Frame Tents vs. Pole Tents: Which Is Best for Your Event
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Frame Tents or Pole Tents? Choose Best for You
Choosing the right tent can make or break your event. Whether you're planning a wedding in Scranton, a backyard birthday party in Waymart, or a corporate event in Honesdale, understanding the differences between frame tents and pole tents is essential for creating a comfortable, stylish, and functional space.
At CSE Services, we offer both frame tents and pole tents in various sizes to meet your unique event needs. In this guide, we'll break down the pros and cons of each tent type, help you decide which is best for your event, and provide real-life examples of how our customers use them in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
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White Party Tents
Party Tent Rentals: 1) All party tent pricing includes set-up and tear-down. Delivery is not included and is calculated by mileage to your event location upon checkout. 2) Party tents are typically delivered the day before your event and picked up the day after your event. 3) We will call you at least 48 hours before the delivery date to schedule a delivery window with you. 4) Party tent pricing does not include tables & chairs, if you require tables and chairs please add these on to your order. 5) Click on any party tent below for more information on that specific tent size along with seating layouts. |
What’s the Difference Between Frame Tents and Pole Tents?
At first glance, frame tents and pole tents may look similar, but they have distinct differences in structure, setup, and aesthetic appeal. Knowing these differences will help you choose the best option based on your event location, guest count, and overall vision.
But before you dive into the details of each tent type, it’s important to consider a few factors that will guide your decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Frame and Pole Tents
Selecting the right tent isn’t just about looks—it’s about finding the perfect fit for your event’s needs. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind before you decide between a frame tent or a pole tent.
1. Event Type: Are you hosting a formal wedding, an informal backyard party, or a corporate event? Some tents lend themselves better to certain event types.
2. Venue Space & Surface: Will your tent be set up on grass, pavement, gravel, or another surface? Some tents require staking into the ground, while others can be weighted down.
3. Guest Count & Layout: How many guests will you have, and do you need space for extras like dance floors, buffet tables, or concession rentals?
4. Aesthetic Preferences: Do you prefer a clean, open interior or a more traditional tent look with center poles?
Once you’ve thought about these factors, it’s time to compare the benefits of each tent style. Let’s start with frame tents, which offer unmatched versatility and flexibility for a variety of events.
Frame Tents: Flexible, Versatile, and Perfect for Any Surface
If you need a tent that can be set up just about anywhere, frame tents are the way to go. These freestanding structures offer unobstructed space and can be anchored on a variety of surfaces, making them perfect for both formal and casual events.
Key Features of Frame Tents:
- No Center Poles: Enjoy unobstructed space for seating, dance floors, or presentations.
- Freestanding Structure: Can be set up on any surface, including grass, pavement, gravel, and concrete.
- Weighted Anchoring Options: Use cement blocks or water barrels where staking isn’t possible.
With these features, frame tents are a top choice for those who need flexibility in their event setup. But how do they stack up in terms of pros and cons? Let’s take a closer look.
Best Events for Pole Tents:
Weddings & Receptions: The elegant design makes them perfect for outdoor ceremonies or receptions in Waymart or Lake Ariel.
Backyard Parties: Quick setup and affordable pricing make them ideal for casual birthday parties or family reunions.
Community Events: Perfect for festivals or fundraisers where the natural outdoor setting complements the tent's look.
If you're hosting an event on grass or gravel and love the timeless look of high peaks, a pole tent is a perfect choice. But if you need flexibility for tricky surfaces or an open interior, a frame tent might be better suited.
Best Events for Frame Tents:
Corporate Events: Create open spaces for networking, presentations, or product launches.
Formal Weddings: Maximize space for dance floors, head tables, and buffet areas.
Urban Events: Set up on pavement, concrete, or other hard surfaces where staking isn’t possible.
If you’re planning an event in a tight space or on pavement in Scranton or Honesdale, a frame tent might be the perfect solution.
But if you’re looking for a more traditional, elegant look, a pole tent could be the better option.
Frame Tents vs. Pole Tents: Which One Is Right for Your Event?
Choosing between frame tents and pole tents comes down to the specifics of your event—whether it’s the location, size, or aesthetic you’re aiming for. Both options have their strengths, and understanding the differences will help you make the best choice for your event in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide:
Frame tents:
Are freestanding structures that don’t rely on center poles for support, which means you get a completely open interior space. They’re highly versatile and can be set up on almost any surface—whether it’s grass, pavement, concrete, or gravel. When staking into the ground isn’t possible, cement blocks or water barrels are used to anchor the tent securely, making frame tents perfect for urban areas or hard-to-reach locations.
Pole tents:
Are supported by center poles that create elegant, swooping peaks in the tent’s roofline. While this design adds a beautiful visual element, it does mean there are poles inside the tent, which might limit your interior layout. Pole tents must be staked into the ground, making them ideal for setups on grass, dirt, or gravel—perfect for spacious backyards or open fields.
