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Issue Date: April 27, 2008
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5 things
you need
to know about |
Buying a patio umbrella
Non-mesh fabrics screen out more harmful UV rays.
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1. Find the right size to fit your space. Standard round patio umbrella sizes include 7 1/2, 9 and 11 feet. Bistro tables require the smallest size, roughly 6 feet, while 60-inch round tables need 11-foot umbrellas. "Tables larger than that tend to be oval or rectangular, so they work best with oval umbrellas," says Jeff Leisen, of umbrella manufacturer Galtech International. Cantilevered models come in even larger sizes, and they can swing 360 degrees to help shade multiple seating, spa or pool areas.
2. Think sun protection. Tightly woven fabric canopies allow fewer UV rays to pass through than open-weave materials such as mesh, says Florida dermatologist Susan Weinkle. And darker colors block out more rays than light colors do. A simple test: Hold the fabric up to the sun and see how much light passes through. For a list of umbrellas with the Skin Cancer Foundation's recommendation seal, go to skincancer.org.
3. Plan for the elements. Umbrellas with fiberglass ribs (as opposed to wood or steel ribs) are best because they flex in blustery conditions. The larger the diameter of the rib, the more durable the umbrella. Wind vents also help air escape from under the canopy and keep it upright. Umbrellas with a tilt mechanism are more vulnerable to falling over in the wind. Aluminum poles tend to last longer and require less maintenance than wood, which can rot and break, says Jordan Beckner of FiberBuilt Umbrellas. "Most people choose wood poles for looks only."
4. Pick a sturdy base. The bigger the canopy, the heavier the base needs to be. If the umbrella will be used with a table, a 50-pound base usually is sufficient, says Duane Salzwedel, casual furniture manager for the Bruce Company, a Wisconsin landscaping firm. Freestanding umbrellas need heavier bases of at least 80 pounds; 100 to 150 pounds is ideal.
5. Read the warranty. The standard warranty is one year, but some of the better models may be covered up to five years, Beckner says. And file away the toll-free number or website in case a part breaks.
-- Mary Forsell
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