How To Choose a Patio Umbrella

When purchasing a patio umbrella there are a few things to keep in mind as you shop. This article will give you the information and umbrella buying tips you need to select just the right umbrella for your needs.

Umbrella frames
Umbrella frames are either metal or wood. These two types of umbrellas usually open by using different methods. Most often, metal umbrellas use a crank lift or push button tilt. A crank lift or push-button tilt allows the umbrella to be tilted in many different directions. As for wooden umbrellas, they are usually opened manually by some sort of pulley system. Unlike metal umbrellas, wood frame umbrellas do not rotate. When deciding on which type of umbrella frame you want, think about which style will coordinate best with your decor. Also consider how the patio umbrella will be used.

Tilt methods
Umbrellas use three different tilt methods. One method is the collar tilt. This method, one of the quickest and most popular options, allows you to tilt the umbrella without ever leaving your chair. All you have to do is rotate the collar on the frame to tilt the umbrella. Another option is the crank tilt - you turn the crank until you get the desired tilt. The last method is the push-button option. Just push the button on the umbrella collar to get the tilt you want.

Choosing the right size
One of the first things you need to decide is what size umbrella you want. Finding the right size umbrella canopy is important to get the desired amount of shade for your outdoor area. Note that your umbrella should be at least 5 feet larger than the area you want shaded.

Canopy fabric
There are several varieties of umbrella fabric, and you will find various bold colors and fun patterns of umbrella canopies from which to choose. Many of these fabrics are weather- and UV-resistant. A favorite choice among umbrella purchasers is a breathable fabric. Breathable fabrics and will stay cool, even under the hot afternoon sun. Most umbrella canopy fabrics are colorfast along with being mold- and mildew-resistant.

Looking for just the right umbrella will be much easier by reviewing the following buying tips and information. An umbrella is a fun yet practical accent for any outdoor area. You will be sure to enjoy the shade and festive atmosphere that an umbrella provides for your yard or garden. Review the buying tips, then purchase one today!

Cleaning

Regardless of your patio umbrella's component materials, the cleaning process is usually standard. Begin by using a damp cloth to wipe away any dust or dirt. To remove tougher soiling, use soapy water before wiping down with a clean cloth. Avoid using chemicals, abrasive materials, or other harsh cleaning products, as these may cause undue damage to your patio umbrella. We recommend regular cleaning to keep your patio umbrella looking like new and performing well.

Opening your umbrella

It may seem obvious, but taking care to open your patio umbrella properly can ease stress on yourself and on your umbrella. When closed, typical patio umbrellas are set in a locked position. Before turning the crank or pulling the cord to open, we recommend pulling the ribs gently away from the pole. If the crank or cord resists, the umbrella will likely remain in its locked position. Proceed with a gentle, consistent motion until your patio umbrella is fully opened.

Closing your umbrella
For crank-style patio umbrellas, simply crank in the direction opposite of opening, as indicated by the arrows on or near the crank handle. Continue with a smooth motion until your umbrella is closed. If you have a manual patio umbrella or a pulley-style umbrella held in place by a pin, push the umbrella up before attempting to remove the pin. This will relieve pressure and allow the pin to slide out easily. Be sure that there are no obstructions in the ribbing as you close your patio umbrella.

Helpful Tips
If the chance for inclement weather is high, we recommend closing the shade of your patio umbrella or storing it in a sheltered area if possible. Be sure to close your umbrella completely into its locked position, and secure ties (if any) around the shade. Also, check that your patio umbrella is securely positioned in its umbrella stand. If sheltering your umbrella isn't an option, we suggest using a patio umbrella cover to protect your investment.

Storage is the best solution during severe weather. Store your patio umbrella in an upright position rather than on its side, which can cause warping of the ribbing. Even in storage, a protective patio umbrella cover is advisable, as it offers an effective defense against dust, dirt, mildew, and insect damage.

Do you need an umbrella stand?

If you need an umbrella stand, we have a large selection from which to choose. The type of stand you need will depend upon how you intend to use your umbrella. Standard umbrella stands can be used with tables or with freestanding umbrellas. We also offer specialty stands as well, such as our Deck and Dock Base and Spa-Mount Base.

For standard umbrella stands, you will need to select a weight. Determine the proper weight by referencing the size of your umbrella and whether you are using the umbrella through a table or in a freestanding capacity.

The guide below will help you to select a base for your patio umbrella. To choose a base, consider a few questions.

What size is your umbrella shade?
Is the umbrella positioned through a table, or is it freestanding?
Is the umbrella pole "oversized" (2-inch diameter or greater)?

START SHOPPING UMBRELLA BASES

Base Chart
Umbrella Shade Size (ft)	Umbrella Positioning	Base Size Options (lbs)
4.5	Thru Table	25, 35, 50
4.5	Free Standing	35, 50
6	Thru Table	25, 35, 50
6	Free Standing	50
7	Thru Table	25, 35, 50
7	Free Standing	50
7.5	Thru Table	25, 35, 50
7.5	Free Standing	50
8	Thru Table	50, 70
8	Free Standing	70
9	Thru Table	50, 70
9	Free Standing	70
6.5 x 10	Thru Table	50, 70
6.5 x 10	Free Standing	70
11	Thru Table	50, 70
11	Free Standing	70 and up
Large Diameter Poles
9 (2 in. pole)	Thru Table	50, 70 Large Pole Model
9 (2 in. pole)	Free Standing	70 Large Pole Model
11 (2 in. pole)	Thru Table	50, 70 Large Pole Model
11 (2 in. pole)	Free Standing	70 Large Pole Model