What are the best features of a patio umbrella?

A good indoor-outdoor flow is key for comfortable outdoor living, from garden or pool to lounge and living areas. Whether you're designing an area to enjoy family time outside or ensuring you have a great space for entertaining guests, the right furniture can make all the difference.

If you want to provide cover, but not box in your outdoor space, a patio umbrella is an economical and practical choice. Adding an element of shade will help make practical use of your yard in all seasons, from hot summer days or protection from changeable weather - whether that’s rain or shine.

Your shaded area needs to be functional but also look good - a quality outdoor umbrella gives you that diversity - you can choose whether you want it open or closed and they come in a range of colours, shapes and sizes, giving you the freedom to get the best fit for you. The following are features of a patio umbrella, along with examples of spaces that have been enhanced through the addition of outdoor shade.

Choosing the umbrella canopy

This is the most important part of the patio umbrella. Canopy fabric needs to be fade-resistant and made to withstand the sun’s harsh UV rays. If you use fabric with the right quality, you can ensure longevity of your colour choice, without worrying about discolouration from the sun. 

Decide on the right size for your space

When it comes to sizing up your umbrella to complement your outdoor living space, you have many different options, with single, double, triple and quadruple canopies available. If you are unsure about what would work with your space enlist the help of a shade designer, who will offer you free expert help. They will be able to create a shade plan that is specific to you. Get in touch with the shade experts for a layout plan.

There are different types of market or patio umbrellas - cantilever, centre pole, offset or wall mounted system. Here's a quick list of ideas to consider when you are shopping for your umbrella:

Wall Mounted Umbrellas for tight spaces

Wall Mounted Umbrellas are perfect for compact spaces. These clever cantilever umbrellas keep your living space clear of mounts and poles - making them ideal for those considering shade options for smaller garden areas, courtyards or balconies.

Center Pole Umbrellas to make a statement

The center pole umbrella is ideal for seated table areas and are a popular choice for commercial venues such as bars, cafes and restaurants.  A stylish one-pole umbrella can add character and class to outdoor spaces, positioned in the centre of your table, this is the most traditional patio umbrella.

Cantilever Umbrella

And, of course, we have the cantilever umbrella. This is an elegant and practical option giving shade away from the pole, allowing ease of movement under the canopy. The latest umbrella on the block, they are fast becoming the most popular option.

Okay, but is a cantilever easy to use?

Ease of use needs to be considered when choosing your patio umbrella. Is it easy to operate - to put up and down? Make sure you take a look at how it works; a supplier should have a video that explains how to use their umbrella. Things to keep in mind are the quality and strength of the materials used. Often a string or pulley-based system can perish outdoors, leaving the opening mechanism weak and brittle.

Umbrella storage and protection

Does it come with a good quality cover and is it easy to put on and take off? The great thing about umbrellas is they can be removed when not needed, which is handy if you have a multi-purpose outdoor area, or want to use the space in a different way. Also great to store if you don’t use your outdoor patio in the colder winter months.

Umbrella base and mounting options

The base of the patio umbrella is also important. The base needs to hold the umbrella in place to protect against high winds and not to tip over or present a danger to those around it. Also, you should consider it placing in a way so as not to be a tripping hazard. Look for a base that won’t tip over and will support the weight of the umbrella. For an alternative, effective solution, consider fixing the umbrella via bolts into concrete or to a deck with a poured concrete ground fixing.

For more information on patio umbrella options and features, browse our umbrella range to find the best shade for your space.