Party Tents Key Terms

Raise your understanding of phrases used in the party tent industry

By Thomas Langford
Before you go searching for a party tent to rent or purchase, you should have an understanding of some of the terms that are used in the party tent industry. First off, you should know the difference between basic types of tents, such as frame tents, pole tents and canopies. Also, it can be useful to know some of the major parts of a tent's structure, such as fittings, ball bungies and foot pads. So read on to raise your knowledge as you get ready to raise your tent.

 

Canopy

A canopy is a lightweight party tent that works well for small events and does not require professional installation. While some styles include walls, others do not. Most canopies can fit in the trunk of a car and can be installed by two people in less than an hour.
Try: Visit Canopy Mart for pictures and more information about canopy tents. Click on the pictures to get specific details about each canopy style.

Pole tent

A pole tent, sometimes called a stake tent, is a traditional large tent with poles in the middle and along the sides. The tent is also supported with stakes and ropes. A pole tent's roof is large and peaked, and a pole tent takes up more space than a frame tent. Pole tents also require professional installation.
Try: The Imperial Tent Company provides pictures of pole tents, along with more information.

Frame tent

If a tent's aesthetics are important to you, you should consider a frame tent. Frame tents require less staking, so they fit into small areas, and several tents can be connected. Additionally, there are no center poles. This creates an interior space that is uninterrupted and very functional. Frame tents are generally more expensive than pole tents.
Try: L.T. Rental Services is a good resource for pictures and information about frame tents.

Ball bungies

Ball bungies are used to secure the tent material to the tent frame. When purchasing ball bungies, choose a heavy-duty cord that will last for an extended period of time.
Try: To see a picture of ball bungies and obtain additional information, visit Lab Safety Supply.

Foot pads

Foot pads help hold the legs of the tent or canopy firmly in place. They are made of thick metal and come with holes through which to pass the stakes.
Try: Ace Canopy provides good examples of sizes of foot pads, as well as information about their importance.

Tent fittings

Tent fittings are small metal tubes that are used to connect the metal supports of a tent. They are shaped in angles to be used for the edges, corners and middle of a tent.
Try: Check out Tents Canopy for more information about fittings.


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