Gazebo Weights

There are a few types of gazebo weights on the market today, each with their own pros and cons. Whichever you choose, aim for at least 12–15 kg on every leg of a 3 m × 3 m gazebo, more if it's larger, has sidewalls, or will be used somewhere exposed – and check what your market or event organiser requires.

• Sandbags – These are usually the most affordable. They are fabric bags, sometimes designed to wrap around the leg of the gazebo. You buy the bags and then fill them with sand. They can be easily damaged and may leak, and like all fabrics they will deteriorate in the sun over time. The weight you've achieved needs to be verified before you can rely on it.
• Plastic weights – These usually come empty and need filling with sand, water, or both before use. They are usually sturdier than sandbags and last longer in the sun, but are still subject to UV degradation and accidental damage. Water is lighter than sand, so the same weight filled with water won't reach its rated figure. After filling, you'll need to weigh them to verify the weight you've achieved.
• Cast iron weights – These are usually the dearest, but are ready to use straight away. They typically have weight ratings printed on or cast into them, and are increasingly required by event organisers such as Sunday markets. They are also the most durable and usually come painted to prevent rust. The paint can scratch off, but scratches are easily touched up with a spray can. One caution: cast iron is brittle, so don't drop them – a fall onto a hard surface can crack or chip them.