Outdoor umbrellas fall into two main formats: centrepost umbrellas and cantilevers. A centrepost umbrella places the pole through or beside the shaded area and is often a good match for an outdoor dining table with an umbrella hole. A cantilever moves the mast away from the centre of the canopy, leaving more uninterrupted space beneath the shade. Alfresco Outdoors & Heating carries both formats, including multiple Shelta models and selected Creature Leisure umbrellas.
The Shelta centrepost range in the range includes Harbord and Fairlight. Fairlight is available in 270cm and 330cm octagonal sizes and uses a collar-tilt system that allows the canopy angle to be adjusted as the sun moves. Cantilever options include Lynden, Savannah and Regis. Shelta's Lynden uses 360-degree rotation and variable tilt, while Savannah is available in larger square, octagonal and rectangular formats suited to broader entertaining areas.
Base selection is part of the umbrella decision, not an optional afterthought. Cantilever umbrellas can require substantial ballast or fixed mounting depending on the model, while centrepost umbrellas use bases sized to the canopy and installation. Alfresco also carries concrete and resin bases, including wheeled and non-wheeled cantilever options.
Always close an umbrella in windy conditions or when it is unattended, and follow the manufacturer's base and installation requirements. Use Cantilever Umbrellas or Umbrella Bases, Lights & Covers when you already know which format you need.
