model is probably best.Dwvo Hard Top Double Roof Gazebo
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Check price at AmazonBetter Homes and Gardens Marlow Gazebo
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Check price at WalmartCostway Large Patio Gazebo
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Check price at TargetPortable gazebosUnlike permanent gazebos, portable models are intended to be raised and lowered quickly. Similar to permanent options, they’re usually made from stainless steel or aluminum, but they are often more lightweight than permanent ones. These are great for taking to the beach, a park, or using in your backyard or on your patio. Portable canopies are more versatile overall than permanent ones. There are very few limits on where you might be able to use one, making them a great option for families. Portable gazebos almost always include a carrying bag, some of which even have wheels. They’re intended to be thrown into your vehicle and taken on the go, so for those who like to make spur-of-the-moment plans, a portable gazebo is ideal.Cobizi Pop Up Gazebo
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Check price at AmazonSkyshalo Pop Up Waterproof Canopy
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Check price at WalmartCostway Portable Outdoor Canopy
Courtesy of Target
Check price at TargetIf you’re looking forward to summer fun on the patio, then you should probably consider a backyard gazebo. Whether you’re hoping to get one that becomes a permanent fixture of your space or you want something to grab and go, there are plenty of options from which to choose. The sooner you get yours, the sooner you can enjoy that afternoon barbecue in the shade. TheStreet Shopping is your guide for shopping insights and advice. We look beyond the price tag to find the best value in home, tech, and wellness gear based on product features and real-world use.