When it comes to outdoor living, having an umbrella is a must-have. Not only does it provide shade and protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, but it also adds a touch of elegance to your patio furniture. However, with so many different types of umbrellas available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. Two popular types of outdoor umbrellas are market umbrellas and cantilever umbrellas. In this article, we’ll compare market umbrellas vs. cantilever umbrellas to help you decide the best umbrella option for you
Market Umbrella
A market umbrella is the most common type of outdoor umbrella. It typically has a round or square canopy supported by a straight pole in the center. The canopy is held up by a series of ribs attached to the top of the umbrella pole. Market umbrellas are usually designed to sit in the center of a table, and the pole is placed in the table’s umbrella hole. They are also available in freestanding models that can be used independently.
Umbrella Frame
The frame of a market umbrella is usually made of wood or aluminum. Wooden frames are sturdy and add a touch of elegance to the outdoor space.
However, they are more susceptible to rot and may require more maintenance. Aluminum frames are lightweight, durable, and rust-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use.
Umbrella Pole
The pole of a market umbrella is typically straight and located in the center of the canopy. The pole can be made of wood or aluminum. Aluminum poles are lightweight, rust-resistant, and durable. Wooden poles are sturdy and add a touch of elegance to the outdoor space, but they require more maintenance than aluminum poles.
Umbrella Base
The base of a market umbrella is usually made of concrete or plastic. The base needs to be heavy enough to support the umbrella’s weight and prevent it from tipping over. Some models come with a built-in base, while others require a separate base that can be filled with sand or water.
Sunbrella
Sunbrella is a type of outdoor fabric commonly used for the canopy of market umbrellas. It is durable, fade-resistant, and provides excellent UV protection. Sunbrella comes in various colors and patterns, making it easy to match with your patio furniture.
Cantilever Umbrella
A cantilever umbrella, also known as an offset patio umbrella, has a canopy supported by a pole located to the side of the umbrella. The pole is attached to a frame that is anchored to the ground. The canopy is held up by a series of ribs attached to the top of the umbrella pole.
Type of Umbrella
Cantilever umbrellas are available in square, rectangular, and round canopies. The shape of the canopy depends on the model of the umbrella.
Umbrella Frame
The frame of a cantilever umbrella is usually made of aluminum or steel. Aluminum frames are lightweight, rust-resistant, and durable. Steel frames are heavier than aluminum frames but are also durable and sturdy.
Umbrella Pole
The pole of a cantilever umbrella is located to the side of the canopy. The pole is usually made of aluminum or steel and is anchored to the ground with a weighted base.
Umbrella Base
The base of a cantilever umbrella is usually made of concrete or plastic. The base needs to be heavy enough to support the umbrella’s weight and prevent it from tipping over. Some models come with a built-in base, while others require a separate base that can be filled with sand or water.
Sunbrella
Sunbrella is a type of outdoor fabric commonly used for the canopy of cantilever umbrellas. It is durable, fade-resistant, and provides excellent UV protection. Sunbrella comes in various colors and patterns, making it easy to match with your patio furniture.
Market Umbrella vs Cantilever: Comparison
Now that we have a good understanding of market umbrellas and cantilever umbrellas let’s compare them to see which one is the best option for your patio.
Coverage
One of the main differences between market umbrellas and cantilever umbrellas is the coverage they provide. Market umbrellas have a straight pole in the center of the canopy, which means they are limited in their coverage area. On the other hand, Cantilever umbrellas have a side pole, allowing them to provide more coverage and flexibility.
Adjustability
Cantilever umbrellas are more adjustable than market umbrellas. The side pole of a cantilever umbrella allows the canopy to be tilted and rotated, providing shade no matter where the sun is in the sky. On the other hand, market umbrellas have a fixed canopy that cannot be adjusted.
Stability
Both market and cantilever umbrellas require a stable base to prevent them from tipping over in windy conditions. However, cantilever umbrellas tend to be more stable than market umbrellas because the base is located to the side of the canopy, which creates a more stable center of gravity.
Aesthetics
Market umbrellas are a classic and traditional style that looks great with any patio furniture. On the other hand, Cantilever umbrellas have a more modern and contemporary look that may not be suitable for all types of outdoor spaces.
Price
Regarding price, market umbrellas tend to be more affordable than cantilever umbrellas. Cantilever umbrellas require a more complex frame and base design, which makes them more expensive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both market and cantilever umbrellas have advantages and disadvantages. Market umbrellas are a classic and affordable option that provides good coverage, while cantilever umbrellas are more modern and adjustable with better stability. Ultimately, the decision between the two types of umbrellas will depend on your personal preferences and your outdoor space needs. Consider the coverage area, adjustability, stability, aesthetics, and price when choosing between market and cantilever umbrellas. Whatever type of umbrella you choose, be sure to select a high-quality model that is durable and made with quality materials.
