SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A DARK OR LIGHT-COLOURED PATIO UMBRELLA?

Selecting a patio umbrella can be a pivotal decision for the overall look and atmosphere of your space. While the colour of the fabric certainly plays a role in its impact, opting for quality materials means you can achieve good air flow and sun protection regardless of the colour you choose.

The great news about choosing a patio umbrella colour is that it’s hard to go wrong. A dark-coloured umbrella is a great low-maintenance choice as it easily hides stains and can blend in with its surroundings, while lighter-coloured umbrellas can add a pop of colour and personality to your space. 

The team at Patioline can help you navigate your options, pick a colour and style, and help you choose the right umbrella or cantilever for your patio.

WHAT ARE THE BEST COLOURS FOR PATIO UMBRELLAS?

While the shade of umbrella you choose can depend on a variety of factors, there is no “wrong” colour. Consider the following factors to help you determine what shade or colour might best suit your patio. 

Dark vs. Light

Dark-coloured umbrellas come in a variety of shades and fabrics that can add versatility to any outdoor living area. One benefit of darker colours is that they often require less daily upkeep than lighter colours. Another benefit is that with quality materials like UV-resistant polyester, acrylics, and RECASENS fabrics, you won’t see fading any sooner with dark compared to light fabrics.

Lighter-coloured umbrellas offer a range of vibrant hues that make them stand out from the rest and bring brightness to any outdoor space. They may require more frequent cleaning, but with a quality fabric, you can be confident that they’ll stay looking great for years to come.

Earth Tones or Bold Colours?

Earth tones, such as brown, beige, and green, tend to have broad appeal as they blend with the natural environment. They work particularly well if you’re aiming for a rustic or earthy vibe in your outdoor area, or if you have a lot of wood or other natural materials in your decor.

If your decor is more traditional or you have a lot of colours or patterns in your space, a more muted colour might work best. Conversely, if you want to draw attention to the centrepiece of your patio or inject some fun and whimsy into your space, a bolder shade might be just the thing.

WHAT MATERIALS ARE USED FOR UMBRELLAS?

Material type is another important factor to consider for your patio umbrella. Here are some common materials you’re likely to encounter when shopping for an umbrella:

• Acrylic: Acrylic is a premium material that offers excellent UV resistance and colour retention. Umbrellas made from acrylic withstand exposure to the elements well and tend to look vibrant for years.
• Polyester: Polyester is frequently used in umbrellas. It’s lightweight and easy to fold up for storage, making it a great option for those who move their umbrella around regularly.
• RECacril: RECASENS makes high-performance fabrics from fade resistant solution-dyed acrylic fibers. These fabrics offer excellent dirt and water resistance and durability, perfect for an outdoor space. 

Other Factors to Consider

The material you choose impacts your umbrella’s durability and UV protection. 

• Durability: If you’re looking for an umbrella that will last for years, consider materials such as acrylic or polyester, which withstand frequent use and exposure to the elements.
• UV protection: Acrylic is the best material for UV resistance, making it a great option for areas with intense sunlight. However, other materials such as polyester also offer UV protection.

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF PATIO UMBRELLAS? 

While there are many different styles of patio umbrellas, 2 of the most common types are market umbrellas and cantilevers.

Market umbrellas are the traditional umbrella style that many people picture when they think of patio umbrellas. They have a center pole that extends from the base, which supports the umbrella canopy. These umbrellas often have venting features to help keep them stable on windy days, and they come in a range of sizes.

Cantilever umbrellas, also known as offset umbrellas, are a newer style that have gained popularity in recent years. Rather than being supported by a centre pole, these umbrellas are held up by a frame that extends from the side and top. This allows them to provide shade over a wide area or a table and chairs without a central pole in the middle. 

WHAT MATERIALS ARE USED FOR UMBRELLA POLES?

Patio umbrella frames are commonly made of fibreglass, metal, or wood. 

• Fibreglass is lightweight and durable, making it ideal for areas with strong winds or severe weather. 
• Metal frames, available in aluminum or steel, are strong and come in various finishes and colours. 
• Wooden frames add warmth and a natural feel but are heavier. 

WHICH SIZE & SHAPE OF PATIO UMBRELLA IS BEST?

Choosing the right size and shape of patio umbrella helps you get the right amount of shade for your outdoor space. As a general rule, the diameter of your umbrella should be about 2 to 2.5 feet larger than the diameter of the space you want to cover.In terms of shape, some of the most common types of patio umbrellas are octagonal, rectangular, and square. Square and rectangular umbrellas cover a large area and work well in symmetrical spaces with complementary straight lines. Octagonal umbrellas create a more traditional look and can be used in areas where space is limited.

FIND YOUR SUMMER SHADE SOLUTION

Patio umbrellas provide much-needed shade on hot summer days and add a pop of style and colour to your decor. Whether you want an umbrella that blends in or stands out, there’s an option out there for every taste. Visit the Patioline showroom to get expert help in choosing the perfect umbrella for your deck or patio. With a wide range of options and knowledgeable staff, you can find an umbrella that keeps you comfortable all season long and lasts for years to come.