A quality patio umbrella will help ensure you can take full advantage of your outdoor space for many years to come. Learn about different shade styles, fabrics and materials so you can make an informed buying decision that meets all of your needs.
Care and storage recommendations vary based on manufacturer. Aluminum poles resist rust and weigh less, while steel can offer sturdy support. Additional factors to keep in mind may include fabric color/design preferences, tilting functions and wind vents to maintain stability in windy environments.
Fiberglass
This heavy-duty fiberglass octagonal market umbrella features flexible fiberglass ribs that bend and flex when exposed to windy conditions, making this commercial grade outdoor umbrella the ideal fit for restaurants, hotels, resorts and beach clubs. Available in several color choices and compatible with over 160 Sunbrella fabrics (guaranteed not to fade under normal use conditions), the Sunbrella umbrella fabric also contains UV stabilizers to delay its fading effects.
This octagonal umbrella frame comes in two beautiful finishes and its canopy can be fitted with Olefin, Pacifica or Sunbrella fabrics with generous 5 year warranties against fading. Furthermore, its fiberglass ribs have been coated with resin to provide added water damage resistance and corrosion resistance; additionally it’s easy to keep these high end umbrella fabrics looking their best by regularly brushing away dirt and grime, wiping up spills quickly when they occur, and spot cleaning any spots as soon as they occur.
Fiberglass octagonal umbrellas are more cost-effective than comparable aluminum or wood models, thanks to four times stronger fiberglass ribs which are up to 30 percent lighter than wood ones, as well as their higher level of impact resistance and resilience compared to metal counterparts. Wind tests conducted at University of Miami concluded that fiberglass patio umbrellas could withstand winds up to 50mph without breaking or bending – something aluminum patio umbrellas cannot do!
These high-end commercial outdoor umbrellas are an ideal addition to restaurants and hotels with open areas where patrons will be sitting at tables. Additionally, these commercial patio umbrellas can also be utilized at community pools and other recreational spots that need both sun and shade coverage. Furthermore, these high end patio umbrellas can even be branded to expand marketing opportunities.
Sunbrella
An elegant patio umbrella is handcrafted using only top-of-the-line outdoor fabrics available today, such as Sunbrella performance fabrics recommended by Skin Cancer Foundation to prevent UV induced skin damage. Breathable and fade resistant fabric offers unparalleled cleanability, durability, comfort, soft textures and vibrant colors to any outdoor living space – not to mention cleanability by the Skin Cancer Foundation!
An outdoor umbrella’s frame may be made from aluminum, fiberglass or wood. Aluminum is an extremely strong and resilient material that can withstand most weather conditions; fiberglass offers lightweight alternatives while still performing admirably against wind and rain; wooden umbrella frames may weigh more but provide a natural aesthetic in any landscape.
As well as its frame, an umbrella requires a base. Your choice will depend on its size and location; table umbrellas up to six feet in diameter typically call for 20-pound bases while any weighing more than 70 pounds require heavier bases.
Sunbrella premium patio umbrellas come in several types – free-standing models, table umbrellas and cantilever styles – to meet every outdoor entertaining need. Free-standing umbrellas are great for poolside use or shading lounge chairs while table umbrellas sit centered over patio tables for greater coverage than their counterparts. Cantilever umbrellas provide additional coverage than their predecessors and are often found at restaurants, cafes or five-star hotels.
High-end patio umbrellas are built to last, and should come with a limited warranty. Should any problems arise with your umbrella, it is imperative that you reach out immediately to its manufacturer; depending on the issue they may repair or replace damaged parts accordingly; otherwise you should consider purchasing a replacement umbrella instead.
Olefin
High end patio umbrellas are an excellent addition to commercial spaces such as cafes and restaurants, designed to withstand corrosion, fading and general wear and tear. Furthermore, these high-quality umbrellas can even be used on pool decks or coastal environments.
Before making a purchase, carefully consider your needs and the area in which you wish to shade. Consider how many people will regularly sit under the umbrella, and select an umbrella size which provides enough shade coverage.
Olefin fabric is another important aspect to keep in mind when purchasing an umbrella. This durable solution-dyed synthetic offers good fade resistance and water repellency properties as well as mildew resistance, chemical and insect protection. Plus, its versatile colors and patterns offer plenty of choice!
Some high-end umbrellas come with warranties of five years or longer, covering frame, fabric, and mechanical components of the umbrella – however this warranty may exclude damages caused by misuse or extreme weather conditions.
High-end patio umbrellas must feature a sturdy base that can bear the weight of their canopies. It should be constructed of hardy materials such as cast iron or steel for increased stability in windy conditions and ease of mobility; some decorative bases even come equipped with wheels for easier transport! To make sure it will support all of the weight your umbrella is supposed to support, always check its recommended weight before purchasing an umbrella base.
Polyester
An effective patio umbrella can offer considerable shelter from harsh outdoor conditions. But not all fabrics are equal – your selection plays a pivotal role in how it performs, protecting you from UV radiation while simultaneously keeping out elements. High-quality materials ensure long lasting patio umbrellas.
Budget Umbrellas (1-3 years of Warranty Coverage): Economical patio umbrellas typically provide warranties covering their frames and fabrics for 1 to 3 years; these warranties typically exclude damage caused by misuse or extreme weather conditions.
Mid-Range Umbrellas (3+ Years): Mid-range patio umbrellas typically offer warranties covering their frames, fabrics and components for three to five years; in some models this warranty even extends up to life with additional options such as limited warranty coverage or replacement guarantee options.
High-End Umbrellas (5+ years): Most premium patio umbrellas are covered by a 5-year or longer comprehensive warranty covering everything from their frame, fabric and mechanical components – as well as potentially lifetime coverage in some instances.
Consider a Crank Lift System over Push Button Tilt: Crank lift systems open and close umbrellas much quicker than push button tilt options; however, they require more strength for operation.
Consider a Lighted Umbrella: There are numerous lighted patio umbrella options that can add style and warmth to your outdoor space, whether solar- or externally powered. They provide excellent light sources in your backyard. Some umbrellas even come equipped with remotes that let you adjust lighting levels easily.
Pulley
High end patio umbrellas are essential accessories for homeowners and commercial hospitality businesses looking to improve their outdoor seating spaces. Before shopping for one, however, take the time to assess your own specific needs and explore all available options on the market – this comprehensive guide can help you select an umbrella perfect for your space and maximise summer entertaining!
Step one in choosing an ideal patio umbrella is to determine its target coverage area. Begin by measuring and sketching out your outdoor furniture dimensions. Next, use these measurements to calculate an ideal canopy size.
Patio umbrella fabric should also be considered, with numerous types available on the market. Ranging from budget-friendly polyester to higher quality Sunbrella, polyester offers easy cleaning while not offering as much UV protection than its alternatives; while Sunbrella, on the other hand, features solution-dyed acrylic yarn that resists moisture and fade fading as well as providing superior durability.
There is also a range of patio umbrella frames to choose from, crafted from hardwood such as eucalyptus, teak or cedar; others use fiberglass or aluminum construction. Wooden frames tend to be more costly but offer classic design elements that complement many outdoor furniture sets.
Consideration should also be given to your patio umbrella’s lift system, with some models offering simple crank lift mechanisms while others offering more advanced models that ratchet lift with safety straps, making raising and lowering easier without risking injury or damaging its frame.