Refining and enhancing your shade choices
You figured out what you’re generally looking for in an outdoor umbrella. Now it’s time to refine your decision by looking closer at the variations available. If something is not integrated into the models you’re considering, you may be able to find attachments to provide that capability.
Additional Features
Standard market umbrellas are relatively static, which can be challenging as the sun travels across the sky or you move furniture. Some umbrellas, however, offer additional dynamic features that can resolve these shade problems.
Multi-Canopy
Some contemporary offset umbrellas have modular designs that allow you to add more than one canopy. Typically, two or four canopies shade multiple areas when floor space is at a premium. These adaptable deck umbrellas are great for outdoor restaurants and cafes where dining tables are closely situated.
SHOP MULTI-CANOPY UMBRELLAS
Tilt
Certain center post parasols include a crank auto tilt function that enables you to angle the canopy shade. This allows you to effectively block the sun throughout the day, without repositioning the umbrella. There are also manual tilting umbrellas with push button release. See “What are the parts of a patio umbrella?” in the first section of this buying guide to learn about different tilt mechanisms. Tilting outdoor umbrellas are less stable than static ones, and are not recommended for high use or commercial installations.
Swivel
Most cantilever umbrellas have 360 degree rotation capability. This allows you to cover a much larger area, without ever moving the base (not even a choice if you have a mounted base). This is handy if you continually move about during the day and want to remain in the shade.
Vents
Most large outdoor umbrellas have vented canopies that allow air to flow between the layers of fabric. They help stabilize shades in windy or gusty conditions. A canopy may have one or more vents or none at all.
Valances
Some garden umbrellas have canopies with decorative valances around the edge. These flaps may be straight, scalloped or a special design. They serve no functional purpose and are simply aesthetic.
Accessories
There are other items that you should consider when ordering a patio umbrella.
Umbrella Lights
Consider adding patio umbrella lights, if your outdoor entertaining continues into the evening. LED lights generate far less heat than traditional bulbs and can be built into the ribs or hubs of modern umbrellas. Or, purchase them separately and mount them on the underside or perimeter of the canopy. Some clamps around the pole of market umbrellas or an extension rod in the hub of offset shades. Many sizes, configurations and colors of umbrella lights are available, so you can customize the ambiance you want to create.
Heaters
Some commercial and high-end residential deck umbrellas have heaters integrated into their design to optimize space and comfort. These pivoting infrared devices typically attach to support struts and emit directional heat to warm the area immediately below the canopy. The heaters’ electrical lines are concealed within the pole or mast and often share their power supply with a lighting system.
Speakers
A few luxury umbrellas even have Bluetooth™ speakers that can connect to your mobile device and play your favorite songs. They may also include Wi-Fi and USB charging so you don’t have to be disconnected just because you’re outdoors.
Protective Cover
A weather-proof cover is a “must-have” accessory for any outdoor umbrella. Your shade takes a beating during the heat of the day and in the summer months, so it deserves the protection of a cover during its downtime. Most covers are made from heavy-duty canvas fabrics but there are hard-shell versions too. See the maintenance and storage section of this guide to learn why a cover is critical to extending the life of your umbrella.
Completing a holistic assessment
At this point, you’ve done most of the heavy lifting in evaluating your patio umbrella needs. The next two sections of our comprehensive guide provide a few last heads-up things to be aware of so there are no surprises and tips to ensure your shade investment endures.
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