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Cantilever Umbrella Guide

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A cantilever umbrella uses a special adjustable frame to provide shading to a particular area.

These umbrellas are different from standard varieties in that the stand is “offset” away from the shaded area. This allows furniture to be set up under the shade without the mount or frame getting in the way.

These umbrellas can even shade portions of a pool when placed at the deck edge. Durable fabric makes up the canopy of the umbrella to provide protection from the harmful UV sunlight.

Some models have wheels on the base which allow them to be moved around the yard with minimal effort. Cantilever umbrellas are also known as offset umbrellas in the industry.

Choosing the right umbrella is easier when you know what features are available

Cantilever Umbrella

Cantilever Functionality

They are called cantilever umbrellas for one reason- they have a special frame and base which suspends the umbrella over a given area.

Because the base is positioned off to the side, the shaded area underneath the canopy is free of obstruction. This allows users to take full advantage of their umbrella shade. Outdoor furniture such as tables and chairs can be set up in any pattern desired.

The lever at the rear allows for instant height adjustment. In addition to the adjustment of height, some models have the ability to tip their canopies at an angle, adjusting to the sun during the day.

Umbrella Base

Many umbrellas do not come with a base, making it important to choose the right one. First, look at the hole diameter on the base to make sure it is the same diameter as your umbrella’s pole.

Metal bases are quite heavy but come in many decorative designs and colors. The color is actually a protective paint which prevents rust from forming. Cast iron bases do not require this coating, resulting in a more natural look.

Plastic bases get filled by the user with water or sand to make them heavy. The convenience of a plastic base is that they can be emptied for storage or transport.

If you plan on using the cantilever umbrella in different parts of the yard, get a base with wheels to make it easy to move.

Cover Shape

for many potential umbrella buyers, the shape of the umbrella cover is quite important. Circular umbrellas work well in the middle of a patio or yard. They do well with a circular table or sitting area underneath. However, for square tables, a rectangular cantilever patio umbrella might be better suited. Rectangular umbrellas have flat edges which can be placed right up against a wall or gate. They are also better suited for square table sets.

Cantilever Patio Umbrella Buyer’s Guide

What is a cantilever patio umbrella?

These outdoor umbrellas are designed to shade an area of a yard. They are referred to as “cantilever” because of the way the frame is designed.

Unlike regular outdoor umbrellas, cantilever ones hold the canopy over the shaded area.

The stand’s base sits somewhere off to the side out of the way.

This allows users to put furniture underneath the umbrella without the base getting in the way.

This overhang design can cover pools, barbecues, dining areas, and patios in a non-obtrusive way. The canopy tops are usually square in shape and can fold up when not in use.

Some extra features include gazebo-style mesh walls.

Cantilever Technology

Cantilever patio umbrellas are equipped with a special type of frame which can be adjusted up or down. The crane-like design of the frame suspends the umbrella shade over one’s head, leaving the area below free.

The base which holds the umbrella up is often filled with sand or water to weigh it down. Higher-end models have a feature called “auto tilt’. With this function, users can turn a handle to open the umbrella.

Once open, users continue cranking until the umbrella starts to tilt.

The canopy can then be rotated around in the tilted position to adjust to the sun’s changing angle.

Why Square?

A square is a natural shape to cover most backyard gathering areas. Most patio furniture sets including tables and chairs have straight edges, so wouldn’t it make sense to have a flat-edged shade too?

In the confines of the square-shaped shady area cast by the umbrella, furniture can be fit easily inside. A square umbrella fits up against a flat wall or fence perfectly.

Gazebo Enclosures

If you have concerns about flying bugs, consider using a mesh wall attachment with your cantilever umbrella. These walls are made of fine mesh that does not allow flying bugs to pass through.

To install, simply drape the enclosure over the top of the umbrella. The walls will fall down over the sides.

Entry is provided through a zippered or roll-up door. Furniture can be set up inside just as usual with the added bonus of being bug-free.

The mesh walls have the added benefit of providing extra shade during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is in extreme angles.

Umbrella Night Life

These days umbrellas aren’t just for daytime use. Some companies make cantilever umbrellas with LED lights installed on the underside. Users can turn the lights on at night and enjoy the outdoors under their umbrella.

With a gazebo cover and lights, a cantilever patio umbrella becomes a secure and functional outdoor living environment.

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