OK, this got complicated. The reason for 3 stars was that the product I received had some damage and missing parts. If it wasnt for the excellent customer service (shout out to Anna), it would have earned a one star. If there were no problems, it would have earned a 4 star.
The Not So Good:
The crank handles and connecting bolts were missing from the box, a few small, but noticeable, scratches and dings on the main post area. After assemble, I noticed two small holes in the canopy fabric also. It looks like I got a returned product that was repackaged. Also, a feature of this umbrella is that it will not open to a full horizontal position. This may not bother some but, in my mounting/placement situation, it just looked crooked. (Note, there is a small plastic stop block that could be removed which would allow the umbrella to adjust to horizontal). The fabric is OK but seems a little thin. I really wish would offer replacement canopies because I cant imagine this lasting more than a 2/3 years.
The Good:
Customer Service. They were really responsive and took care of the missing parts and replaced the canopy. Even though they are presumably located in China, the turn around was quick and communication was easy. A lot better than some domestic companies Ive dealt with. The design and construction of the main post and supporting ribs seems very robust. The mechanisms for turning and raising and lowering are excellent.
I would recommend this umbrella and might even buy another one, just check it over thoroughly before assembling.
Update: They really deserve 4 stars so I have updated this due to their over the top customer service and the problems I encountered may have been the fault of the shipper and not the manufacturer.
Nice umbrella but mine had problems
OK, this got complicated. The reason for 3 stars was that the product I received had some damage and missing parts. If it wasnt for the excellent customer service (shout out to Anna), it would have earned a one star. If there were no problems, it would have earned a 4 star. The Not So Good: The crank handles and connecting bolts were missing from the box, a few small, but noticeable, scratches and dings on the main post area. After assemble, I noticed two small holes in the canopy fabric also. It looks like I got a returned product that was repackaged. Also, a feature of this umbrella is that it will not open to a full horizontal position. This may not bother some but, in my mounting/placement situation, it just looked crooked. (Note, there is a small plastic stop block that could be removed which would allow the umbrella to adjust to horizontal). The fabric is OK but seems a little thin. I really wish would offer replacement canopies because I cant imagine this lasting more than a 2/3 years. The Good: Customer Service. They were really responsive and took care of the missing parts and replaced the canopy. Even though they are presumably located in China, the turn around was quick and communication was easy. A lot better than some domestic companies Ive dealt with. The design and construction of the main post and supporting ribs seems very robust. The mechanisms for turning and raising and lowering are excellent. I would recommend this umbrella and might even buy another one, just check it over thoroughly before assembling. Update: They really deserve 4 stars so I have updated this due to their over the top customer service and the problems I encountered may have been the fault of the shipper and not the manufacturer.