Don't let windy days ruin your outdoor relaxation. Discover how home owners in New Zealand secure their umbrellas.

Understanding the Challenges of Cantilever Umbrellas in Windy Conditions
Cantilever umbrellas are a popular choice for outdoor spaces due to their stylish design and ability to shade without a centre pole blocking the view. The issue that comes from that is the cantilever design shifts the centre of gravity, creating uneven weight distribution that can be affected by the wind.
Understanding these challenges is the first step in finding effective solutions to keep your umbrella secure. By recognising the potential for instability, you can take proactive measures to ensure your outdoor space remains safe and enjoyable, even on breezy kiwi days.
Investing in High-Quality Cantilever Umbrellas
We worked with Craig, a local homeowner in Whangarei, New Zealand to come up with a solution to outdoor cantilevered shade without compromising on design aesthetics or creating a dangerous, wind-prone nightmare.
For his space, we went with the Shadowspec Unity™ Duo in a designer Sunbrella Spa colour to match his Lujo furniture. To ensure the coastal environments didn't affect the Shadowspec Unity, Craig installed his umbrella with a surface plate. The surface plate is great for affixing umbrellas to preexisting decks and concrete patios, creating a strong connection to existing structures. This strength ensures the cantilever won't blow over.
We also recommend the In-ground anchor for new builds when you're pouring concrete. This fixing is strong, subtle and long-lasting. For large cantilever umbrellas such as the Trio or Quattro, we do recommend not using the freestanding base in windy locations - whilst this is perfect for the Shadowspec Serenity or Unity Duo, the size and strength of our larger models.

Exploring the Benefits of Luxury Shadowspec Unity Umbrellas
The quality of the umbrella is also key to stability and safety. We worked with Craig to supply a strong outdoor umbrella made at our factory down the road in New Zealand, we managed to put together the complete package to bring everything together, now, Craig can enjoy his space with his friends and family without being worried about the umbrellas blowing away.
The result is a stunning, considered and luxury space with clean colours that match the location. We're proud of this project as it shows the scope of collaboration along with the strength and stand out qualities of Shadowspec Umbrellas.

Additional Tips to Keep Your Umbrella Secure
Beyond investing in quality products and using surface plates or in-ground anchors, there are several additional tips to keep your cantilever umbrella secure. First, always close your umbrella when not in use or during windy conditions. This simple step can prevent unnecessary stress on the structure and reduce the risk of damage.
Another tip is to position your umbrella in an optimal space. We recommend installing in sheltered areas, such as near a wall or fence, to minimise exposure to direct wind. You could also consider using additional weights or anchoring systems designed for cantilever umbrellas to provide extra stability.
By taking these precautions, you can ensure your cantilever umbrella remains a reliable and stylish addition to your outdoor space, even on the windiest of days.
If you'd like to explore wind resistant umbrellas, get in touch with our shade specialists today.