Pool cabanas

A tent near the pool

Most pool or beach shade consists of upright and offset umbrellas built exclusively for shading purposes. A pool cabana is very similar to a canopy, in that it's a freestanding outdoor shade structure held up by poles. The main distinguishing features of cabanas haave a much more limited range of sizes, large enough to hold a few people sitting in pool chairs, but not large enough to contain tables and chairs.

Beach cabanas tend to have patterning or coloring on their shades that remind one of the beach, the surf, or at least the pool. Like a canopy, the cabana can be adorned with fabric that covers all four sides, also known as a four-sided curtain. Over the top is a pyramidal roof, which is skirted by a valance to give additional shade right over entrnaces and perimeters.

High wind resistance

Because cabanas are sometimes erected near the ocean, one feature is that they are tested thoroughly for being able to withstand high winds. In addition, if there is a storm with high winds and heavy rains, it may be impossible or at least very inconvenient to take down the cabana. A high-quality cabana resistance pays off by being robust to damages.

Curtains for privacy

The most common shade, the upright and offset umbrellas, are not good for privacy. Therefore one of the main things people look for in a poolside structure is a four-sided curtain that can be pulled back for letting in some light, but also closed to give privacy to the interior. If the sunlight is shining too strongly from one direction, the curtains facing that direction can be released. Make sure to get curtains which have convenient tie-backs so you're not forced to think of a solution for holding open the curtains.

Frame construction The frame of the structure is usually made of steel or some other very strong, rigid material. Because steel is unsightly to some people, the frames can be coated or painted to hide the metallic surface. The coating is usually a type of polyester (PVC) powder. The steel frame of the pool cabana sits on square base plates that are heavy enough to withstand the aforementioned rains and wind. Are you thinking of making the structure even sounder? Then consider bolting the base plate directly into your patio or deck.

Fabrics

The fabric of a pool cabana is not much different from fabrics for outdoor shades in general. Look for high-quality antimicrobial or antibacterial fabrics that are not only fade resistant, but preferably flame retardant for safety reasons.

Features

One popular feature of modern pool cabanas is a television mount. A mounting plate can hold a heavy set for your viewing pleasure while you sit and relax in the outdoor shades. A more practical device that can be mounted is a center ceiling fan that will help air circulate inside the cabana. Couple a ceiling fan to a roof air-vent means air will be constantly moving into and out of the pool cabana to keep it cool. However, cabanas usually do not have much room for maneuvering unlike space beneath an awning or offset umbrella.