Cantilever umbrellas have become quite popular over the past few years and with good reason. Of course, this is not to discount the uses of the standard outdoor patio umbrella that fits into the center of an outdoor dining table. But, with a cantilever umbrella the options are almost infinite.
As shown in the picture above, the umbrella is set up so that two lounge chairs may be places side by side without the interruption of the the umbrella shaft. Instead, the cantilever umbrella allows the dome of the unit to define the outdoor room, providing shade from the sun’s harsh rays.
While the standard center shaft umbrella is still most often seen shading the outdoor dining table, as shown above, the cantilever can provide shade in ways a standard center shaft umbrella cannot. An advantage of the cantilever outdoor umbrella over the standard center shaft umbrella is that the cantilever can be moved as well as tilted to offer greater protection from the sun’s direct rays. We have all sat around a table and tilted the standard outdoor umbrella to provide shade only to discover that the dome was too close to protect the entire table from the sunlight and often when one stands up, the head can be bumped.
With the cantilever umbrella, the base is often easily moved, creating a larger shadowing effect. Additionally, while providing the much needed shade, the dome is not so close as to interefere with guests rising from the table.
Another distinct advantage of the cantilever umbrella is the variety of shapes. While most standard center shaft umbrellas are still round. the cantilever is easily found in shapes other than the perfect circular style. As shown above, the square umbrella not only provides the needed shade, it also provides a style that is incomparable.
All in all, there are times and setting when the standard umbrella is appropriate. However, when you want to show your style with a modern design, the cantilever umbrella is the outdoor umbrella to select.