This umbrella does not work well at all when at a tilt and freestanding. I read the reviews and was excited to purchase the item, but after having it on my pool deck and at an angle, the slightest breeze lifted up the base, almost making the stand and all fall over. I live in a neighborhood that is not gusty at all. Save yourself some money and get a different base if you plan on using it as a freestanding base with umbrella at a tilt. Otherwise, it's fine freestanding while s the umbrella is standing straight up.