Outdoor gazebos and other shade structures have become increasingly popular for a number of reasons. However, these structures are considered a major investment whether in a park or residential setting, so it important to take care when maintaining any permanent structures.

Maintenance of a wrought iron gazebo may require a polyurethane spray annually but check with your local dealer before beginning any treatment.

Clean the gutters of any shelter every 12 months or more frequently for heavy leaf drop or pine needle areas. If a structure is near lawn sprinklers, adjust the sprinkler heads monthly so they are not spraying directly on the structure, as this can cause undue weathering and staining, not to mention rust and mildew forming on the frame.

In high humidity areas, a light solution of bleach wiper on a pre-selected area can clean moss off of a steel shelter and mold from the frame. On vinyl material, a mild cleanser or a mixture of soap and water will also suffice. If the top of the roof or trim finish is damaged and cannot be easily repaired using touch up paint, it is best to replace the damage roof panel of trim. Using high quality industrial enamel paint available from any paint or hardware store may touch up the bottom steel of the roof of steel structures.

Footings need to be checked on any structure to ensure the foundation is secure; check for sinking or earth washing away from the footing, which could cause the structure to tip or lean.

The major maintenance to any steel shelter is frame finish, and the major reason frame finish might fail is due to vandalism. However, wood shelters can be cut or burned, while steel shelters may have chipping cracks or abrasion to the frame finish, in either case repair may be necessary.