The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Outdoor Umbrellas: Style, Function, and Durability

The summer is here and everyone is excited for the long, sunny days ahead! Well, at first yes, but imagine yourself sitting on a terrace, balcony, or in the garden and the sun comes directly at you. Might be nice for a few seconds, but none of us is really happy with the direct impact of the sun, and its unhealthy exposure.

In addition to permanently installed awnings, outdoor umbrellas or parasols are a popular option in the creation of shaded areas. Outdoor umbrellas are available in a wide range and differ in mechanism, installation methods, materials, etc. This is why we have created an ultimate guide with the most important information you need when choosing the best outdoor umbrella for your patio, restaurant, or swimming pool.

Types of Umbrellas On The Market

Outdoor umbrellas, commonly known as parasols are roughly divided into center pole umbrellas and cantilever umbrellas.  The center pole umbrella is a classic parasol, and as its name says the mast is located in the middle, just like on the typical umbrella. Umbrellas of this kind provide shade all around.

On the other hand, the cantilever umbrella has its mast located on the side and the covering can be rotated 360°, allowing flexible alignment according to the direction of the sun’s rays. The base of the cantilever parasol is found to be more practical than the stand of the conventional center pole umbrella, as it does not disturb the seating area.

Additionally, there are other, special types of parasols, where for example, a balcony parasol can be designed in such a way that the pole stands against the wall with the umbrella covering the area away from it. This specific umbrella is found to be ideal for small balconies and gardens. 

How Are Outdoor Umbrellas Operated

The parasol can be extended, for instance, by pulling on a cable, and its position is frequently held by a pin or clamping device. Additionally, some parasols have a crank mechanism that is used to open the umbrella. Certain parasol types also include a  handle and a sliding mechanism for extending. When it comes to cable pull parasols, these must be stretched with considerable power. In general, opening an umbrella that uses a crank or handle-slide mechanism is easier. 

The function of Outdoor Umbrellas

Before making a purchase, make sure you know exactly what you want or need in a patio umbrella, including the form, the material it is made of, and the functionality. If you already know what kind of umbrella you need, check https://www.expondo.ie/outdoor-umbrella/ as they offer a great range of outdoor umbrellas, in different shapes and sizes. In case you are new to this, here is the list of the things everyone should consider to get a perfectly functional outdoor umbrella for any exterior.

Size and Coverage

Analyze the hardscape and softscape (the garden or other vegetation that grows on the ground or in containers) of the area. Measure the table if the umbrella will be used to shade a patio table. The majority of outdoor tables are available in normal sizes, but if yours is a bigger table that seats eight people or more, you should double-check that the canopy will fit over it. 

If your table is tiny and only seats two or four people, you also don’t want to choose an umbrella that will be too large for it. Also, check for the location of your outdoor table in relation to the house’s roof and overhang, will the umbrella be too high to touch the roof? 

If you want it to be perfect, there should be some space left between the roof or overhang and the umbrella. In addition, you may also want to check where you will position an umbrella in relation to the grill or outdoor kitchen, as it is not desirable to have an umbrella close to the open flames. 

Here is the tip for the size of an umbrella if you are looking for one to cover your outdoor table. If the table has a diameter of 75-90 centimeters, then the umbrella diameter should be between 1.8-2.4 meters. 

Materials

Wood, metal, or fiberglass are the conventional materials used to make umbrella frames. Aluminum is the most popular substance, and you will most frequently find it used for umbrella poles. It is resistant to all weather conditions if constructed properly and given the appropriate finish. 

Although more expensive, a wood frame, particularly one made of outdoor-tolerant wood like teak, ipe, or eucalyptus, is another common material for umbrellas. Fiberglass is a lightweight, flexible, non-corrosive material that outperforms metal in a variety of weather situations.

Weather-resistant materials such as solution-dyed acrylic and polyester fabric can be a great choice, as aside from being water-repellent, they offer great UV protection and are also fade-resistant. Also make sure to ask or read the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the maintenance of the canopy, as not all materials behave the same, and this can help to elongate the durability.

Considerations

Setting a budget can be the biggest asset or limit to a buyer, as prices of parasols vary and depend on the size, materials used, and general features of the umbrella. How is your outdoor space, how often do you use it, and is a permanent fixture or portable umbrella a better fit? Every user has different needs, which is why it is important for users to understand their needs and accordingly choose an umbrella that will fit their lifestyle.

Recommendations

Based on the factors discussed above here are a few recommendations if you are considering buying a brand-new outdoor umbrella:

Classic Market umbrella – This will be a perfect choice if you are looking for a timeless look and good function. The classic market umbrella with an aluminum frame and solution-dyed acrylic canopy will be a perfect fit for any smaller balcony or nice and cozy summer garden.

Cantilever Umbrella – If you are a fan of edgy but modern and aesthetic looks, while also in need of functional and flexible shading options, this is the perfect option. Besides the good looks and provided space, make sure that the tilt and height features are adaptable, and do not forget the aluminum frame and water-resistant canopy.

Classic Beach Umbrella – In case you need portable on-the-go shade then a lightweight classic beach umbrella is a fit for you. Make sure it also has a UPF-rated canopy to provide you with extra protection.

All in all, giving broad advice for the best parasol is impossible due to the wide range of consumer needs and options available on the market. The aforementioned elements must be taken into account while buying a parasol, but style, color, and form are obviously also influenced by personal preference. 

Overall, you should make sure that the new parasol harmonizes well with the existing design idea or existing garden furniture aesthetically. Of course, the main focus should always be on creating an outside space that makes you feel fully at ease.