Thinking about changing your backyard into a stunning, functional retreat? Cedar pavilion kits might be the perfect centerpiece, offering timeless beauty and a rewarding project for homeowners and builders alike. With Utah Deck Supply, you can create an outdoor oasis that blends natural elegance with straightforward construction.
Why Cedar Pavilion Kits Are the Smart Choice for Utah Backyards
Cedar pavilion kits offer a straightforward way to add a stunning, functional structure to any backyard without the complexity of a custom build. These pre-cut, ready-to-assemble kits combine the natural beauty of Western Red Cedar with the convenience of modern engineering, making them an ideal choice for creating a lasting outdoor living space.
Quick Answer: What to Know About Cedar Pavilion Kits
- Material: Western Red Cedar (naturally rot-resistant)
- Price Range: $4,500–$20,000+
- Popular Sizes: 10’x10′ to 20’x40′, with 12’x16′ being the most common
- Assembly: Pre-cut, pre-drilled kits; 1–2 days with 2–4 people
- Lifespan: 20+ years with basic care
- Customization: Roofs, posts, stains, electrical, and more
A cedar pavilion is more than just shade—it’s a defined outdoor room that instantly lifts your property. Here’s the thing: not all outdoor structures are created equal. Cedar stands out because it naturally resists rot, insects, and harsh weather. Its rich grain and warm tones create a timeless aesthetic, and unlike vinyl or aluminum, cedar ages gracefully, developing a beautiful silver-gray patina if left unstained.
For contractors, cedar pavilion kits mean predictable pricing and fast project turnarounds. For DIY homeowners, they offer a manageable project that doesn’t require advanced carpentry skills—just basic tools and a weekend of focused work.
I’m James Bonham, co-founder of Utah Deck Supply. With years of experience in the outdoor living industry, I’ve seen how quality materials and expert guidance make all the difference. My goal is to help you turn your backyard vision into a reality that stands the test of time.
Why a Cedar Pavilion is the Ultimate Backyard Upgrade
A pavilion isn’t just a structure; it’s an investment in your lifestyle and property. It creates a defined space for hosting social gatherings, family dinners, or simply relaxing in the shade. Honestly, choosing cedar takes that investment to the next level, offering benefits that other materials just can’t match.
The Natural Advantage: Benefits of Cedar vs. Other Materials
When it comes to outdoor structures, the material choice is paramount. We believe Western Red Cedar stands in a league of its own, offering a blend of beauty, durability, and natural resistance that other options can’t replicate without extensive treatment.
- Natural Beauty: Cedar offers rich, warm tones, a distinctive grain, and a pleasant aroma, bringing natural elegance to any backyard.
- Inherent Durability: Cedar contains natural oils that make it resistant to rot, decay, and insects without needing harsh chemical treatments. This ensures your pavilion maintains its structural integrity for years. You can read more about the benefits of cedar decking for your outdoor space.
- Proven Longevity: Cedar is a robust material proven to endure Utah’s diverse weather, from hot summers to snowy winters, without warping or cracking. This durability ensures your investment provides lasting enjoyment for decades.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Whether you stain it to preserve its original hue or let it weather to a beautiful silver-gray patina, cedar ages gracefully, ensuring your pavilion always looks distinguished.
- Increased Property Value: A well-designed cedar pavilion significantly improves curb appeal and can boost your home’s resale value, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers.
Let’s compare cedar to another common material: pressure-treated wood.
| Feature | Cedar | Pressure-Treated Wood |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Natural, warm tones, distinct grain | Often has a greenish tint, less natural appearance |
| Durability | Naturally resistant to rot, decay, insects; long lifespan | Chemically treated to resist rot/insects; treatment can fade |
| Maintenance | Low; can be stained/sealed or left to weather | Requires regular sealing to maintain protection and appearance |
| Lifespan | 20+ years, often much longer | 10-15 years, depending on treatment and environment |
| Cost | Mid to high-range | Lower to mid-range |
| Safety | Natural, non-toxic | Chemicals used in treatment can be a concern for some |
While pressure-treated wood is more budget-friendly, the natural beauty, longevity, and low maintenance of cedar make it the preferred choice for a premium outdoor living space. For a deeper dive into material choices, check out our guide on composite vs wood decks, which is right for you.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Cedar Pavilion Kits
Ready to explore your options? The great thing about kits is that they simplify the process, but there are still a few key decisions to make. Let me explain the most important factors to ensure you select the perfect pavilion for your space and budget.
Finding Your Fit: Decoding Pavilion Sizes and Styles
The first step is to envision how you’ll use the space. This will help determine the right size and style to complement your home and lifestyle.
Common Sizes: Kits range from compact 10’x10′ designs to expansive custom models. The most popular size is 12’x16′, which provides ample space for dining or a lounge area. Always check the detailed specifications, as measurements are often based on post center dimensions.
