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How to Pick a Patio Umbrella That Performs
Looking for just the right amount of shade, sturdiness and weather resistance? We've got you covered
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design... More »
When midsummer heat waves hit, even some sun worshippers begin begging for shade. Instead of forcing family dinners and lazy afternoons indoors, outfit your garden, deck or patio with an umbrella. This everyday item can make all the difference when it comes to a comfortable outdoor space.
With these professional tips on choosing an outdoor umbrella, relief from the heat is on the way!
With these professional tips on choosing an outdoor umbrella, relief from the heat is on the way!
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| Umbrella Size The size of your umbrella will determine how much shade your space will receive. Think about how much shade you want and how much room you have. Overcrowding your patio with a too-large umbrella won't look or feel good. Designer tip: Landscape designer John D’Urso says umbrellas ideally should be table width plus an extra 2 feet per side if possible. For example, if you have a 4-foot round table, look for an umbrella that's 8 feet in diameter. |
| The height of your umbrella pole is also important — you want it high enough to be out of the way, but not so high that it loses its function. Poles that are 8 feet high are the average, but there are other options. “Consider head height,” says D’Urso. “Seven-foot umbrellas are the recommended minimum.” |
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A tilted model helps to continuously block the shade as the sun makes its daily route from east to west.
To keep umbrella hinges in good shape while they're out in the elements, D’Urso recommends applying WD-40 and protecting the umbrella with a cover when it's not in use.
To keep umbrella hinges in good shape while they're out in the elements, D’Urso recommends applying WD-40 and protecting the umbrella with a cover when it's not in use.
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| Table vs. Freestanding Umbrellas Both table and freestanding umbrellas have their advantages. If you plan to serve and entertain often at the patio table, the former may be the best option.“Table umbrellas are much cheaper, and you can change it out every few years for a new look without spending a lot of money,” says D’Urso. |
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| However, if you want the umbrella to provide shade on a separate part of your patio — like over poolside lounge chairs — a freestanding design may be best. You could also just not want a pole to interrupt your patio table. “Freestanding umbrellas allow you to use a table completely for food space or game playing,” says D’Urso. |
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Umbrella Base
An adequate umbrella base is a must — don’t be fooled into thinking that securing it into a table will provide enough stability. Not only do bases hold umbrellas steady in high winds, but they also help keep them straight in sunny weather.
For umbrellas over 10 feet, look for the largest base you can buy. Be sure the base is designed to fit the pole on your umbrella. D’Urso recommends talking to the manufacturer of your umbrella to get the best fit.
An adequate umbrella base is a must — don’t be fooled into thinking that securing it into a table will provide enough stability. Not only do bases hold umbrellas steady in high winds, but they also help keep them straight in sunny weather.
For umbrellas over 10 feet, look for the largest base you can buy. Be sure the base is designed to fit the pole on your umbrella. D’Urso recommends talking to the manufacturer of your umbrella to get the best fit.
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Materials
Consider a fiberglass design instead of aluminum if you live in a windy area, says Seasonal Concepts store manager David Marchewka. “Fiberglass bends with the wind instead of breaking, making it a really important feature that will help the umbrella last a lot longer,” he says.
Consider a fiberglass design instead of aluminum if you live in a windy area, says Seasonal Concepts store manager David Marchewka. “Fiberglass bends with the wind instead of breaking, making it a really important feature that will help the umbrella last a lot longer,” he says.
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Pay attention to umbrella fabric, as it needs to be adequately weather resistant to both strong sun and rain. “Sunbrella fabric is about the best available,” says D’Urso, “and may be the least expensive in the long run.”
Ideabook published on Aug. 4, 2012.
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