Patio Umbrellas For The Backyard BBQ

You might think that patio umbrellas are just like one another but there are some key features that you will want to consider when thinking about buying a new one.

Whether you’re the backyard BBQ chef or simply a guest it’s always much more pleasant living outdoors away from the direct intensity of the sun.

What Features Should I Consider?

Frame

Wood or Aluminum – Wood looks the part and is best for something that’s going to be permanently in situ. The disadvantage of wood in the weight so if you’re looking for something more portable then check out aluminum frames.

Lift

How does the umbrella go up and down. It could be a simple push and click into place or a more elaborate pulley system where you pull on a rope and when the umbrella is up, secure it with a pin. The most sophisticated is a crank system where you turn a level located on the shaft of the umbrella, a must for the larger heavier models.

Tilt

This will help maximize the amount of shade that your umbrella delivers and there are three options:-

1. Auto – Uses the crank to gently tilt.
2. Push Button – Push the button in, the umbrella will tilt and release the button at the desired angle.
3. Rotation – Tilts by gently rotating one of the ribs.

Fabric

Most fabrics are focused on durability and colorfastness when exposed to the elements. There are 5 main fabrics to choose from:-

• SolarVista is 100% 7 oz solution-dyed acrylic fabric designed to lock in colors. It’s water repellent as a result of a finish that is applied to the fabric. Normal wear and usage will reduce the effectiveness of this finish as will cleaning the fabric. SolarVista patio umbrellas, if kept clean, will not mildew.
• Olefin is a weather & sunlight resistant durable 8 oz solution dyed fabric.
• Spun Poly is a type of polyester designed for high strength, uniform quality, colorfastness and smoothness.
• Sunbrella is 100% solution-dyed acrylic fabric which because of the dying process, color can't wash out or fade. The fabric has a water repellent finish that if kept clean will not mildew. Sunbrella fabrics have been tested and proven to provide up to 98% UV protection from the harmful effects of the sun depending on depth of color and it is also a slightly heavier fabric than those above.
• Coolaroo's "Open Weave" is an open-weave knitted outdoor fabric containing millions of tiny holes that allow air to flow freely through. The benefit is that it keeps you cool by reducing temperatures under the umbrella by up to 32% versus direct sunlight yet at the same time providing protection for the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Shade Size

In today’s climate and sensitivity to skin cancer and sun burn you will want to consider the size of the umbrella and ultimately what shade size it provides. Your shade size should be at least 5 feet more than the dining area you want to protect.

You would expect the quoted size of an umbrella to equal the diameter but this is not the case. Most manufacturers measure the size from one end, over the top and down to the other end.

As a general rule of thumb:-

1. 30 inch table will need a 6–7ft umbrella
2. 36 inch table will need 7.5–8ft
3. 48 inch table will need a 9ft umbrella
4. 54-72 inch table will need between 9.5-11ft
5. up to 96 inches will require a 13ft umbrella

Offset Patio Umbrellas

These have to be the ultimate in patio umbrellas because they offer great flexibility and convenience. The main points are that they are free standing so there’s no need for the extra cost of an umbrella stand and also because the pole is to one side, you have the freedom to position the umbrella where you want to maximize shade or simply to ensure that the view isn’t interrupted. Perfect for the barbecue chef!

Where Can I Buy My Umbrella?

You can buy online from the following stores and have your purchase delivered direct to your door:-

Patio Umbrellas - The largest range under one roof with a good selection of accessories too. Lots of information, next day shipping.

Patio Furniture USA - Majors on furniture and has a complementary range of umbrellas available for next day shipping.

BBQGuys.com - Lots of umbrellas and everything for your patio.

Umbrella Care

When not in use the best way to protect your umbrella from the elements is with a cover and all the stores above provide covers.

Related Pages:-

More Patio Furniture Information
Hammocks
Dining Sets
Solar Lighting
Info About Smokers
Info About BBQ Grills
Barbecue Accessories and Gift Ideas
Reasons NOT to buy Patio Heaters

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