The Ultimate Patio Umbrella Buyers Guide

Gardeners love to be outdoors, and there are few things better than working in the garden with the sun on your back. Of course, you can have too much of a good thing, and as much as we all love a sunny day, we also need some shade. A sturdy, high-quality patio umbrella is a tool every gardener needs for those much-earned breaks.

The Umbrella Canopy

This is the most important part of the patio umbrella - its the shade cover ! The fabric needs to be fade resistant and made to withstand the sun’s harsh UV rays. If using fabric with the right properties, you can choose any colour to complement your area without worrying about discolouration from the sun. 

Size Matters with Patio Umbrellas

You need enough shade from your umbrella to cover your break area, so check size before choosing one. A 9-foot diameter is a great option. It is not too big for one person to move, put together, and crank open and closed, but it is large enough to provide shade for a 42- to 54-inch table with four to six chairs.

What Should the Frame Be Made of?

Aluminum is a very strong material for umbrella frames that is naturally corrosion-resistant. Steel is also strong but will tarnish over time.

You should also consider how strong the winds can get in your area. If you live in an area that’s prone to strong winds, you’ll want a frame with fiberglass ribs for reinforcement.

Umbrella base and fixations

The base of the patio umbrella is also important. The base needs to hold the umbrella firmly in place to protect against high winds and not to tip over or present a danger to those around it. Also you should consider it placing in a way so as not to be a tripping hazard. Look for a base that won’t tip over and will support the weight of the umbrella. For an alternative, extremely effective solution, consider fixing the umbrella via bolts into concrete or to a deck with a poured concrete ground fixing. 

With this guide, and a measuring tape, you have all you need to determine the perfect patio umbrella for your outdoor living space. Remember this helpful guide so you can shop for a patio umbrella without any guesswork.