Umbrella Selection Guide

Centre pole vs cantilever, sizes, shapes and what fits your space. This page gathers the most common questions about umbrella selection guide into one place.

Freestanding or in-table (center pole) umbrella: which fits my space?

In-table

• Slides through the table hole for a tidy, integrated look.

• Great for restaurants and patios with fixed dining sets.

• Requires a compatible table with a centre hole.

Freestanding

• Stands on its own base anywhere on the terrace.

• Pairs with loungers, daybeds, or loose seating.

• Offers more freedom to move shade as needed.

Which fits

If every seat has a table with a centre hole, in-table is clean and steady. For open decks, pools, and loungers, freestanding or cantilever gives the freedom to place shade where people actually are.

Source: https://www.forishortus.com/f767304/Freestanding-or-in-table-center-pole-umbrella-which-fits-my-space.htm

Which umbrella shape and size should I choose?

Match the canopy shape to your table, and size it so the fabric overhangs the table edges by about 60 to 90 cm on each side.

Shape

• Round canopies pair with round tables and soft layouts.

• Square or rectangular canopies suit square and long tables.

• Octagonal shapes give a classic look for hospitality.

Size by use

• 2.5 to 3 m covers a 4-seat table.

• 3 to 3.5 m covers a 6 to 8-seat table.

• 4 m and above or large commercial models cover lounge and pool areas.

Round canopies suit circular tables and soft garden layouts; square and rectangular canopies suit dining sets and modern terraces and tile neatly side by side. Size the canopy to overhang the furniture by at least 30 cm per side.

Coverage guide

2.0 m to 2.5 m covers a 4 to 6 seat table; 3.0 m covers a 6 to 8 seat set; 3.5 m to 4.0 m covers loungers or large dining. We can recommend exact sizes from your furniture dimensions.

If you are unsure between two sizes, choose the larger canopy; a little extra shade is always welcomed by guests, while a too-small umbrella leaves seats exposed at peak sun.

Source: https://www.forishortus.com/f767303/Which-umbrella-shape-and-size-should-I-choose.htm

Center pole or cantilever: which umbrella should I choose?

Center pole

• Ideal for round and square dining tables with a central hole.

• Compact, stable, and usually the most cost-effective option.

• Shade follows the fixed pole position.

Cantilever

• Offset mast frees the centre for loungers and conversation.

• Rotates and tilts to track the sun through the day.

• Needs a heavier base because the load is offset.

Centre pole or cantilever

Choose centre pole (in-table or freestanding) when you have a dining table with a hole or want a classic look with a clear, simple base. Choose a cantilever when you need the shade offset from the pole, such as over a lounge, pool, or table without a centre hole.

Decision factors

Source: https://www.forishortus.com/f767302/Center-pole-or-cantilever-which-umbrella-should-I-choose.htm