Sure, you need a shading structure if you can no longer beat the heat, or if you want to be more comfortable within your open space. However, you also can’t just ignore the cost. Keep in mind that you’re going to spend some money not only in the purchase and installation of the structures but also in their maintenance.
Which, then, between the shade sails and cantilever umbrellas should you purchase?
What Are They Really?
Definitely, cantilever umbrellas and shade sails are different from each other. The former remind you of the parasols, those very huge umbrellas attached on tables. The only difference is that you don’t insert them in the middle of a table. Instead there’s a post with a protruding beam. Attached to it then is the umbrella.
The shade sails, on the other hand, are usually fabrics that are stretched out across an open space, the area you wish to cover. You need four corner points, which will hold the material.
Nevertheless, despite their differences in form, they share almost the same function. Both protect your skin from the heat of the sun. The cantilever umbrellas are also often made from fabrics.
Now for the Price
There are a number of factors you have to consider before you can say the shade is worth the investment. First, you have to know the amount of protection it can provide. In this category, the shade sail is a sure winner. Because it’s spread out, it tends to cover more space. The only thing you can do with cantilever umbrellas is to change their position, but the area they cover is basically the same.
On the other hand, with regards to flexibility, cantilever umbrellas take the lead. The posts are easier to carry and move around. You can speedily set up a cantilever than a shade sail.
But you’re going to save more money in terms of equipment or material if you’re going to use shade sails. This is because all you need to have are dependable posts. If you already have them-say, a pillar of a gazebo or a pergola-you don’t need to need to purchase a lot of them. For some people, this could really mean a lot of savings.
Both are certified eye candy, though you’ll have more flexibility in design and shade with shade sails.
Though shade sails are cheaper than cantilever umbrellas, the latter may still be worth it if you like greater mobility.