A cabana is a great way to boost the wow factor of your backyard
When building a cabana, first determine your budget and timeline.
Come up with a design and determine where to put it.
The first step in construction is building the frame.
Then you'll want to install the roof and lay the flooring.
Finally, add optional pool house features to complete the project.
The cabana is a great idea for your backyard pool. It’s the ultimate place to gather friends and family, especially when you’re entertaining. If you’re interested in building a cabana, there are several things to consider before getting started. Cabanas come in all shapes and sizes, but they all share some common features, such as sturdy posts and beams, durable roofing, and comfortable furniture for lounging around in the sun.
Here are some basic tips for building your own cabana that will be the envy of everyone at your next party.
The first step for a project like this is to determine a budget and timeline. Expect it to take three to seven days to build a cabana, although it may take longer depending on the weather and your general construction skills, as well as the availability of necessary tools and materials.
You should budget between $3,000 and $9,000 for this project. You’ll need to buy materials such as tile, roofing, and lumber, and you may need to hire a professional to get the job done.
Designing a cabana is easier than designing a pool house because you won't need the full utility hook-ups like the latter requires—it's just a shelter near your pool. You'll need to decide which of the following designs you'll want for your cabana:
Traditional: A typical cabana has three walls and the remaining side is completely open. This side usually is the one closest to the pool.
Gazebo-style: This cabana resembles a gazebo, meaning it's a little bit smaller than other styles and has more angles than a rectangular cabana.
One-sided: This cabana only has a back wall, and the rest of the roof is supported by pillars. This gives the cabana a very open feel compared to other styles.
Miniature cabana: This small version of a cabana is usually open all around and use curtains for privacy.
While your cabana should be placed as close to your pool as possible, its location also depends on what else is surrounding it. Is there a lawn that can accentuate it? Are there trees you can drape with lights? A space for a barbecue?
Also take into account how many people you typically entertain and whether the space you’ve chosen will have enough room for them. Before building your pool cabana, draw up an outline of where it will fit into your yard and take note of anything that may need special attention.
The frame of your cabana will be one of its most essential parts, so take care in laying it out and making sure it’s secure.
One option is to use two four-by-four posts with concrete piers to anchor each corner. Then, attach pressure-treated plywood to cover your posts. Or, consider nailing together wood boards into vertical support beams for an A-frame that provides sturdiness and ample overhead space for guests.
If you feel like you may be out of your depth here, consider contacting an awning professional near you to get a quote for how much it would be to have a pro do this job.
The roof is one of the most important aspects of any building—and it’s certainly critical when building a cabana. Your cabana roof will be exposed to all kinds of weather, so you want it to be built as sturdily as possible. The best roofs are made from heavy-duty materials like corrugated metal or concrete tiles.
You’ll want to put down flooring once the structure is done. An outdoor patio tile is a good option, but you might also go with wood deck tiles depending on the style of cabana you've chosen. Vinyl flooring, stone tiles, and non-slip carpeting are all also viable options.
In addition to having different types of seats, you should also have different options for shade and shelter from rain or other elements. Landscaping is a great option, too, if you want to make your cabana more aesthetically appealing. If there are no laws against it where you live, consider adding a built-in water slide and wave maker near your cabana. And don’t forget a grill for poolside barbecues!
