This gazebo provides a good shade and it looks very nice. However, it's not waterproof, so don't expect it to be a good protection from the rain. If the rain is light, it's fine, but if it's pouring, then better go inside. It also collects some water after it's been raining for some time. One more concern with this gazebo is the wind. It doesn't weigh much, so strong wind would easily move it, unless you figure out a way to secure it to the ground. Despite all that, I'm pretty happy with this gazebo, I think it deserves solid 4 stars.