Take the guesswork out of selecting the correct aluminum patio umbrella for your outdoor entertaining needs. Read a few simple tips on how to determine the correct size and material for your patio umbrella.
Determine Size And Fabric For Your Patio Umbrella
Sizing up patio umbrellas
The first thing to figure out when selecting a wood patio umbrella is the size of the umbrella you'll need. Simply determine how large a table area you need covered, and then chose the size umbrella that corresponds.
- 6-foot umbrella: for tables up to 30 inches in diameter.
- 7-foot umbrella: for tables up to 36 inches in diameter.
- 9-foot umbrella: for tables up to 48 inches in diameter (or a square table for four).
- 11-foot umbrella: for tables up to 60 inches in diameter (or a rectangular table for six).
Fabric comparisons
Most umbrellas are made from some combination of polyester fibers, including PVC weave, olefin, or acrylic. As they do not contain natural fibers, these fabrics do not allow the growth of mildew if kept clean and allowed to air dry thoroughly.
- Sunbrella. Composed of 100% solution-dyed acrylic fabric, this type of material withstands the elements while maintaining its bright finish. Sunbrella fabrics, treated during their production, repel water, but this quality may be reduced over time. These patio umbrellas carry a three-year warranty. Sunbrella patio umbrellas are made in the USA.
- Coolaroo's Open Weave: As the name indicates, this material consists of a porous knit. The free flow of air through the fabric creates a breathing effect, greatly reducing temperatures beneath the patio umbrella. This brand carries a one-year warranty.
- SolarVista: A bit lighter weight than Sunbrella, SolarVista locks colors into the acrylic fabrics so they don't wash out or fade. With a standard three-year warranty against fading, this brand is made in France.
- Olefin: Olefin is a weather and sunlight resistant, durable fabric that comes with a one-year warranty.
- Spun Poly: A special type of polyester prized for its color, smoothness, and durability, this material rivals cotton for flexibility and feel. Because of its strength and resistance to the elements, Spun Poly fabrics are used in nautical and camping equipment as well.
