It's the eternal question, here in the tenting business: frame vs pole tent.
You might not think it makes much of a difference - but it does. In fact, there are a lot of important differences between pole and frame tents. In today’s post, we’ll provide you with a brief overview of a few of these facts to consider when contemplating pole tent vs frame tent or frame tent vs canopy tent. Whether you’re planning a big party, a wedding reception, or you’re looking for a commercial tent to add to your rental business’ stock, understanding these differences is important when it comes time to make a decision.
Criteria for Choosing the Right Style Tent
When discovering when to use a frame tent vs. a pole tent, how do you decide which tent styles best suit your needs? It all boils down to how you intend to use your tent. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What kind of surface will the tent be set up on (e.g., sand, blacktop, grass, or gravel)?
- How long do you plan to keep the tent up for (e.g. weekend event or long term installation)?
- How much space will you have to set up the tent?
- How many people will be attending the event?
- Will you be serving casual snacks or a formal banquet style meal? How much room will you need for tables, seating, etc.?
- What is your budget?
Pole Tent Features
Pole tents are one of the most popular types of tents we carry, and it’s easy to understand why. Pole tents are simple, elegant, and can be customized with a variety of sidewalls.
Structure
The hallmark feature of center pole tents is at least one central pole that serves as the structure’s primary support (larger tents may have several). You will most likely find pole tents on grassy surfaces because they require vertical staking for stability. Without the additional anchoring, the tent poles alone cannot safely bear the weight of the canopy. If rain is in the forecast, keep in mind that soggy soil isn’t conducive to secure staking.
Appearance
Pole tents tend to have a distinctive peaked appearance due to the center pole, making them a good choice for formal events, such as wedding receptions. You can adorn center poles with warm white string lights, cover them in flowers, or find other creative ways to incorporate the poles of your party tent into your next event.
Set up
One of the advantages of center pole tents is that they are relatively easy to set up. When purchasing or renting, your tent should include everything you need for setting up and securing. At American Tent, our pole tents include a premium pole package with anodized aluminum center poles and side poles. You should also invest in a good drop cloth to protect your tent canopy during set up and take down. When it comes to setting up your tent, enlist the help of a few handy friends (or more depending on the tent size) and follow the directions to the letter.
Stability
The stability of a pole tent is hugely dependent on how well it is staked into the ground. As we mentioned, you need dry ground that will hold anchors securely. This means that pole tents will not work on concrete or paved surfaces, such as parking lots or sidewalks. To guarantee your safety, it is imperative to contact Diggers Hotline before driving stakes into the ground as underground services like electricity, gas, oil, steam, telephone, CATV, water, and sewer lines could be present in unknown locations.
How to Measure for a Pole Tent
There’s a good reason for that timeless expression: measure twice, cut once. While you won’t be doing any cutting, you still want to make absolutely certain that your tent size is in alignment with the size of your venue. Keep in mind, that you’ll need enough space for not just the canopy, but also for staking. You may need as much as an additional five to six feet around the area of the tent for secure anchoring. For example, if you have a pole tent that measures 40 x 80 feet, you’ll need an additional seven feet for a stake-line. That means you’ll need an area that is at least 50 x 90 feet for your 40 x 80 tent.
Anchoring Method
Staking is the tried and true method for anchoring pole tents. The number of stakes depends on the number of side poles, also known as “legs”. Drive a stake approximately 5’ away for 7’ legs, 6’ away for 8’ legs. Stakes should have 6” or less of the head exposed. The deeper the stake is driven, the better the holding strength. Stakes driven vertically have better holding strength than stakes driven at an angle.
Duration of Tent Use
When considering how long you will leave your tent set up, it is crucial to factor in the weather conditions, especially for pole tents. Although they are easy to install and portable, pole tents are typically not the ideal choice for long-term installations. This is because they rely on tension from center poles and side poles that are staked into the ground, which can become less stable over extended periods, especially in harsh weather conditions. As a general rule, it is recommended to take down pole tents after a few days to prevent potential damage from weather or wear and tear. However, if you plan to leave your pole tent up for more than a few days, it is essential to perform periodic maintenance checks on the stakes and guy lines to ensure their stability and safety. By doing so, you can extend the lifespan of your pole tent while ensuring that it remains safe and secure for your event.
