Here Comes the Sun (Protection)

There are some key items that come to mind when you think of the furnishings and accent pieces you need for creating your outdoor haven. A patio set with comfy chairs for leisurely outdoor meals. An outdoor cooker like the Big Green Egg for making said meals. Perhaps an outdoor sofa for relaxing and entertaining.

If you are going to be spending a lot of time outside, there’s another item you need. Shade solutions, like a market or cantilever umbrella, make outdoor living much more…well, livable. Learn about the different types of shade solutions and how to choose the ideal type and size for your space.

Stand (or Sit) Under My Umbrella

The demand for shade products has increased as more and more people realize that the perfect patio or deck space isn’t complete without a little place to retreat from the often-intense heat of the sun, and umbrellas are one of the most common shade solutions. There are two main types of patio umbrellas:

· Market umbrellas: The most common type of patio umbrella, this type is defined by a center stand with multiple support bars connecting to the canopy. There are multiple sizes and types of market umbrellas, such as tilting umbrellas that let you adjust the angle to stay in the shade as the sun moves throughout the day.

· Cantilever umbrellas: These umbrellas feature an arched construction. The stand may be off to a side, allowing the canopy to be positioned directly over a seating area. Cantilever umbrellas are popular due to the large range of motion they support and the flexibility they offer. For instance, higher end residential or commercial umbrellas, also called cantilevers, may have several canopies off one pole structure.

Umbrellas Sizes

Once you choose the type of umbrella, you need to select the appropriate size for your outdoor space.

If you are selecting a market umbrella for an outdoor dining set, your umbrella should extend approximately two feet on each side of the table. Here are some standard guidelines to follow for popular patio dining table and umbrella sizes.

Table Size - Small dining table (30 – 36 inches)

Umbrella Size - Small market umbrella (6 – 8 feet canopy)

Notes - 7.5 feet diameter umbrellas are a standard small size.

Table Size - Medium dining table (38 – 48 inches)

Umbrella Size - Medium market umbrella (9 – 11 feet canopy)

Notes - Most standard patio table market umbrellas are 9 feet in diameter.

Table Size - Large dining table (50 – 60 inches)

Umbrella Size - Large market umbrella (Available in octagon, square or rectangle shapes with a range in sizes. For example, an 8' X10' is commonly used for larger rectangular or oval tables.)

Notes - May need to custom order large sizes, especially if a unique or specific color is desired.

While many patio table market umbrellas are round, there are also specialty umbrellas such as oval, square and rectangular sizes that may be the best fit for your table and available space.

Cantilever umbrellas are also available in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit your requirements. A 10-foot, 11-foot or 13-foot round cantilever umbrella can make for the perfect addition to your sun deck as they can easily be swiveled to shade a portion of your pool, dining or lounge area, providing a quick retreat from the sun’s rays. Square and rectangular shapes are available as well.

All About the Base

Pay attention to your umbrella's specifications to see if it comes with a base, as many umbrellas do not. If not, there is a wide variety of base styles and weights available to purchase, including free standing or bases for under the table. A pre-filled weighted umbrella base is the perfect way to add value to your standard or market umbrella, ensuring it will stand tall when you need it most. Make sure to choose a heavy enough stand. 50 lbs is the minimum weight you want for standard 7.5 - 11 foot umbrellas.

There are also bases with wheels on them, so you can easily move your umbrella around throughout the day.

Umbrella Features and Color Options

Quality umbrellas come with different features to make them perform better and last longer. Some options may include:

· An infinite auto tilt mechanism will tilt after the umbrella is fully opened. You can simply keep cranking and stop at the desired tilt angle.

· Push button umbrellas will easily tilt by using a button at the top of the mechanism below the canopy after the umbrella is fully opened.

· Specially designed cap at the top vents out hot air.

· Umbrella lights or umbrellas with lights are available for use into the nighttime in an outdoor space for tasking, playing table games or simply providing ambiance into the evening.

The fabric will also affect both the look and performance of your umbrella. Many sun umbrellas also come in fabrics that have been specially treated with protective dyes and finishes that resist fading and damage from inclement weather. When it comes to design, customization is key, as you can find umbrellas in a rainbow of canopy and pole colors. Some people choose an umbrella in a neutral color to coordinate with their home and siding, while others opt for accent colors. Some popular options in the Midwest include:

· Bright citrus type colors, such as yellow, add a pop to the outdoor living space.

· Earthy, neutral colors such as beige, brown or burnt red, are a good option to coordinate with homes.

· Black umbrellas are popular, especially for modern farmhouse style homes. Black is also a good solution for people who have white, charcoal or grey patio furniture.

Protective Covers

Believe it or not, the umbrella that protects you from the sun and rain, should have a protective cover itself. By storing your umbrella in a protective cover when not in use, it’s always dry and ready to go when you want to use it. Outdoor furniture covers also protect from accidental opening from wind gusts and help keep critters from making a home in the umbrella. Protective covers last about 2-4 years and are sold separately by size.

Nobody wants their perfect summer day or party ruined by sunburnt skin or melted food. Make sure to choose the ideal umbrella for part of your shade solution so your guests are covered and the outdoor fun can go on and on!