Cantilever vs Offset Umbrella: The Difference

One of the most important parts of any patio area is the umbrella, which will be a focal point that brings people together to have conversations and relax in the sun. With so many patio umbrellas on sale, it can be hard to differentiate one from another. 

Here we explain the differences between cantilever and offset umbrellas, and how they can help keep your cool. 

What is the difference between cantilever and offset patio umbrella? 

First, let’s look at offset umbrellas. These umbrellas are designed to provide shade and they do as they are being position with an offset base (thus, the name). An offset patio umbrella has a base that is tilted from the center of the umbrella so that it doesn’t take up much space on your patio or deck when it isn’t in use.  

There is also a crank-style pole that allows you to tilt the umbrella to different angles depending on your needs. Offset patio umbrellas are great for providing shade over a long period of time. They are not, however, well-suited for windy areas because of their narrow bases and large surface area. As a result, these umbrellas can blow over easily in windy conditions and cause damage to your patio furniture and other items outdoors.  

Cantilever umbrellas, on the other hand, are designed with a sturdy base and a pole that is slightly curved as it reaches the top. This design helps them provide shade while sitting securely on your patio or deck without blowing over due to strong winds. The curved pole also allows you to position your umbrella at different angles depending on how much shade you need at any given time. 

Pros and cons of Cantilever Umbrella 

Pros 

Longer Lifespan  

Cantilever canopies are a great investment for your home. They are long lasting and come in many styles. The reason that these canopies have longer lifespans is because they can be folded, rolled or wound up in the winter months.  

This helps to protect them from the harsh winter elements. Cantilever canopies are also easily removed from the elements. This makes it easier to store them when they are not needed. Another reason that these canopies last so long is because they make use of the latest in technology and design.  

They come in a variety of styles with different sun protection abilities. These canopies are also very easy to use and make it possible for you to enjoy your deck year round. 

Allows You to Use the Canopy Only When Needed  

You don’t need to keep this type of umbrella open all of the time because you can pull the canopy over in bad weather without having to remove it from where you have it placed. The canopy provides protection from wind and rain as you come and go from your patio or deck area.  

Because there is no mechanism on a cantilever umbrella that opens and closes, it has no moving parts to break down, which means less maintenance. This type of umbrella is also made with quality material such as steel so the frame won’t rust or corrode, and there are a variety of colors available. 

Cons 

One of the disadvantages of a cantilever umbrella is that it can be harder to open and close than an offset umbrella stand. 

If you are using a cantilever umbrella, then you will have to manually pull the umbrella in and out of the stand. In some instances, this can lead to your umbrella becoming damaged. In order for your umbrella to last for a long time, then you will need to take care of the moving mechanism on the stand.  

If not, then you could end up with problems down the road, such as your umbrella breaking apart while it is raining. 

Pros and cons of Offset Patio Umbrella 

If you see yourself spending a lot of time in your patio, you may want to consider buying an offset patio umbrella. You can simply put up this umbrella as a replacement for your old or damaged one. Aside from that, it also provides a stylish addition to your yard. If you want to know the pros and cons of this umbrella, read on!  

Pros  

This is a relatively inexpensive item because of the materials used in its making and the simple assembly instructions. It is easy to put together and comes with an umbrella stand. It is durable, attractive and attractive to the eye. The fabric used in its construction is waterproof and preventing water from penetrating inside it. The umbrella itself can withstand strong winds so you should never worry about it flying away or getting damaged by wind gusts.  

Cons  

It is expensive because of the quality materials used in its construction but with proper care, it will last for years without any issues at all. There are other types of umbrellas available but they are less durable than this type due to their lightweight materials used in their construction. You might have to handle this umbrella with care or else it might break easily when left outside for a long time unprotected from the elements. 

Which is better offset or cantilever patio umbrella? 

Offset patio umbrellas are one of the most popular types of umbrellas you can find. They have a base that is attached to the patio surface, and the umbrella pole attaches to the base at an offset angle. This creates a shaded area below the umbrella. Cantilever patio umbrellas are similar to offset patio umbrellas, but they don’t have a base. The patio umbrella pole extends out from the side of the patio, and provides shade over an area above.  

Both patio umbrella styles provide shade for your outdoor living area, but each type has advantages and disadvantages you should consider before deciding which one is best for you. First, let’s take a look at how offset and cantilever patio umbrellas work.  

Offset Patio Umbrella  

As mentioned above, offset patio umbrellas have a base that attaches to your deck or patio surface, and a pole that attaches to the base at an offset angle. This creates shade beneath the umbrella in an area toward one side of the umbrella.  

Cantilever Patio Umbrella  

The main difference with this type of umbrella is there is no base to attach it to your deck or patio surface. The pole extends out from the side of your deck or patio and makes contact with a table, chairs or other objects around it. The umbrella is generally less expensive than offset umbrellas. However, these umbrellas are best under conditions where there will be no wind because they are rather top heavy and can easily tip over in high wind conditions if they are not attached to a table or stand. 

Conclusion 

Cantilever Patio Umbrellas and Offset Patio Umbrellas are both the best selling types of outdoor umbrellas in the market today, but they are actually quite different. Cantilever Patio Umbrellas are interesting in that they work as a system of multiple parts.  

The crossbar is what attaches to your patio railing and the arm is attached to it which holds the cantilever umbrella. Offset Patios style Umbrellas, however, have been popular for years because of their increase stability due to the base and center pole directly attached together. They provide greater coverage for outdoor patios compared to cantilever patio umbrellas.  

The offset design allows it to disperse rain water more effectively so no matter what kind of outdoor furniture you have on your patio, your table will always be protected from the elements. These umbrellas come in a variety of sizes and colors and these features add to their versatility which makes them functional regardless if they’re being used on an indoor or outdoor setting.