This article is part of a series of posts with further explanation on many of our frequently asked questions.

Many people wonder what the difference is between a frame tent and a pole tent. This article will be a bit more technical than most. So, I'll do my best to make it easy to understand.

Pole tents, also known as tension structures are an evolution of the earliest type of tents. The forerunners to modern pole tents were the big top circus tents of the past. They have one or more high peaks in the center. Their structure comes from the fabric itself. They can be installed quickly with no need for beams to support them. Many of today's pole tents are engineered to withstand up to 70 mph sustained winds and 90 mph gusts. Pole tents are the most economical type of tent that we offer. They are great for weddings, backyard parties and other events of all kinds. They have tall, graceful peaks and airy spacious interiors. Many people prefer this style over the more traditional square frame tent appearance. They can be installed on nearly any surface where stakes can be driven into the ground.

While pole tents fill the needs of most of our customers, there are some situations where only a frame tent will fit the bill. Frame tents, also known as clearspan structures or clearspan tents offer some unique advantages. Sometimes, tents must be secured with weights instead of driving stakes into the ground. In locations where a driveway cannot be penetrated or where underground utilities make it unsafe to drive stakes, a frame tent with weights is the perfect solution. Frame tents are much more flexible in the ways that they can secured. They can be installed on a deck, patio or even the rooftop of a building. Frame tents have other advantages as well. They have no interior poles. This is great for construction projects where machinery must work inside the tent or events where poles would obstruct the flow of people. Frame tents also work well as weather protection for a stage at a graduation ceremony or other outdoor event with a large audience. Lighting and speakers can be hung from the aluminum beams of the tent. The front of the stage can be completely unobstructed by tent poles. Frame tents can also be easily raised to a taller height to cover a stage or to allow machinery to enter the tent. Some people prefer the more modern, "Euro" appearance of a frame tent.

Still not sure which type of tent you'll need? Contact us and let our representatives find the best solution for your event. Whichever type of tent you choose, rest assured that Tents For Rent will provide you with a quality tent and excellent service to make your event successful.