Picturing an outdoor umbrella at a daycare centre, one might imagine a traditional centre pole umbrella, perhaps with a handful of children clustering in a shadow that won’t stay where it is most needed. In comparison to this, a shade sail stretching from one side of a play area to the other seems the obvious choice. So, why are so many daycare and early learning centres and schools either abandoning shade sails in favour of Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrellas, or using both?
Let’s take a closer look at why a Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella is so effective in outdoor spaces like childcare centres.
- Versatility
Once a shade sail is in, the shadow is permanent, whether welcome or not, and the effectiveness of the shade is limited by the fixed position. How does an umbrella differ? The most popular umbrella option for childcare centres is Shade7’s Riviera cantilever umbrella. The strong, beautiful mast is to the side of the canopy, effectively creating an outdoor ‘room’ with the outstretched canopy. And with 360degrees rotation, and a generous tilt to screen low sun, the Riviera cantilever umbrella offers flexibility to move much-needed shade throughout the day. And although it can seem obvious when stated, the added advantage of a Shade7 cantilever umbrella over a shade sail it is the freedom to close (or rotate) the umbrella, removing unwelcome shadow with no effort.
- Ease of operation.
The Riviera cantilever umbrella’s 360degree rotation is achieved by simply lifting the rotation handle at the bottom of the mast and smoothly guiding the mast left or right as desired. In a similar fashion, the canopy is tilted by gently drawing the main arm that supports the canopy down the mast, with a simple tighten/loosen knob securing it at the desired angle. This means moving shade is not only effortless, but immediate. Opening and closing the umbrella is equally simple; a winder handle on the side of the mast drops the canopy against the mast and unfurls it again for instant use.
- Ease of installation.
An early pain point when considering installing a shade sail is the possible requirement of council consent, and demanding installation requirements. By comparison, no consents are required for Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrellas, which can be installed without delay by most people handy with simple tools. With the option of an in-ground fitting for installation, this umbrella can be installed at most daycare/early learning centres and schools, with a shovel, wet cement and a level.
- Aesthetic appeal.
When considering shade solutions for a school or childcare centre, the immediate (and sometimes only) intention is to determine the most effective shade possible within the budget allowed. With huge UV-resistant premium canvas canopies, 360degree rotation and generous tilt, the effectiveness of the Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella is clear. However, many early learning and childcare centres discover that in choosing the Riviera cantilever umbrella, they gain a stylish landscaping feature that greatly enhances the outdoor setting as well as meeting the very important role of protecting the skin of pupils and teachers alike. With a wide selection of colours ranging from bright and cheerful to understated and neutral, along with the choice of black or silver anodising on the mast and frame, the Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella will complement any setting while offering the most versatile shade.
- Strong in the wind.
Shade7 umbrellas are designed and engineered for New Zealand’s challenging coastal conditions. The Riviera 4 is the latest iteration of this strong, beautiful cantilever design. The 3.5 octagonal Riviera has a wind-rating of 60kph when open and level, and the 4.0 octagonal (pictured) has a wind-rating of 50kph. The Riviera 4 has been further streamlined to increase strength and performance in the wind. The Riviera 4 is Shade7’s strongest and most beautiful cantilever to date, gracing 5star resorts in the pacific in addition to some of the most beautiful yet exposed locations in New Zealand.
- Skin Protection
UV levels in New Zealand are high year-round but are particularly harsh in the summer. Shade7 premium acrylic canvas canopies have the highest possible UV protection rating of UPF 80. This significantly increases protection from harmful UV rays. A UPF rating of 80 means being able to stay outdoors 80 times longer with 99.8% of damaging radiation blocked by the canopy. Wearing sun block and a hat is strongly recommended for any children playing outside, but the protection of a Shade7 canopy overhead will add meaningful protection to those beneath the canopy and peace of mind to parents and caregivers.
With many years specialising in designing and engineering outdoor umbrellas for New Zealand conditions, and generous commercial warranties, Shade7’s Riviera cantilever umbrellas offer elegant, stylish protection for many years. Early childhood care and education is a competitive field, and with the Shade7 Riviera cantilever umbrella providing both visual appeal and premium shade, Shade7 is increasingly the first and final stop for those seeking shade solutions for their beautiful, caring daycare or early learning centres. For advice on the best options for outdoor umbrella shade for your venue, contact the experienced friendly team at Shade7.
