A cabana was originally a sort of hut used by various indigenous people as a temporary shelter, or sometimes a home. They usually had a grass roof thatched to remain waterproof, but a poor guard against high winds, and the walls were usually made of wood and could either be partially open or fully enclosed. Many times these structures were leaned against trees or a hill however they were dissimilar to a lean-to in many regards. These were most often found in tropical climates with mild weather, and could not be used in colder temperatures or where other harsh elements were more dominant. These cabanas were of course the inspiration for the more modern cabanas we think of today during the summer months while lounging next to a pool.

Modern cabanas

Today cabanas are temporary, seasonal structures usually found around swimming pools, lakes and other bodies of water. It is a free standing structure which provides shade, but opens so one can enjoy the outdoors, a pool or the backyard. In some cases a cabana may have curtains or cloth if one prefers more privacy, usually though these are permanently open structures.

Cabanas are by far most commonly used at public or private pools, at hotels and community pools, often even a clubs or nightlife events. Often individuals will pay a premium in these places to reserve a cabana and it may come with other perks like bottle service.

You may also find cabanas in homes however. Adding a cabana to a pool area is becoming more and more popular in residential communities as a fast and relatively inexpensive way to provide a little bit of shade and comfort to their backyard.

How is a cabana different than other outdoor structures?

It is a good question. With so many different options for some outdoor shelter or shade, it’s hard to keep track of what is what. Along with more commonly being seen at pools or other bodies of water, a cabana is usually much more open and less sturdy than say a gazebo or pagoda. Many times a cabana can actually be moved or taken down for the winter months and easily assembled for the summer months.

Though they may in some cases be assembled and disassembled, you may opt for a permanent structure as well. These are most often put together by a professional home designer or contractor, and are far sturdier than the original tropical cabanas we first discussed.

Materials used in construction of a cabana

A cabana may be constructed fro ma wide range of different materials. Usually materials used for a cabana are lightweight and easy to work with. The frame is usually steel or aluminum with a coat of paint or other durable finish. Wood is also common and should be treated. For the walls if applicable and for the roof a range of things can be used, curtain and other fabrics, thatched materials, lumber and even glass. You have quite a few options when you are looking for a cabana for your yard.

Gappsi is your local landscaping, pool and contracting professional service source. We are licensed and certified. To find out more please visit www.gappsi.com.

Luke Clarck presents the finest landscaping, pool and contracting professional service, read more at http://www.gappsi.com

Author Bio: Gappsi is your local landscaping, pool and contracting professional service source. We are licensed and certified. To find out more please visit www.gappsi.com.

Category: Recreation
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