Shade

Do you remember when your choices for outdoor shade included only one or two umbrella styles? Not anymore. The umbrella has come along way in the last ten years. Some companies are turning back time and giving us updated versions of the favorite market umbrella.

Location, location, location...

While other manufactures are taking shade in new directions we never imagined, choosing the right umbrella for your space requires some attention. Here is a questions that should be asked before you start shopping:

What area do I want to provide shade for?

Are you thinking of putting a umbrella in your dining table? You then might want to think about a traditional market umbrella with a good sturdy base. Depending on the circumference of your table, ensure your umbrella is large enough to accommodate your setting needs. A table that seats four people is going to need a much smaller umbrella than a table that seats six or more people.

Here is another question you should ask yourself:

Do I need more shade at certain times of the day?

If yes, you should ensure you invest in a umbrella that has the ability to tilt. There is nothing worse than a fabulous luncheon or early afternoon dinner with half the table squinting because they are looking directly into the sun.

Size matters!

You are going to find most market umbrellas to be between 5' and 11' in diameter. For the most part, it has been my experience that these umbrellas will give you enough shade to comfortably and aesthetically accommodate a table from 2-8 persons. If you require more shade then perhaps you need to look beyond the market umbrella toward a Shade Sail or Cantilevered umbrella.

Style and color

Your umbrella shouldn't be an after thought. If it's in a prominent place, it's going to be one of the first things people notice when they walk out to your outdoor room. Your umbrella should be apart of the design concept you have created for your space. That includes the material for the pole, base and the fabric you choose for the frame.




The lifespan of your umbrella is going to be determined by the way you treat it.

Consider the location you will be using your umbrella in. Wind, rain, sea salt, snow etc... These factors are all going to play a part in the longevity of your umbrella. If you leave your umbrella up during the Santa Ana winds and then it blows into the neighbors yard, it will, quite simply, break. The secret to your umbrella's longevity is this:

Put your umbrella down and tie it off not only during in-climate weather but when it's not in use.

Many of the better manufactures have already anticipated your needs and will include or sell covers for your umbrella.