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How to Choose Outdoor Patio Umbrellas: A Complete Guide

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How to Choose Outdoor Patio Umbrellas: A Complete Guide
By Jordan Henrie
·
February 8, 2024

As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, the allure of outdoor living beckons. At RST Brands, we understand that creating the perfect outdoor oasis is about blending functionality with style, and a key element in achieving this balance is selecting the right patio umbrella. 

Whether you're looking to update your space or are in the market for your first outdoor umbrella, this comprehensive guide will steer you through the essentials, ensuring your patio is both beautiful and practical.

Finding the Right Size for Your Outdoor Space

When it comes to patio umbrellas, size does matter. The right size umbrella ensures adequate shade and enhances the aesthetics of your outdoor living area. 

To determine the ideal size, consider the area you wish to shade. A general rule of thumb is that the umbrella should extend over the dining table or seating area by at least 2 feet on each side. 

For instance, our Portofino® Commercial 12ft Sunbrella® Outdoor Umbrella is perfect for larger spaces, providing ample shade for dining sets or lounge areas.


Our Portofino® Comfort 10ft Resort Umbrella is a poolside must-have.

The Superiority of Olefin Fabric

When it comes to durability and performance, olefin fabric stands out as a top choice for patio umbrellas. Known for its strength and colorfastness, olefin offers excellent resistance to fading, staining, and wear, making it a smart investment for your outdoor space. Not only does it withstand the elements, but it also maintains its vibrant color, ensuring your patio looks great season after season.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Sunbrella® Umbrellas: Keeping You Cool and Stylish in the Summer

Reiterating the benefits of olefin, its standout performance and durability make it an excellent choice for outdoor umbrellas. Its ability to resist harsh weather conditions, coupled with its eco-friendly production process, positions olefin as a superior fabric that doesn't sacrifice style for sustainability.

Height Ranges and Importance

The standard height range for patio umbrellas is typically between 8 and 10 feet. This height is crucial as it provides enough clearance for comfortable use while ensuring adequate shade. When selecting your umbrella, consider the scale of your space and the height of any surrounding structures to maintain a balanced and functional outdoor area.

Color Your World: Selecting the Perfect Shade

Choosing the right color for your patio umbrella can transform the look and feel of your outdoor space. Consider colors that complement your existing decor or opt for a bold shade to make a statement. Lighter colors reflect heat, making them ideal for hot climates, while darker tones offer a contemporary look but may fade faster in direct sunlight.

Keeping Your Umbrella Pristine

Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your patio umbrella. Here are some essential tips:

  • Clean the fabric periodically with mild soap and water.
  • Store the umbrella in a dry, shaded place during off-seasons.
  • Use a protective cover to guard against weather and debris.

Choosing the Right Umbrella Shape

At RST Brands, selecting the perfect patio umbrella shape for your outdoor space is straightforward, with our offerings of both square and round patio umbrellas. The shape you choose is pivotal in achieving a cohesive look and functional shade coverage. 

Round umbrellas, like our Modular Outdoor 10' Sunbrella® Round Umbrella, bring traditional elegance and a soft, inviting ambiance, ideal for those who cherish timeless beauty in their outdoor settings. 

In contrast, square umbrellas, like our Portofino® Commercial 12ft Sunbrella® Outdoor Umbrella, cater to a modern aesthetic with their clean lines and efficient coverage, perfect for contemporary spaces needing protection over larger areas.

Securing Your Umbrella from Wind

In the face of strong winds, the stability of your patio umbrella hinges significantly on the base it stands on. 

At RST Brands, we emphasize the importance of investing in a heavy-duty base to safeguard your outdoor shade solution. A robust base not only grounds your umbrella but also significantly enhances its resistance to gusty conditions, ensuring that your outdoor comfort is uninterrupted and your umbrella remains undamaged.

For optimal protection and longevity of your patio umbrella, we advocate for always closing and covering your umbrella when it's not in active use. This practice is essential not only as a precaution against sudden weather shifts but also as a means to safeguard your investment from the elements. A cover adds an extra layer of defense, keeping your umbrella in pristine condition and ready to provide shade and comfort on sunny days.

Market vs. Patio Umbrellas: Finding Your Perfect Match

While the terms "market umbrellas" and "patio umbrellas" are often used interchangeably, it's important to understand the distinction to make the best choice for your outdoor space. Market umbrellas are traditionally designed to fit through a table's center, providing a classic look and direct shade. 

On the other hand, patio umbrellas, particularly offset (or cantilever) umbrellas, are designed for versatility and adaptability in outdoor settings.

At RST Brands, we specialize in offering offset-style patio umbrellas. These umbrellas are perfect for those seeking flexible shading solutions without the constraints of a central pole. Our selection is designed to cater to a variety of outdoor spaces, ensuring that no matter your patio layout, we have an umbrella to meet your needs. Offset umbrellas from RST Brands offer the freedom to shade large areas, including dining tables, lounge sets, or poolside spaces, without interfering with your setup.

Elevating Outdoor Spaces: Discover Your Perfect Patio Umbrella with RST Brands

Armed with the insights from this comprehensive guide, you're now ready to elevate your outdoor space into a stylish sanctuary that reflects your personal style and meets your functional needs. 

At RST Brands, we're passionate about blending form with function to create outdoor living spaces that aren't just about seeking shade but are about enriching your life with style, comfort, and lasting memories.

Our curated collection of high-quality, durable patio umbrellas is crafted to cater to diverse tastes and requirements, ensuring that you find the perfect match to complement your outdoor furniture and lifestyle. Whether you're revamping your garden, decking out your patio, or just looking for that perfect piece to complete your outdoor retreat, we've got you covered.

Choosing the right patio umbrella is a journey towards transforming your outdoor area into an inviting oasis where every moment is savored, and every day feels like an escape. With RST Brands, let's embark on this journey together, turning your vision into reality and making your patio a haven of comfort and style.

Dive into our selection today and take the first step towards embracing outdoor living at its finest with RST Brands. Let us help you craft a space where every detail adds to the harmony and beauty of your home, making it the perfect backdrop for making memories that last a lifetime.

Related Questions

How often should I replace my patio umbrella?
With proper care, RST Brands patio umbrellas, especially those made with olefin fabric, can last several years. Regularly check for wear or fading. If you notice significant deterioration, it might be time to consider a replacement from our collection.

Can I repair my patio umbrella if it gets damaged?
If your patio umbrella sustains damage, like torn fabric or a broken mechanism, RST Brands offers support. Contact our customer service with the damage details, and we'll assist with repair options, including replacement parts.

Are there eco-friendly options for patio umbrellas?
Yes, we offer eco-friendly patio umbrellas made with materials like olefin fabric, combining durability with minimal environmental impact. Browse our selection to find a sustainable option that fits your outdoor space.

How do I choose the right base for my patio umbrella?
The right base ensures your umbrella's stability. We suggest a base weighing at least 50 pounds for umbrellas up to 9 feet. For larger models, opt for a heavier base. For advice tailored to our umbrellas, visit our website or contact customer service.

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