Area Available
Finding the perfect wooden parasol starts with understanding your available space. Whether the outdoor area is small or large, both centre pole and cantilever parasols are suitable.
For instance, say you have an outdoor area with more than 15 square metres. A 3.4m square-shaped canopy would provide 11.56 square metres (approx. 124.39 square feet) of shade. Likewise, a 3.5m round-shaped canopy would provide approximately 9.62 square metres or 103.57 square feet of shade.
Please note: the shaded region is an approximation and can change with the sun’s angle.
If complete coverage of the shade area is what you’re looking for, go with a cantilever parasol. On the other hand, if you’re looking for minimal shaded space, the centre pole parasol is perfect for you.
Surrounding Décor
The design and colour of the parasol should complement your existing outdoor décor. Consider the style of your outdoor furniture, the colour scheme, and the overall aesthetics you want to achieve.
For a classic and timeless look, a centre pole parasol might be the right choice. If your décor is more modern, then a wooden cantilever parasol could be a better match. Also, consider the shape of the parasol (square, rectangular, or round) that best suits your furniture layout.
Day-to-Day Outdoor Activities
Think about how you typically spend time in your outdoor space. If you often host small lunch or dinner parties, the centre pole parasol that fits in the centre of the outdoor dining table might be ideal. Alternatively, a cantilever parasol can be practical for those who want to avoid having a mast in the centre of the dining table.
If you prefer lounging by the pool, you can consider a cantilever parasol. You can easily adjust the angle of its canopy to the sunlight and enjoy the warm outdoors while under the shade.
For all avid readers sitting outdoors, the cantilever parasol is also the best for you. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the comfort of the shade as you learn new things. And if you only require a small, shaded area while you sit outdoors, then you can consider the centre pole parasol.
Wind Conditions
You’ve been informed about the parasol canopy so far, but the important part is selecting a heavy base.
Determine if your outdoor area is wind prone. If the outdoor spot where you want to place the parasol is exposed to heavy winds, then consider adding a heavier base. Alternatively, opt for a lighter base if you have wind barriers in place.
The Bambrella Levante Side Wind cantilever parasol with a 2 x 70kg bamboo base ensures distraction-free reading times. Meaning, you can give full attention to your book, not to a wobbling parasol.
Similarly, the Bambrella Levante centre pole parasol comes with lighter parasol bases. You can choose between concrete, steel, or granite bases. The weight of these bases can vary from 25kg to 70kg.
If you like having a fixed spot for your parasol, you can opt for the in-ground parasol base and avoid the portable ones. This parasol base guarantees your parasol remains intact, even in strong winds (although we advise against using parasols in heavy winds). Moreover, this base is the most affordable option compared to heavier alternatives, and is also considered as the most sturdy option.