Update May-2021: Due to UK post-lockdown it is a popular time for people to be renovating their gardens. You may find some models on our list are out of stock. Available on our list, we can vouch for the Runcton Polycarbonate Gazebo reviewed below.
Our experts spent around 16 hours in our workshop, assembling shortlisted polycarbonate gazebos.
Eventually, we found a gazebo with a polycarbonate roof that stands above our other picks in terms of value, community rating and how easy it was to assemble.
Any one of these will make a great addition to your garden. They really look the part!
Polycarbonate Gazebo Comparison
Let’s get started….
What is a Polycarbonate Gazebo?
We’re garden furniture experts, not scientists. Let’s all get on the same page with this term.
Polycarbonate refers to the material that is used on the gazebo roof. Because it is UV resistant it is desirable for gazebos in order to protect your garden furniture from fading.
Additionally, this material is perfect for a gazebo because of the following properties:
- Waterproof
- UV Resistant
- Shatterproof
- Lightweight
- Highly durable (4x the impact resistance of fiberglass)
- Withstands basically any weather in Great Britain
Typically, polycarbonate is a clear plastic used to make shatterproof windows (for example greenhouses).
Let’s just say if a bird flies into your product, it won’t make a dent. Sorry mother nature!
1. Palram Palermo Garden Gazebo 3x3m – Best Overall
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Palram’s tagline is “add a touch of class and luxury to your garden” and that’s exactly what this beauty achieves. The model in question is the “3000 Square” but it is worth noting there are other styles and sizes available which may be more suitable for your own garden.
One thing to note is that due to popular demand as of August 2020 it may show as temporarily out of stock. We are awaiting an update from the manufacturer.
At the time of writing, this scored an average of 4.1 out of 5 from 49 customer ratings. For garden furniture, this is exceptionally good. This is likely why it is out of stock.
Pros
- Roof ventilation ornament (can be used as a smoking shelter)
- Bronze glazing transmits natural sunlight on overcast days and creates shade from UV on sunny days (we love this)
- Corrosion resistant anthracite finish
Cons
- No side curtains included
- Stickers can be difficult to remove (use rubbing alcohol!)
Conclusion:
This is one pretty piece of kit that has been crafted to withstand and enhance the British weather. We are in love with the bronze glazing, it feels lovely on overcast and blazingly sunny days – win win.
Ultimately, this creates a very attractive shaded gathering area anywhere in a garden. We placed this on a patio and it looked fantastic too.
Professional tip: If you’re looking to buy a curtain set for your Palram Gazebo, here’s the matching curtain set. With the curtain set, it makes a fantastic option as a hot tub gazebo due to the privacy.
Also, if you’re looking to move fairly quickly, here’s an alternative the Runcton Polycarbonate Gazebo.
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2. Outsunny Aluminium Polycarbonate 3x3m – Best Value
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Outsunny is dominating the poly-scene at the moment. While we recommend this 3 x 3 model as a guide, they also have the same style in 2m hexagonal, 3.6m x 3m and a 3m x 3.6m version.
Again, because everyone is doing their gardens during lockdown, you may find this product out of stock.
At the time of writing, this scored an average of 4.3 out of 5 from 26 customer ratings.
Pros
- Comes complete with side panels and net
- Extremely solid and sturdy feel
- Panels are UV treated
- Windproof frame
Cons
- Difficult to construct (reported by other users)
Conclusion:
Obviously assembly is required but all necessary hardware comes with the product including 8 ground nails. All in all, with our team it took 1 person 3 hours to assemble (at a leisurely pace).
We really liked this one because it has all you need from a poly gazebo. It looks smart and elegant, it is UV resistant and the panels will be easily cleaned.
Never let the weather dictate when you can have a BBQ again – the side panels work a treat.
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3. Runcton Polycarbonate Gazebo 3×3.6m – Best Newcomer
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As a brand, Runcton has come out of nowhere. They have a style slightly different to the traditional manufacturers listed above and the perfect ratings put this product on our radar.
As we write, this scored an average of 4.8 out of 5 from 6 customer ratings. We know this is “early days” but people are hard to please when it comes to garden structures like this.
Let’s have a look at what divided us.
Pros
- Quality materials (thick curtains, zips are solid and fly screen)
- Hanging brackets for gazebo lights
- Perfect for decking
- Beautiful anthracite finish
Cons
- Will take 5 – 6 hours to construct (but most on this list will)
Conclusion:
This won’t be everyone’s cup of tea but we liked it.
Once assembled it has a very elegant, high end finish and the panels are UV resistant allowing you to hide from the sun and protect your garden furniture.
It’s a great newcomer and that’s why it made the cut. Also, if this model is slightly too big for you there is the standard 3m x 3m Runcton gazebo.
>> Click Here for Today’s Price & Buyer Reviews <<
>> Click Here for Today’s Price & Buyer Reviews <<
Let’s say you have no budget and you want the best quality investment. The german made Toolport Alu Deluxe could be the one for you.
It brands itself as a luxurious all-weather pavilion and it is just that. The sturdy structure and high quality materials boast the maximum protection and comfort that a polycarbonate gazebo can offer. It is lovely.
As we write, this scored an average of 4.4 out of 5 from 57 customer ratings. As with all garden structures there can be a stark divide in reviews. Luckily, Toolport are fairly responsive if you come into problems or need replacements.
Pros
- Windproof and 100% waterproof structure (and UV protection)
- Easy to assemble (took 2 of us 3 hours)
- High quality German engineering
- Beautiful anthracite finish
Cons
- We tried and can’t fault it
Conclusion:
It was a breath of fresh air having the pre-drilled holes which made anchoring a lot easier. However, it took 2 of us 3 hours to do this. The instructions were easy to follow (thanks Toolport).
Listen, we really liked this one, that’s why it’s on our list as the best premium option. It’s an attractive addition to any garden.
While this would withstand British storms, please make sure you follow our guide on how to strengthen your gazebo.
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Wrap Up & Discussion
We hope our guide has helped you make an informed purchase of a poly gazebo. If you’re on a shoestring budget, there’s also cheap gazebos to consider.
Now we’d like to turn it over to you:
What was your favourite gazebo from this guide?
Or maybe you have an excellent piece of content that you think we should add.
Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below right now.
