From the similarities in their basic shape and functionality, it’s easy to confuse commercial-grade cabanas with event tents. After all, both use tensioned fabric to provide protection from the sun and/or rain, but the reality is that there are significant differences that shouldn’t be overlooked. In fact, many concert venues and outdoor event spaces have been upgrading their event tents to commercial cabanas.
Before we discuss the differences between event tents and cabanas, it’s important to note that there’s a major difference in quality between residential cabanas and commercial versions. In this post, we’re comparing commercial-grade cabanas against commercial-quality tents.
Difference #1: Quality & Durability
Commercial cabanas are fabricated from top-quality materials, including steel frames with powder coat finishes and awning or marine-grade fabrics, to be incredibly sturdy. Event tents, on the other hand, are notorious for ill-fitting frame connections that rattle in the wind and fabric coverings that are more reminiscent of tarps than quality fabrics. Both can be engineered to withstand wind loads, but cabanas have unsurpassed, long-term durability for even the most challenging climates.
Difference #2: Permanence & Installation
Event tents are the better option for those who need temporary coverage – with quick installation and strike procedures. Cabanas, on the other hand, are semi-permanent structures that are incorporated into a property’s landscape design – with the intention of remaining in place for years to come.
Difference #3: Style & Design
Event tents come in a range of sizes and configurations to address your property’s needs (like cabanas), but the aesthetic options are generally limited. When choosing the right cabanas for your property, you’ll explore a range of styles – from decorative options like the Tuscan Cabana to modern versions like the Surf Cabana to traditional designs like the Wailea Cabana. Once you’ve chosen a style, you’ll explore the various color and pattern options available, so you’re sure to achieve the ideal impact – instead of settling with plain white.
Difference #4: Ordering & Purchasing Process
American-made and manufactured to order, our custom cabanas are crafted with your specific needs in mind. Unlike event tents which can often be ordered through a simple online form, the purchasing process for commercial cabanas is guided by design and engineering experts who walk you through each step. For a more in-depth look, read our post: Understanding the Process for Purchasing a Commercial Cabana.
Difference #5: Optional Luxury Add-Ons
Because our cabanas are manufactured to your design specifications, they can be accessorized to be so much more than a weather-protective shell. From heating solutions to secure HDTV mounts, cabanas have extensive luxury options that far surpass those available in traditional event tents.
Looking to Upgrade Your Event Tents This Year? Let’s Talk About Cabanas.
At Resort Cabanas (a division of Eide Industries, Inc.), we specialize in designing, manufacturing, and engineering custom commercial cabanas and pre-engineered options. With almost 80 years of extensive design, construction, metal fabrication, industrial sewing, and installation experience, we are proud to offer the highest quality products possible, made right here in the U.S.