Advantages of a Pole Tent
Pole tents are an extremely popular option for several reasons. They are usually lower in cost than frame tents and have few parts and a less complicated set up and take down. To summarize, pole tent advantages include:
- Quick and easy setup on grass or asphalt;
- Larger sizes - lengths up to 200 feet or more;
- Budget friendly;
- Distinct canopy appearance.
Disadvantages of a Pole Tent
Of course, one size tent does not fit all. Consider the following cons of pole tents:
- Center poles can obstruct interior views;
- Requires larger land footprint for anchoring;
- Cannot be used on solid surfaces like concrete.
Frame Tent Features
The primary difference between pole tents and frame tents is that, while the former must be staked into the ground and features center poles, the latter does not.
Structure
Without the center poles for support, the frame tent relies on load-bearing vertical poles around the perimeter of the tent. You can think of that “frame” as the tent’s support system. When assembled properly, frame tents are stylish, sturdy and a reliable structure for shelter.
Appearance
With their classic and clean look, frame tents are still an excellent choice for both business trade shows and special events, such as wedding receptions or graduation parties. What frame tents may lack in a dramatic exterior, is more than made up for with its open interior space and sightlines. Plus, our frame tents can be customized to be as pretty as they are practical - giving you the best of both worlds!
Space usage
These tents maximize the amount of interior space you can use, and because they do not depend on the surface beneath them for support, they are ideal for long-term use. Moreover, many of our customers choose to buy frame tents because they allow for a completely custom floor. Maybe you’re throwing a wedding reception and you need to install a mobile dance floor in the center, or perhaps you would like to furnish the space with a beautiful faux-wood design. Whatever you’d like to do, frame tents provide you with unobstructed space in which you can bring your event to life.
Set up
If you have a few helpers and a sledgehammer, frame tents are quite easy to set up. When you’re ready to assemble, lay out all the poles and fittings and begin assembling, starting with the center crown. Just be sure to put down a drop cloth first; that will ensure that your tent canopy stays clean, dry, and protected. You may also want to consider using a frame jack to easily lift your tent into the air.
How to Measure a Frame Tent
One of the primary differences between pole tents and frame tents is their different footprints. Frame tents have much different anchoring requirements, which means they take up less space than pole tents.
Anchoring Method
Frame tents offer a wide range of anchoring options beyond staking, providing greater flexibility and versatility in setup methods. In addition to stakes, you also can use weights using such as water barrels or concrete ballasts. Just be sure that your anchors are the appropriate weight. American Tent recommends the Giffy Tent Ballasting system - as a preferred solution to safely anchor frame tents. This engineered system consists of ballast weights that weigh around 30 lbs when empty and are stackable for convenient transportation. They are designed to fit in the back of a pickup truck, providing a practical and efficient option for securing frame tents.
Duration of Tent Use
Frame tents are best suited for long-term installations due to their sturdy framework and flexible anchoring options. The frame structure uses metal pipes that are anchored to the ground, making them more stable in harsh weather conditions. Additionally, frame tents can be installed on various surfaces, where staking is not possible. This versatility makes frame tents ideal for long-term installations, such as for storage or outdoor dining spaces. However, it is still important to consider weather conditions and maintenance for frame tents, especially for those that are installed for extended periods. Regular inspections of the framework and anchoring points can help ensure the stability and safety of the tent. Overall, frame tents offer greater durability and flexibility for long-term installations, making them a great choice for those planning extended use of their tent.
Keder Frame Tent
And just when you think you’ve decided between a frame tent or a pole tent, we’re here to offer an innovative new frame tent that implements keder track technology – the Ameritac Keder Tent. With its innovative keder track technology, this keder frame tent offers numerous benefits for those seeking a durable, adaptable tent. The Ameritac tent provides a faster installation process that minimizes wear and tear on the vinyl material. Plus, with the added benefit of the vinyl sliding directly into the frame, your tent becomes a fortress against the elements, completely water and weather tight. Additionally, the Ameritac Keder Tent allows for easy removal of the tent top, whether the frame is in the air or on the ground, making it an ideal choice for those who need to protect their investment from impending severe weather.
