Event Tent Guide
Not sure which event tent or structure is best for your occasion? Our guide compares the main types we offer—from affordable pop-ups for backyard gatherings to premium clearspan structures for large upscale events.
Review the comparison table below to see key differences in cost, setup, weather resistance, and more. Then click a tent type to explore available sizes and detailed specs. (We serve Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Quad Cities, and surrounding areas in Iowa & Illinois.)
Quick Tent Type Comparison
| Tent Type | Pop-up | Canopy | Smaller Rope & Pole | Larger Rope & Pole | Frame | Hybrid | Clearspan |
| Cost Factor $ = (least) $$$$$ = (most) | $ | $ | $$ | $$ | $$$ | $$$$ | $$$$$ |
| Available as do-it-yourself? | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no | no |
| Okay in a tight space w/o guywires? | yes | no | no | no | yes | yes | yes |
| Can it be heated or air-conditioned? | no | no | no | maybe | maybe | yes | yes |
| Stable on a windy day? | no | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Maybe erected w/o drilling holes in the pavement? | yes | no | no | no | yes | yes | yes |
| Okay w/ an obstruction in the middle of the tent area? | maybe | no | no | no | maybe | maybe | maybe |
| Does it have a center pole(s)? | no | yes | yes | yes | no | no | no |
| Is long-term rental available? | no | no | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Our well-trained staff will help you select the right tent. We are happy to answer your additional questions! Please call (319) 337-7368 (RENT)
Gable Roof vs Hip Roof
Gable Roof (left in the image):
This style features two sloping sides that meet at a central ridge line, creating vertical triangular ends (the “gables”). It mimics a traditional house roof.
Hip Roof (right in the image):
This style has four sloping sides that all meet at the top (or a small ridge), with no vertical gable ends. It creates a more pyramidal or “hipped” shape.
Key Difference Summary: A Gable tent prioritizes interior space and simplicity with its peaked, two-sided design, while a Hip tent emphasizes strength and wind performance with its four-sided, tapered structure. Choose based on your event’s typical weather — Gable for calmer settings that need max headroom, Hip for exposed or windy locations, though this can be mitigated with improved staking.
