Enjoy the Outdoors Under a Stylish Patio Umbrella
Patio Umbrellas for Your Pool and Patio
Patio umbrellas provide respite from the sun and can make spending time outdoors more enjoyable. With patio umbrellas, it’s easy to create an inviting, shady area in your backyard, beside your pool, or on your deck or patio. Patio umbrellas come in a variety of sizes, styles and materials, so you can choose one with features that meet your specific needs.
Choosing the Right Size
To determine the best size for your patio umbrella, you first need to measure the area or table that you want to shade. Be sure to consider the space required to accommodate comfortable seating. Then, add 2 to 2-1/2 feet to each side to determine the canopy diameter that’ll provide just the right amount of shade. A common size for patio umbrellas is 9 feet in diameter, which suits tables up to 36 inches in diameter. Extra-large tables should have extra-large patio umbrellas. For a small bistro table, you could use a 6-1/2-foot umbrella.
Remember the Base
As a rule, the diameter of the base for your patio umbrella shouldn’t be more than 1/4 inch wider than your umbrella pole. Also, it’s important to choose the right weight for your patio umbrella stand. If it’s not heavy enough, your umbrella won’t withstand wind. You can adjust the weight of some umbrella bases by adding sand or water.
Choosing the Right Shape
Patio umbrella shape can enhance your outdoor space. For example, round umbrellas are a good choice if the area or table you’re shading is symmetrical. The absence of angles can give the umbrella a softer, more inviting feeling to welcome guests.
Square umbrellas are another good choice for symmetrical areas. They often have an elegance that can heighten the effect of contemporary décor. They can also enhance the sense of balance in squared decks and patios.
Rectangular umbrellas can be great choices for long or oval tables, as square or round umbrellas large enough to cover such tables might be overbearing.
Cantilever Patio Umbrellas
Cantilever umbrellas are popular because they’re supported from the side rather than the middle, offering an open view that’s unobstructed by a pole. You can create your own piece of paradise just feet from your back door by placing an outdoor sofa, a patio chaise lounge or a recliner under the generous protection of your cantilever umbrella.
Lighting for Nighttime Relaxation
Don’t limit enjoyment of your patio umbrella to daylight hours. Some umbrellas come with great features to help you entertain in the evening — such as built-in LED lights that use rechargeable lithium batteries. A solar panel can automatically charge the batteries during the day, or you can power them up anytime with a standard AC (alternating current) adapter.
With a patio umbrella from Lowe’s, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying hours in your favorite outdoor space with friends and family. Visit Lowes.com to plan your outside entertainment area today.