Advantages of a Frame Tent
For clear views and long-term use, frame tents are a fantastic option for nearly any event. Other benefits of frame tents include:
- More usable interior space
- Smaller footprint
- Can be used on different surfaces
Disadvantages of a Frame Tent
Of course, you may want to consider the following considerations when choosing a frame tent vs a pole tent:
- Additional hardware and parts
- Less portability if you are using cement ballasts
- Size limitations for larger events
High Peak Frame Tent vs High Peak Pole Tent
Vertex tents, also known as high peak tents, offer a striking, romantic profile. Their peaks are created by tension from cables pushing up on a center mast, allowing for a large amount of usable space underneath the tent, making the space feel open and airy. Even better, although these tents look dramatic, there is no drama involved in assembling them. Just a few extra hands and you’ll have your tent up statement peak and all - in no time.
High Peak Frame Tents
Like its lower peak cousin, high peak frame tents do not have a center pole, guaranteeing clear sight-lines throughout the tent. Their dramatic profile instead relies on cross cables and a mast attached to the tent frame and suspended in the air. For the most part, high peak frame tents offer the same pros and cons as standard frame tents. One of the primary differences between the two is cost - all of that high peak class does come at a higher price point. The other disadvantage is size limitations. If you need a larger tent for a big event, you may have to settle for a lower peak since high peak tents typically only come in smaller sizes.
High Peak Pole Tents
Again, high peak pole tents have most of the same pros and cons as standard pole tents, including the center pole. However, in a high peak pole tent, the center pole is more of an advantage, since it is between 5 and 7 feet taller than the center pole found in average height pole tents. That extra height creates the dramatic high peak that is the hallmark of high peak pole tents. Just like in homes, the higher ceiling makes the entire tent feel much more airy and open. Both elegant and striking, high peak pole tents are a favorite for formal gatherings and weddings.
Why Choose American Tent?
Choosing your event tent manufacturer is a big decision. At American Tent, we work hard to ensure your purchase of a frame or pole tent is a great investment. Our tents are made with the highest quality materials, right here in the USA. With a fast turnaround time, access to customer support, and a gorgeous final product, you will love ordering your frame or pole tent from American Tent.
Plus, if you can’t find the exact frame or pole tent you’re looking for, American Tent offers custom event tents as well. Our team will work with you to create the exact size and style of tent you need for our unique event.
Our Best Pole and Frame Tents
Whether you’ve got your heart set on a pole or frame tent, we’ve got you covered! Take a look at some of our most popular tents - and don’t forget to check out our sidewalls!
30x30 Frame Tent
Enjoy coastal vibes in this West Coast-style frame tent. Consider it a 900 square foot blank canvas, ready for you to turn into a masterpiece for your next event!
20x30 Frame Tent
Neither rain nor glaring sunlight will hinder your next event with our 20 by 30 frame tent. It can work on nearly any surface and set up is a breeze!
15x30 Frame Tent
This workhorse is also a rockstar! Our 15 by 30 frame tent is a fan favorite and one of our most popular tents. Not too big, not too small; it’s just right for your next gathering.
20x40 Pole Tent
Whether you are planning a bat mitzvah, kwanzaa celebration, or baptism, our 20 by 40 pole tent is ready for a good, old-fashioned revival!
40x60 Pole Tent
Expecting a crowd? Your guests will have plenty of elbow room in our 40 by 60 pole tent. The only problem you will have with this tent is that your guests won’t want to leave!
20x30 Pole Tent
Feeling ‘tents’ about planning your next event? Relax! Our 20 by 30 pole tent makes party planning easy. Easy to set up and take down, this user-friendly tent will put you at ease!
Frame vs Pole: Conclusion
The above facts are just a few of the most important differences between the frame and pole tents. Every situation is different - the question of frame tent vs pole tent for a wedding, for example, is way different than deciding pole tent vs frame tent for your church picnic.
If you would like to learn more, then we invite you to contact our fantastic sales team, Jake and Jeff, to find the information you need. We’re always happy to help you with more specific questions, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you would like more information about any of the products we offer! We look forward to working with you soon.
