One of the advantages of integrating an offset parasol into your garden furniture, or installing it on your terrace, is the ability to easily control the shaded area: the surface area that benefits from the protection of the parasol obviously depends on the orientation chosen and the location of the base.

A good understanding of the structure of the parasol and how it works allows you to optimize its use and make the most of its capabilities.

Belveo's range of cantilever parasols

The cantilever parasol model offered by Belveo , called Mistral , is equipped with a patented anti-wind system. It is designed to be fully repairable using accessories available on the Belveo website.

With its polyester, olefin or acrylic canvas, it offers a surface area of ​​three meters by three meters (square) or three meters by four meters (rectangular) It can be tilted vertically and rotated 360°.

The quality of our parasols and the materials they are made of is a priority for Belveo . Our products therefore combine aesthetics, efficiency and ease of maintenance.

Understanding the different parts of a cantilever parasol

The key difference between a cantilever parasol and a straight parasol is the position of the shade sail relative to the base. Thanks to an arm adjusted with a crank, the sail can be moved circularly and up and down to cover the desired area. The pole can be made of steel, aluminum, or wood, each material offering a different aesthetic and maintenance requirement.

The fabric can be made of polyester , olefin or acrylic : acrylic offers the best protection against the sun's rays, and is also recommended if you value preserving the color of the parasol.

Choosing how to orient a cantilever parasol to maximize shade

To best choose the location and orientation of the parasol, you need to know how the area to be protected is exposed. Which way does the sun rise, where is it at midday and at the end of the day?

In addition to sun exposure, the question of wind exposure in different areas of the garden must be considered. Indeed, in the middle of a very open space, subject to strong gusts, the parasol is likely to be vulnerable regardless of its weighting system.

The features of an offset parasol should match its intended use and location. For example, a particularly tall pole may be necessary to create a larger, less intense shaded area. It's also a good idea to inquire about parasol accessories, as some poles are adjustable to suit different terrains.

Unlike a straight parasol, a cantilever parasol's base is not vertically aligned with the canopy. Therefore, it is advisable to use adequate weights on the base to ensure overall stability.

The choice of parasol placement and pole angle also depends on what you want to protect most: is it the garden furniture where guests will relax? The barbecue where you're preparing the griddle for lunch? Or the terrace that you want to keep cool so you can take breaks during a long afternoon outdoors?

The best technique for adjusting the angle of an offset parasol

Once you've chosen the ideal location for the parasol base, unfold the canopy following the recommended procedure. The Belveo parasol opening system is intuitive and easy to use , thanks to a design focused on the end user.

The tilting system is then used to adjust the angle of the parasol, thus providing optimal sun protection at any time of day. As the sun moves throughout the day, the shade can be adjusted by rotating the parasol on its base at regular intervals.

Some tips for optimal use of a cantilever parasol

The chosen method of fixing the parasol can be a solid ground anchor, which would preclude moving the product if needed. It could also be a cross base weighted with paving slabs , or simple casters, which are less stable but ideal for flexible use and frequent relocation. In all cases, it is possible to add weights or ballast to the base of the parasol to ensure greater stability in windy conditions.

When the weather is really hostile, regardless of the method of fixing and despite the product's anti-wind system, it is best to fold the parasol and store it in its cover until the sun returns.

Even if maintenance is minimal, a parasol should be protected during the seasons when it's not in use, such as preventing it from getting wet during the winter. While it's possible to have a parasol repaired regardless of the model, it's best to take care of it year-round.

To provide your garden with the shade it needs, choosing the best parasol should therefore be combined with thinking about the location of the base and the orientation of the mast.

The quality of Belveo products allows you to fully concentrate on choices related to aesthetics and comfort.

June 04, 2024 — Briana Ntolla