What Size Patio Umbrella Do I Need? A Complete Breakdown

Don’t laugh, but determining patio umbrella sizes is very important business, especially if you spend lots of time in your backyard.

Think about it: if you get a massive one, then it’ll be a pain to maintain and move around. Yet if you purchase a smaller one, you might find all your party guests comedically squeezed around the equivalent of a parasol. Nor do you want to buy a ton of smaller patio umbrellas to sprinkle around your property, because who has the money to do that?

You’re probably now wondering, “What size patio umbrella do I need?” If so, then read on. Here’s a thorough guide to help you out.

What Size Patio Umbrella Do I Need?

You’d probably love something straightforward here, but unfortunately, we’re not mindreaders. If we were, we’d be in a different business.

As with many things in life, the answer will depend on several factors. But do know that the most common size patio umbrella is nine feet, with a ballpark range of seven to 10 feet, so start there if you’re lost.

Otherwise, consider the following when you’re trying to narrow down what size patio umbrella to get.

Size of the Patio Area

Obviously, you’re limited to your patio size; while everyone would love to get a gigantic patio umbrella, it’s not always feasible.

And there’s such a thing as getting one that’s too big! Not only can it overwhelm your patio design, but it can also tip over if it’s one that slots into a table.

So measure your patio area where you plan on placing the umbrella. Consider the diameter or square footage of the space to ensure the umbrella adequately covers the area you want to shade and shelter.

In general, it’s a safe bet if you get an umbrella size that’s at least two feet wider than the area you want to cover.

Below are some other guidelines to follow:

• Small patio or bistro set: six to eight feet 
• Medium-sized patio with a dining set: nine to 11 feet
• Larger patio or outdoor seating area: 12+ feet

Number of People

Next, think about how many people you want to accommodate under the umbrella comfortably. What’s needed for two homebodies will vastly differ from what’s required of a large family that frequently entertains.

For just two people, you can get away with an umbrella that’s eight feet wide. You can even fit up to four people underneath this size.

Planning on accommodating four to six people? Then aim for an umbrella that’s at least 10 feet wide.

If you’re a moderate party animal and plan on shading over six people often, then the minimum size umbrella that’s ideal is 12 feet.

Real party animals will have to consider large patio umbrellas meant for commercial use. Or get a few smaller ones for more freedom of choice. They can also add points of interest in your yard.

Shape of the Umbrella

When you think of a patio umbrella, you might envision a larger version of the paper umbrellas they put in your tasty cocktails. While that’s certainly a popular shape, it’s not the only one.

Patio umbrellas come in various shapes, such as round, square, rectangular, or oval. The shape you choose may depend on the layout of your patio area.

In addition, based on your preferences, you can get away with smaller umbrellas if their shapes match your patio space. For example, if your patio is long and narrow, then a small rectangular umbrella can be sufficient.

If you’re trying to shade a table, then it’s best to match the shape of the umbrella to it. That way, you won’t get awkward spaces where one person is completely in the shade while another is half in it.

Height and Tilt

Modern patio umbrellas come with adjustable heights and tilting features. This is all well and good, but if you purchase an umbrella that’s too big, you’ll be swiping things off surfaces left and right.

The right patio umbrella size will depend on how high up you want it to be. And if you don’t want tilting features, then you’ll have more wiggle room for size choices.

Type of Furniture

Your patio furniture arrangement will affect what size umbrella you should buy too. Most people will want shade over a patio table, so we’ll start from there.

Pull out all of the chairs from your patio table, then add another two feet to the space measured. This is the minimum size patio umbrella needed.

Let’s take some real-world examples. If you have a 48-inch round table, then you’ll require a 10-foot patio umbrella at minimum.

Are you one of the lucky 10.4 million American houses that have a swimming pool? Then you probably want to place some comfy lounge chairs to relax on after taking a dip. To stay out of the sun, a small 7.5-foot patio umbrella placed between them will suffice.

Umbrella Styles

Two popular styles of patio umbrellas are cantilever and market. Cantilever umbrellas take up a lot more space, so you’ll need a roomy patio to accommodate them. However, they’re more stable and the offset pole opens up space for seating and socializing.

Now consider a center pole in the middle of things. This will save space, but it’ll feel claustrophobic for seating and socializing, especially if your patio’s tiny.

Know Your Outdoor Umbrella Sizes

Now you know the answer to the question, “What size patio umbrella do I need?”

Generally speaking, you’ll probably be set if you purchase a 9-foot patio umbrella. However, you want to make every penny spent worth it, so put a little effort into mulling over your situation.

By taking into account your patio area, the number of people using the umbrella, the specifics of the umbrella itself, and the type of furniture you have, you’ll be able to select the perfect product.

Have you sat down to think about the above factors and are ready to shop with Decor Outdoor? Then check out our patio umbrellas today.