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Patio Umbrellas Have It Made In The Shade

Mention patio umbrellas and invariably the first thought that comes immediately to mind is protection from the prospective onslaught of rain. Or for the eternal optimist, maybe one to top off a refreshing weekend cocktail.

The opposite, however, is true for patio umbrellas which more often than not prove themselves to be of far use as protection from the bright, blazing and enduring glare of the afternoon sun.

Come rain or come shine, patio umbrellas should be able stand up to the wear and tear of any of the various and sundry summer elements and with the right, stable base to anchor them. That should include the mildest of summer breezes to something somewhat more robust and stronger in nature, from nature.

As with most things in life, including patio umbrellas, the rule of thumb is that bigger is generally better in offering more protection in the shade.

Umbrellas are typically measured diagonally at thir widest points and while a smaller umbrella may be cheaper, more often than not you'll find they won’t offer the full area of shade protection you may desire, particularly if the umbrella's perch is from the middle of the table.

For convenience and portability, you may want to explore cantilever patio umbrellas.

Cantilever umbrellas are supported and ancored by offset posts from the side as opposed to typically being anchored through the hole in the center of the table.

When it comes to functionality, ease of opening is a consideration for patio umbrellas, made that much easier with the use of a remote control which means barely lifting a finger which somehow seems only right and just during those dog days of summer.

Canopy materials for patio umbrellas include PVC, a waterproof material, 100% UV protected and offering a variety of colors; acrylic which while waterproof and colorful may not offer 100% UV protection; polyester; and finally shade cloth which provide excellent shade and as a natural fabric breather easier.