{"id":1420,"date":"2020-03-24T10:01:38","date_gmt":"2020-03-24T10:01:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gardendad.co.uk\/?p=1420"},"modified":"2020-03-24T10:51:37","modified_gmt":"2020-03-24T10:51:37","slug":"best-cantilever-parasol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gardendad.co.uk\/best-cantilever-parasol\/","title":{"rendered":"Which Is The Best Cantilever Parasol [Reviews + Buying Guide]?"},"content":{"rendered":"

A parasol is one of the best additions to your garden especially if you or your family enjoys spending a lot of time outdoors.<\/p>\n

A parasol provides shade from the sun and rain.<\/p>\n

Garden parasols come in different styles.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s the basic upright parasol that you can use on its own or fix to a table. For better shade protection, a tilting parasol is great.<\/p>\n

For this buying guide, we discuss a different variety of parasols \u2013 cantilever parasols. They are relatively modern and arguably look more stylish compared to the other types.<\/p>\n

Cantilever parasols have the pole and base off the side rather than at the centre. The umbrella arches over the table or sitting area.<\/p>\n

This makes the parasol more versatile than other types of parasol. You can set one up anywhere without the pole getting in the way.<\/p>\n

You can set it up over an outdoor Jacuzzi, a hammock<\/a> or a recliner.<\/p>\n

Most cantilever parasols can be swivelled or tilted to adjust the shade.<\/p>\n

Key Considerations When Choosing a Cantilever Parasol<\/h2>\n

a) Size<\/h3>\n

The ideal size depends on how big you want the shade to be.<\/p>\n

Most cantilever parasols stretch out to 3m from the pole, which is plenty enough for a standard outdoor sitting area.<\/p>\n

If you want something smaller, maybe for a small balcony or yard, there are 2m parasols.<\/p>\n

If you have a large sitting area, there are cantilever parasols that measure over 4m.<\/p>\n

Just keep in mind that a large parasol will be heavier and harder to handle. This is important if you plan to move it around often rather than use it in one fixed area.<\/p>\n

b) Base<\/h3>\n

The base of the parasol should be wide and heavy enough to keep the umbrella from tipping especially when it gets windy.<\/p>\n

Some cantilever parasols require extra weights to keep the base stable.<\/p>\n

Note: <\/strong>Regardless of how stable the base is, it\u2019s a good idea to close the parasol at night and during inclement weather. Too much wind and rain can damage it.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

c) Weather Proof<\/h3>\n

Make sure the parasol can withstand all kinds of weather.<\/p>\n

Most cantilever parasols consist of a powder-coated aluminium pole that can resist rust and a fade-proof umbrella fabric.<\/p>\n

No matter what the manufacturer says, we recommend reading customer reviews to get an idea of how well the parasol fairs outdoors after several weeks or months.<\/p>\n

d) Opening and Closing Mechanism<\/h3>\n

Check what kind of opening and closing mechanism the parasol uses. It should be smooth and easy to use, requiring no more than a few second to open or close the parasol.<\/p>\n

Most parasols use a simple crank mechanism.<\/p>\n

e) Flexibility<\/h3>\n

Check if you can swivel and tilt the parasol.<\/p>\n

This allows you to quickly change the position of the umbrella depending on where you are sitting and the time of day.<\/p>\n

For instance, tilting the umbrella lower provides better shade protection in the afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky.<\/p>\n

f) Extra Features<\/h3>\n

Check whether the parasol comes with a protective cover. You use it when the umbrella is folded down and not in use.<\/p>\n

It improves the longevity of the parasol especially in winter.<\/p>\n

Another cool feature we\u2019ve seen in some cantilever parasols is LED lighting. That can come in handy when you are outdoors at night.<\/p>\n

How to Use a Cantilever Parasol<\/h2>\n

1. Initial Assembly<\/h3>\n

You\u2019ll need to assemble the parasol when it arrives. This involves bolting the stem or pole to the base.<\/p>\n

If weights are supplied, add them to the base. If they aren\u2019t, you can usually use stones to weigh the base down.<\/p>\n

With some parasols, you can also order weights separately from the manufacturer.<\/p>\n

With the base and stem set up, lock the pole with the umbrella into the stem and secure both together using a clamp.<\/p>\n

Then lift the umbrella handle to extend the canopy upwards and outwards to its maximum height. In most parasols, you\u2019ll hear a lock spring in place when the canopy has stretched out to the end.<\/p>\n

Use the crank to open the umbrella.<\/p>\n

Note: <\/strong>The assembly process may vary for your parasol. Check the user manual for specific assembly instructions.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

2. Operation<\/h3>\n

Operating the cantilever parasol is easy.<\/p>\n

To open or close the umbrella, you simply turn the crank in one direction or the other.<\/p>\n

To rotate the umbrella, there\u2019s usually a clamp you need to loosen then rotate the umbrella pole.<\/p>\n

In some parasols, you can also tilt the umbrella using a handle. You can set it to shade you directly from above or from the side.<\/p>\n

Check your user manual for specific operation instructions.<\/p>\n

3. Safety<\/h3>\n