Measuring Your Yard: Before you buy, grab a tape measure! Mark out the desired footprint, allowing for clearance around pathways and landscaping. Use stakes and string to visualize the pavilion’s scale in your yard. For more sizing tips, our pergola kits 10×12 guide offers relevant insights.
Roof Styles: The roof is a defining feature. Popular options include:
- Hip Roof: A classic, symmetrical look with all sides sloping down for excellent weather protection.
- A-Frame (Gable) Roof: A traditional, rustic style with two sloping sides meeting at a ridge.
- Modern & Specialty Styles: Options like Pagoda, Bellavue, and Hampton pavilions offer unique architectural designs from Asian-inspired to sleek and contemporary.
Timber Frame Design: Many cedar pavilion kits use traditional timber frame joinery, like dovetail joints, for exceptional strength and a classic look. You can explore various wooden pavilion options on our site.
Making It Yours: Customization and Cost
This is where you can truly personalize your outdoor structure. You know what? It also plays a big role in the final cost.
Cost Range: A cedar pavilion kit can range from around $4,500 for a smaller model to over $20,000 for larger, more elaborate designs. The average customer spends around $7,600 for a popular 12’x16′ size. Premium options like the Rough Sawn Cedar Crown Pavilion can start upwards of $41,000.
Roofing Materials: Choose from cost-effective asphalt shingles, durable metal panels, or natural cedar shakes to match your aesthetic and budget.
Post Styles: Standard posts are typically 5″x5″ or 8″x8″, with upgrades available to larger sizes or decorative tapered columns for a grander statement. Taller posts can also be ordered for more headroom.
Electrical Packages: Add functionality with optional pre-wired packages for lighting and ceiling fans, typically ranging from $225 to $450.
Stain Options: While cedar can be left to weather naturally, a stain protects the wood and improves its color. Choose from a wide array of tones to match your home’s exterior. Our custom pergola kits offer similar options for a cohesive look.
From Box to Backyard: Assembly, Maintenance, and Next Steps
You’ve picked the style, size, and features—now for the fun part! Bringing your pavilion to life is a rewarding process. Here’s the thing: a little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth build and a structure that lasts for decades.
The Assembly Blueprint: DIY vs. Professional Installation for your Cedar Pavilion Kits
One of the greatest advantages of cedar pavilion kits is the simplified assembly. These kits are designed to make building accessible, even if you’re not a master carpenter.
Ready-to-Assemble Kits: Kits arrive with every piece of lumber pre-cut and often pre-drilled. This eliminates complex measuring and cutting, saving time and preventing errors. It takes the guesswork out of alignment and makes assembly much more straightforward.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Every kit includes a comprehensive assembly manual. We recommend reviewing it before your kit arrives to familiarize yourself with the process and required tools (drill, level, tape measure, etc.).
Foundation Preparation: A solid, level foundation is crucial. Common options include:
- Compacted Gravel: A popular and accessible choice for a stable base.
- Patio Stones: A visually appealing option if the ground is level and stable.
- Concrete Footings: Recommended for larger structures to provide secure anchoring below the frost line.
- Concrete Slab: The strongest method, offering maximum stability and preventing any shifting over time.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: Many customers assemble their kits themselves. A standard kit can often be built in a day with two people, while larger kits may take two days with a small team. If you’re short on time or prefer an expert touch, hiring a local contractor is an excellent option. Our DIY vs professional deck installation guide offers helpful insights.
Ensuring Longevity: Pavilion Maintenance and Finding a Supplier
Once your pavilion is up, a little care will keep it beautiful for decades. Finding the right supplier is just as important as the kit itself.
Expected Lifespan: With its natural resistance to decay, a well-maintained cedar pavilion can easily last 20 years or more.
Staining and Sealing: Applying a quality stain or sealant protects the wood from UV rays and moisture, helping to maintain its color and extend its life.
Simple Cleaning: An annual cleaning with mild soap and water is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and mildew. Avoid high-pressure washers, which can damage the wood. For more tips, check out our ultimate guide to deck maintenance.
Choose a Reputable Supplier: Where you buy your cedar pavilion kit matters. At Utah Deck Supply, we are Utah’s “Deck Super Store,” dedicated to providing better expertise, materials, and support than big-box stores.
- Expert Guidance: Our team offers in-person guidance on materials, codes, and installation best practices specific to Utah’s climate.
- Quality & Convenience: We supply complete, high-quality pavilion kits and maintain a deep inventory. With showrooms in Provo, Salt Lake City, and other key Utah locations, you can see products hands-on.
- Delivery and Support: We ensure you have all the information needed for a smooth delivery and are here to support you every step of the way.
Conclusion: Create Your Perfect Outdoor Oasis
A cedar pavilion kit is more than a project; it’s a permanent upgrade that adds beauty, function, and value to your home. By choosing the right style and planning your assembly, you can create a stunning outdoor oasis your family will enjoy for years. Ready to take the next step? Explore our high-quality pavilion kits to find the perfect fit for your backyard!
