Sure, you need a shade structure if you can’t beat the heat anymore or want to be more comfortable inside your open space. However, you can’t just ignore the cost either. Keep in mind that you are going to spend some money not only on the purchase and installation of the structures but also on their maintenance.
Which, then, between shade sails and cantilever umbrellas should you buy?
What are they really?
Cantilever umbrellas and shade sails are definitely different from each other. The first reminds you of parasols, those very large umbrellas attached to tables. The only difference is that you don’t insert them in the middle of a table. Instead, there is a post with a beam sticking out. Attached to it then is the umbrella.
Shade sails, on the other hand, are usually fabrics that are spread over an open space, the area you want to cover. You need four corner points, which will hold the material.
However, despite their differences in form, they share almost the same function. Both protect your skin from the heat of the sun. Cantilever umbrellas are also often made of fabrics.
now for the price
There are a number of factors that you need to consider before you can say that shade is worth the investment. First, you need to know how much protection it can provide. In this category, the shade sail is a sure winner. Because it is spread out, it tends to cover more space. The only thing you can do with cantilever umbrellas is change their position, but the area they cover is basically the same.
On the other hand, when it comes to flexibility, cantilever umbrellas take the lead. Poles are easier to transport and move. You can quickly set up an overhang than a shade sail.
But you will save more money in terms of equipment or material if you are going to use shade sails. This is because all you need to have are trustworthy posts. If you already have them, say, a pillar for a gazebo or pergola, you don’t need to buy a lot of them. For some people, this could really mean a lot of savings.
Both are certified eye-catchers, though you’ll have more flexibility in design and shade with shade sails.
Although shade sails are cheaper than cantilever umbrellas, the latter can be worth it if you like more mobility.