Offer a modern, clean look that’s ideal for corporate events and formal weddings. The absence of center poles means you get an unobstructed interior, giving you more flexibility for dance floors, stages, or unique seating arrangements. Frame tents are also highly customizable—you can easily add sidewalls, lighting, or heaters to create the perfect ambiance, rain or shine.
Pole tents:
Deliver a more traditional, elegant appearance, making them a popular choice for weddings, festivals, and garden parties. The high-peak roofline adds dramatic flair and visual appeal, creating a timeless atmosphere. Pole tents blend beautifully with natural surroundings, making them a great fit for rustic or outdoor weddings where you want the tent to feel like a seamless part of the landscape.
Frame tents:
Tend to be more expensive due to their complex structure and labor-intensive setup. They take longer to assemble and require more effort to secure properly, especially if they’re being anchored with weights instead of stakes. While they may cost more, the flexibility and open design often make them worth the investment for formal events or corporate functions where layout and aesthetics are a priority.
Pole tents:
are generally the more affordable option. Their simpler design and faster setup make them a cost-effective choice for events of all sizes. Pole tents can be installed and dismantled quickly, saving you both time and money—ideal for backyard parties or community events where you need efficient setup.
Frame tents:
Are the go-to choice for events that need maximum flexibility and an open interior layout. They’re perfect for corporate events, where you might need space for presentations and networking, or for formal weddings that require room for dance floors and buffet tables. If your event is in an urban area or on a hard surface—like pavement or concrete in Scranton or Honesdale—a frame tent is the best option.
Pole tents:
Shine in outdoor environments, especially for weddings and receptions where their high peaks add a touch of elegance. They’re also great for backyard parties and family reunions, offering a budget-friendly, easy-to-set-up option. If you’re hosting a community festival or outdoor fundraiser in Waymart or Lake Ariel, pole tents provide the classic look and quick installation you need.
Which Tent Is Right for You?
Choose a Frame Tent If:
You need a versatile setup on hard surfaces, want a completely open interior, or are planning a formal event with specific layout needs.
Choose a Pole Tent If:
You’re hosting an event on grass or open fields, love the traditional, high-peak look, and want a budget-friendly option that’s quick to set up.
Tent Size/Style |
Type of Anchoring |
|---|---|
| 10x10 White Frame Tent | Cement Blocks or Stakes |
| 10x20 White Frame Tent | Cement Blocks or Stakes |
| 15x15 White High Peak Frame Tent | Cement Blocks or Stakes |
| 20x20 White High Peak Frame Tent | Cement Blocks or Stakes |
| 20x20 White High Peak Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 20x20 White Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 20x30 White High Peak Frame Tent | Cement Blocks or Stakes |
| 20x30 White High Peak Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 20x30 White Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 20x40 White High Peak Frame Tent | Cement Blocks or Stakes |
| 20x40 White High Peak Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 20x40 White Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 30x45 White High Peak Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 30x60 White High Peak Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
| 40x80 White High Peak Pole Tent | Stakes Only |
Do You Deliver Party Tent Rentals near me in PA?
Our Service Area
Proud to Serve The Following Areas:
- Archbald
- Carbondale
- Clarks Summit
- Honesdale
- Lake Ariel
- Mount Cobb
- Scott Township
- Scranton
- Waymart
- All areas in between
If your party or event is beyond that radius, just let us know! We may be able to make special accommodations to suit your event.
NOTE: Fees may vary depending on how far you are outside our service area.
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Customers Who Rent Party Tents in Archbald, PA Also Shop For:
Tables and chairs are the perfect addition to tent rentals. They are a great way to give your guests a place to sit and eat or just relax and get off their feet for a bit.
Ready to dance the night away but hosting an event on a surface that isn't just quite right? Our Dance floor rentals are the perfect solution to provide a stable surface to show off your moves
Our party tent accessories include lighting, heaters, sidewalls and more to help you set just the right mood for your next event. Check out all of the ways you can customize your tent rental.
Ready to Rent the Perfect Tent for Your Event?
Now that you know the differences between frame tents and pole tents, it’s time to find the perfect fit for your event. Whether you're planning a small backyard party or a large wedding, CSE Services has the tent rentals you need to make your event a success.
Call us today at 570-335-1581 or book your tent rental online to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tent Rentals Archbald, PA
Does the price include set and delivery?
Yes, although additional fees may apply for areas farther out. Remember prices do not include sales tax.
Do you deliver to other cities?
Yes, but once again please be aware that due to rising gas prices and the possible need for an extra truck and labor that travel fees can be quite high. Please call our office for a current quote.
Does the rental time include your set up time?
No. We arrive early to set up so you get the entire rental time to play.
When do you set up?
That depends on how many rentals we have that day. Generally we arrive 1-3 hours before the rental time begins. If we have a lot of rentals that day, we may need to set up as early as 4 hours in advance. If this is the case, we will call the Friday before to confirm that someone will be at the party location.
We've rented some really dirty jumps from other companies in the past. Are they always that dirty?
No. The jump should be clean when you get it. CSE Services LLC cleans and disinfects after every rental.