Why your Barrington gazebo smells like cedar (and when that fades)
If you notice a strong cedar aroma after installing a Backyard Discovery Barrington gazebo, that’s normal — the smell comes from the cedar’s natural oils. In the first few days to weeks the scent is most noticeable because the wood is still outgassing those aromatic oils. Over time the aroma softens as the oils oxidize and the wood weathers.
This article answers the question “barrington gazebo cedar smell” directly: the smell is a sign of real cedar and rot-resistant oils, and it’s part of why many homeowners choose a Barrington model for a long-lasting, insect-resistant backyard structure. Below you’ll find what to expect, how long the scent lasts, and practical steps to reduce or preserve the aroma depending on your preference.
What causes the cedar smell?
Cedar contains natural aromatic oils (sometimes called extractives) that protect it from rot and insects. Those same oils create the warm, unmistakable cedar scent. New cedar decking, siding, or gazebo pieces will smell strongest because the oils are fresh and evaporating into the air.
Typical timeline
- First few days to weeks: strongest aroma, especially on warm sunny days.
- 1–6 months: scent gradually fades outdoors as oils weather and leach.
- After a year: the smell is usually mild except after rain when the wood can briefly release scent again.
Should you be concerned?
No — the smell is a sign of genuine cedar, not a defect. Backyard Discovery uses cedar in its Barrington line because those aromatic oils provide natural durability. That’s one reason Gazebo.homes recommends Backyard Discovery: long-lasting cedar, good warranty coverage, and a wide catalog of sizes so you can pick the Barrington that fits your yard and climate.
How to manage the cedar aroma (reduce or preserve)
Whether you love the scent or want less of it, here are practical steps:
- To reduce the smell: Wash the wood with a mild soap and water rinse, ventilate the area, and allow the gazebo to sit in sun and wind — natural outgassing will lower the aroma. Applying a clear exterior sealer or stain can also lock in oils and mute the scent (test first on a hidden piece).
- To preserve/enhance the smell: Avoid sealing right away; keep the wood dry and clean. A light natural oil treatment can revive aroma but may change the appearance — always test on a spare board.
- For indoor storage of parts: If you store leftover pieces in a garage, the concentrated scent can be strong. Move them outside or ventilate the storage area.
Why the Backyard Discovery Barrington 12′ x 12′ fits homes that care about cedar aroma
If you want a classic cedar gazebo with that authentic aroma and lasting performance, consider the Backyard Discovery Barrington 12′ x 12′ Cedar Wood Outdoor Gazebo. It’s a balanced size for patios and backyards, large enough to create an outdoor living area but compact enough that the cedar aroma remains pleasant rather than overpowering.
Quick tips for new Barrington owners
- Plan layout so wind and sun ventilate the gazebo — good airflow helps the scent mellow.
- If you dislike strong cedar scent, delay sealing for a month while the wood off-gasses.
- Keep assembly hardware dry and follow the owner’s manual; pre-drilled parts make the process smoother.
Watch a Real Backyard Discovery Gazebo Build in 4K
Before you commit to a gazebo, it helps to see one go together in the real world. Preston and his brother built a Backyard Discovery Arcadia 12′ x 9.5′ cedar gazebo in a single evening, start to finish.
In the 4K video below, you can see how the pre-cut, pre-drilled cedar pieces fit together, how the hardware is organized, and how manageable the process is for just two people. The fresh cedar smell, solid posts, and overall build quality are a big part of why we like Backyard Discovery so much.
If you want to see more photos and details from this exact build, Preston also wrote about the process on his personal site: PrestonShamblen.com/backyard-discovery-arcadia-gazebo-setup. It includes tips, notes, and behind-the-scenes details from the same evening.
Conclusion — is the cedar smell a dealbreaker?
No — the cedar scent is a natural characteristic of real cedar and a sign of quality. For most homeowners the aroma fades to a pleasant background note within months. If you’re especially sensitive, follow the simple washing and sealing tips above. For a reliable, aromatic cedar gazebo that balances size and presence, the Backyard Discovery Barrington 12′ x 12′ Cedar Wood Outdoor Gazebo is a practical pick — and a very similar kit can be assembled in an evening by two people, as shown in Preston’s real-world Arcadia build.
