FAQ

Q- Where are Skyspan umbrellas manufactured and what are the lead times?
A-Skypan umbrellas are manufactured in Carrollton, GA just outside of Atlanta.  Standard lead times are two weeks.
Q-What is the difference between the Horizon and Sunset series?

A-The Sunset and Horizon series of umbrella structures share many similarities, but the defining difference between the two would be the ability to retract.  The sunset series operates with a crank mechanism that allows the user to wind open or retract the canopy by turning a removable handle. The horizon umbrella is non-retractable and will stay fixed open.  The Horizon umbrella was designed with affordability in mind and is great umbrella to use when budgets are small, or when the umbrella simply doesn’t need to be retracted.

Q-Can the umbrellas be tilted?

A-Because of the design of the canopy, the umbrellas cannot be tilted. The conic shape of the canopy was design very specifically to allow wind to pass over and around the canopy.  When winds are pushing on the umbrella it actually pushes it down, causing it to lean slightly into the wind.  By tilting the umbrellas you would essentially be losing the conic shade and creating an area where wind would hit the canopy like a sail putting considerably more forces on the structure.

Q-Can the canopy be printed on?
A-The canopies can be screen-printed to include any logo or print desired.
Q-Are the umbrellas waterproof?
A-The umbrellas are 100% waterproof.
Q-What are the wind loads for the umbrellas?
A-Our portable line of umbrellas are wind rated for 37mph winds, and all other models are wind rated at 75mph winds and above.
Q-Is there a snow load for the umbrellas?
A-For areas that will be getting lots of snow, we recommend a retractable umbrella so that the umbrella can be retracted during snowstorms.  We’ve had umbrellas with 3-4 inches of snow on them that stood up fine, but so far testing hasn't been extensive enough to provide us with a definite "yes" or "no" answer.
Q-How difficult are the umbrellas to install?
A-We have 4 different lines of umbrellas and the installation difficulty varies depending on the model.  Our sunset and horizon series ship fully assembled and take approximately 15 minutes to install.  Our Vista cantilevered umbrella ships in 3 parts and takes approximately one hour to install.  Our panorama line is the most complicated and can take upwards of 2 days to properly install.