The Cantilever Umbrella: What Is It and How Is It Used?

Cantilever umbrellas are becoming increasingly popular, as they provide reliable coverage and protection from the sun without taking up too much space. These offset patio umbrellas have several advantages over traditional outdoor umbrellas. Below, we discuss what a cantilever umbrella is, how it is used, and the many benefits it provides. We also share some information about Shelter Outdoor’s new Parashade model: a portable, windproof patio umbrella with an optional tilt and user-friendly opening and closing mechanism.

What Is a Cantilever Umbrella?

A cantilever umbrella is a type of offset patio umbrella that is designed with a cantilevered structure. This means that it is supported by an arched frame that extends over the shaded area, rather than by a central pole or base.

You can find cantilever umbrellas in outdoor spaces, both in residential and commercial settings. Many homeowners use these fixtures on their patios or yards, where they can dine and entertain al fresco without having to worry about the sun or rain. They are also used in hospitality settings like restaurants, cafes, hotels, and swimming pools.

 

Benefits of Outdoor Cantilever Umbrellas

Portability and Coverage

There are many benefits of outdoor cantilever umbrellas. Due to their offset design, they provide more flexibility in terms of placement: They can be positioned and adjusted without the need for a fixed location. For extra portability and easy repositioning, models with a mobile cantilever umbrella base or stand are ideal. One of the best options available in the market today is the Parashade cantilever umbrella. This revolutionary mobile patio umbrella features a stainless steel base with wheels.

Because these umbrellas are offset from the base (unlike single-pole umbrellas), they are also ideal for covering large areas of your patio or other outdoor area. Dual-canopy umbrella models like the P6 Round Duo and P6 Square Duo feature two canopies offset from the main support – thereby doubling the amount of shade. For even more coverage, you can opt for the P6 Square Trio or P6 Square Quattro umbrella: These extra large cantilever umbrella models combine three or four canopies onto a single pole, respectively – providing up to 400 square feet of shade.

Heavy-Duty Fabric

Most cantilever umbrellas are constructed with sturdy fabric for optimal protection and durability. The canopy of a cantilever umbrella is typically made from acrylic, polyester, or vinyl – all of which provide protection from the sun’s harmful rays.

At Shelter Outdoor, our cantilever umbrellas feature heavy-duty acrylic canopies that are resistant to fading, mildew, and stains. This durable fabric is also waterproof and UV-resistant. As a bonus, the fabric can be washed and replaced for easy maintenance.

Sturdy Frames

As with the canopies, the frames of cantilever umbrellas are also generally very sturdy. Many models are constructed with stainless steel or aluminum frames. Shelter Outdoor cantilever umbrellas also feature a powder-coated aluminum finish for rust resistance and extra weatherproofing.

One of the best things about these outdoor umbrellas is that they are windproof. P6 cantilever umbrellas are built to withstand winds of up to 27 MPH, while the Parashade model features robust gust-busting arms for endurance during similar high wind situations.

At Shelter Outdoor, we offer a limited five-year warranty on our cantilever umbrella fabrics as well as frames.

Easy Opening and Closing

Unlike pole umbrellas with fixed canopies that remain open at all times, most cantilever umbrellas allow for the canopies to open and close. Shelter Outdoor’s patented One-Move™ gas spring mechanism makes opening and closing these umbrellas quick and easy. For your convenience, we also offer rotating umbrellas like the P7 Ground-Anchored Uno and P7 Wall-Mounted Uno. These models can be rotated up to 300 degrees to ensure coverage and protection where you need it the most.

The Parashade cantilever umbrella goes a step further with its parallel motion opening: Simply grab a section of the canopy, walk around the base, and secure to open or close the umbrella at any time.

Tilted Positioning

In addition to their natural offset design, some cantilever umbrellas also feature an optional tiling mechanism. For example, the P4 single-canopy cantilever umbrella pivots and tilts by up to 10 degrees. It also features a telescopic arm that can swing horizontally, vertically, or at a 45-degree angle.

One of the most robust and versatile patio umbrellas on the market is the Parashade 10-foot cantilever umbrella. This model features an optional multi-angle tilt functionality to create customized shading that’s just right for you.

Variety of Colors, Sizes, and Shapes

When it comes to cantilever umbrellas, you can choose from a wide range of colors to complement your outdoor space. Shelter Outdoor cantilever umbrellas are available in many color options, from neutral grays and whites to bold yellows and oranges. We also offer custom colors upon request.

Outdoor cantilever umbrellas average around 8’ x 8’ in size. At Shelter Outdoor, you can choose from a variety of canopy sizes ranging from 7’ to 11.5’ to accommodate your outdoor space. Cantilever umbrella bases typically run 35” – 40” in diameter.

You can also find cantilever umbrellas in several different shapes, including round (octagonal) and square. Configurations include single-pole, dual-pole, triple-pole, and quadruple-pole. Many of these are also available in freestanding, wall-mounted, and inground attachment styles.

Additional Features

Some cantilever umbrellas come with additional features such as heating and lighting. This makes them ideal for use at night and during cooler months, when they can provide much needed warmth and illumination for your outdoor living space.

Other optional features include protective covers, zipped rain gutters, casters, extended height poles, battery kits, and sockets.

At Shelter Outdoor, we offer all of these options and more. Depending on the type of attachment you choose, your umbrella will also come with mounting hardware and other accessories like steel bases, base covers, floor plates, ground anchors, and wall brackets.

 

The Parashade: One of the Best Cantilever Umbrellas Available

For a robust and versatile solution, check out our new Parashade cantilever umbrella. Featuring a beautiful, minimalist design, this easy-to-use umbrella provides a lifetime of shade backed by a manufacturer’s guarantee. The windproof Parashade features tilt and gust-buster arms, parallel motion opening, and a mobile stainless steel base with casters. Select from a 10’ or 7’ square canopy.

 

Consider a Cantilever Patio Umbrella for Your Outdoor Space

A cantilever umbrella is a convenient option for providing shade and protection in your outdoor space. With a wide range of styles, sizes, and features, Shelter Outdoor makes it easy to find a model that fits your needs and complements your décor.

 

Need help finding the right solution for your outdoor space? Contact us here or call us at 855-768-4450 – we’d be happy to help!