Cantilever Structures stretch tensioned fabric in a steel frame, which is projected over an area from a set of posts positioned outside of that area. Cantilevers are ideal in applications where the supporting structure needs to be installed outside from the area being shaded. The fabric can easily be removed during the winter season or during a storm and is easy to reinstall when needed. Cantilevers are popular with playgrounds, public waiting areas, parks, swimming pools, and a variety of other sports and recreation applications.

  • All-Seasons: While these structures are designed to withstand various weather conditions, they are not rated for snow-loading. This feature ensures year-round usability, except in heavy snow areas.
  • Design Flexibility: Cantilever shade structures are highly customizable, allowing for a variety of design options to fit different aesthetic and functional requirements.
  • Extendability: The extendable nature of cantilever shade structures allows you to cover larger areas without the need for additional supports in the middle, making them ideal for covering expansive spaces efficiently.
  • Marine-Grade Hardware: The extendable nature of cantilever shade structures allows you to cover larger areas without the need for additional supports in the middle, making them ideal for covering expansive spaces efficiently.
  • Unobtrusive Footing: The footing design is discreet, minimizing the visual impact and maximizing the usable space beneath the shade.
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Unobtrusive Footing

Cantilever structures can be placed outside the area you would like to shade with the tensioned fabric protruding out from the footings. Posts are commonly positioned behind a fence or a seating area providing free-flowing movement underneath the tensioned fabric.

Commercial hip shade structure installation

Design Flexibility

These structures are not limited to a flat design, the steel we use to construct the frame can be straight or curved and can also include a truss to create a roof-like shape. We can work with designers and architects to create a shade structure that looks perfect for your space.

Father and son relaxing under a custom shade sail

Tailored to your needs

Our cantilevers can be customized to any size to meet your project requirements. Whether you need standard dimensions or a fully tailored solution, we can adapt the specifications accordingly.

For precise measurements, configurations, and installation guidance, please refer to the detailed technical information available in our CAD drawings. These CAD details provide all the necessary data to support accurate planning and integration into your design.

Large cantilever shade sail support structure

All-Weather

We can design these structures to accommodate a variety of weather conditions and, depending on the fabric you use, they can stay up in almost all conditions.

Large cantilever shade sail support structure
Bespoke Design

Shade Consultancy

This service is available to help provide your clients with an accurate description of what they can expect for the shade component of their project.

We will provide design, materials, construction detail, and timelines to completion.

We can be as involved as you need.  Dealing from design right through to completion, on a consultant basis, offering you consistency and accuracy of the completed product as well as the expertise needed to complete this specialized work.

Contact us to learn more.

Hip shade structure installation

Shade Analysis & Design

Our 3 dimensional Shade Analysis shows shaded spaces at different times of the day, maximizing needed shade areas while allowing sunlight in others.

Share this with your clients giving you/them complete control of the finished product and vision of the space.

Our Shade Architect specializes in our products and works in house, so you can expect prompt response times for edits and feedback. Use this service as a tool to offer clients an accurate representation of the shade they can expect for their space.

Freestanding commercial shade canopy

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FAQs About Cantilever Shade Structures

Where can you use a cantilever shade structure?

Cantilever shade structures work well in all kinds of outdoor spaces because they provide lots of shade without having posts everywhere underneath. Since they’re supported from one side, they help keep the area open and easy to move through.

A few popular places to put a cantilever shade include:

  • Walkways and skyways shade
  • Seating bleachers and sports fields
  • Restaurant patios
  • Pool areas
  • Parking lots
  • Play areas and playground shade structures

A lot of businesses choose these shade structures because they look modern, provide great sun protection, and help block harmful UV rays while still keeping the space open.

Can cantilever shade structures handle Canadian weather?

Yes, many cantilever structures are built to handle changing weather conditions like wind, rain, and hot summer sun. Some commercial shade structures can also be designed for snow loads, depending on the location.

Some fabric shade sails may need to be removed during the winter, while permanent structures are built to stay up year-round.

Do you need a permit for a cantilever shade structure?

Sometimes. Larger shade structures or permanent commercial shade installations often need permits, but it depends on your city and the size of the project.

If you’re installing custom shade for a business, school, playground, or public outdoor space, it’s usually a good idea to check local requirements before starting.

Why do people choose cantilever shade instead of traditional shade canopies?

One of the biggest reasons is the open space underneath. Traditional shade canopies usually need several support posts, but cantilever shade structures are supported from one side.

That means:

  • More usable outdoor space
  • Better visibility
  • Less clutter
  • Easier movement through the area
  • A cleaner, more modern look

They’re especially popular for commercial shade sails, patios, playgrounds, and seating bleachers where you don’t want posts blocking the space.

Can cantilever shade structures be customized?

Definitely, most custom shade solutions come in a wide range of sizes, layouts, and fabric colours.

Whether you need commercial shade for a playground, sports facility, patio, or another outdoor space, there are lots of ways to customize the design to match the look and function you want.

 

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