Garden Parasols – The Ultimate Buying Guide
Those who love spending time outdoors will find garden parasols to be a useful necessity. These umbrellas are designed to block out UV radiation, providing protection for your garden or patio from the sun. Choose a garden parasol that resonates with you and brings a little extra flair to your garden area.
Garden parasols can be constructed from materials such as wood, aluminium, and stainless steel. You must further consider the various benefits and drawbacks of different materials and how this will affect your decision. Wooden parasols are a strong and sturdy choice, however, they require regular maintenance to remain in good condition. Compared to wooden parasols, aluminium parasols are more lightweight and easy to transport, however they lack the same level of robustness.
To make outdoor living as convenient as possible, some garden parasols have been designed with adjustable height, tilt, and LED lights. These features can enhance your outdoor experience by giving you more shade control and adding ambiance to evening gatherings.
If you take the necessary steps to care for and store your garden parasol correctly, it can remain in good condition for a long period of time. To keep your parasol in good condition, it is important to clean it regularly with a mild soap and water solution or an outdoor furniture cleaner. In order to keep your parasol safe from any weather damage, it is important to store it in a dry place.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Garden Parasol
Size and Shape
When selecting a garden parasol, the size and shape of the area you will be placing it in should be taken into account. If space is limited, opt for a smaller parasol; if you have a larger area, it might be a good idea to purchase one with a bigger circumference. Additionally, think about how the parasol’s shape will complement your surroundings. For example, you may want to choose a rectangular parasol to cast a wide shadow over the entire area, or just a round parasol to provide a smaller, more focused area of shade beneath the canopy.
Material
Material is of the utmost importance when picking a garden parasol, as it can influence the duration of its fade, wear, and tear. Search for parasols made from materials such as aluminum or wooden poles that have been designed to withstand wind and rain. Aluminum is light and easy to handle, while wood has a classic beauty that can enhance any outdoor decoration.
Style
When you are out shopping for a parasol, you may encounter cantilever, centre-pole, and wall-mount styles in a variety of textures and hues. Pick a style that will bring out the best of your outdoor decor and reflects your own personal style. The cantilever parasols create a cool, shady area to sit without blocking the views of the surrounding landscape. Centre-pole parasols are the perfect choice for larger areas like dining tables, providing a classic look and plenty of sun protection. Wall-mounted parasols can go anywhere since they don’t need a pole in the middle to hold them up.
UV Protection
During hot summer days, it is essential to ensure that the garden parasol offers enough shade to protect against dangerous UV rays. Search for umbrellas with a special coating or fabric that can shield up to 99.99% of UV rays.
Ease of Use
Consider a garden parasol with a crank handle for ease of assembly and disassembly. This will make it incredibly easy to use the umbrella, with no extra effort.
Additional Features
Think about the extra features that come with a garden parasol when deciding which one to buy. To be specific, certain umbrellas can be equipped with lighting or sound equipment, which can contribute to the ambiance and provide entertainment for your exterior area. Some may also have adjustable tilt angles, allowing you to adjust the angle of the umbrella as the sun moves throughout the day.
How to Choose the Right Size for Your Garden Parasol
Measure Your Outdoor Space
Prior to selecting a garden parasol, it is essential to take precise measurements of the area in which it will be used. This will assist you in choosing the correct size of the parasol that is suitable for your outdoor area. It is important to select a parasol that will match the aesthetic of your outdoor area without dominating it.
If the outdoor area you have is limited in size, you may wish to purchase a smaller parasol. A 2.5m – 3m parasol would provide a great amount of shade for a small balcony or patio. If you have a large garden or backyard, then you can choose to use bigger parasols.
Look At The Shape And Design
The shape and form of the parasol can also have an impact on its measurements. For instance, parasols with a rectangular or square shape may give a greater area of coverage than those with a round shape of the same measurement. Some designs may have adjustable heights or features that can be tilted to alter their overall size and coverage area.
When it comes to an umbrella, a cantilevered model would be a great option; its adjustability and flexibility in terms of position make it a great choice. They are great for giving shade without compromising the view, since they don’t need a center pole like traditional umbrellas.
Choose The Right Material
When picking out a garden umbrella, consider the material that will best withstand the weather conditions in your area. If you live in an area with strong winds, you’ll want to select a parasol with a heavy-duty frame and a canopy that won’t tear in the wind.
Aluminum frames have a distinct, lightweight feel that makes them easy to carry, and they are rust-proof and long-lasting. They are also simple to keep up, which makes them a great option for outdoor use. Wooden frames give a traditional look and feel, but require more work than aluminum frames.
Consider The Base
When selecting your garden parasol, make sure you pay attention to the base as much as the umbrella. The weight of the solid base will keep your parasol from wobbling in the wind. For added stability, consider purchasing a parasol with a weighted base or one that can be securely anchored to the ground.
If you plan on adjusting the position of your parasol often, then opt for one with wheels on the base, making it easier to move around.
Conclusion
Finally, garden parasols can be the perfect way to finish off any outdoor area. Not only do they provide relief from the sun, but they also add a touch of sophistication to your garden or patio. Before selecting a garden parasol, factors such as dimensions, material, appearance, and ease of use should be taken into account.
Shopping for garden parasols can be overwhelming, with options such as cantilever, center pole, and wall-mounted available. Each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, depending on your situation. It is essential to select the suitable type that will work with the size of your outdoor space and complement your way of life.
When selecting a garden parasol, think about the size that will cover the area you want to shade. Before you purchase the item, double check the measurements of the space where you plan to place it to ensure you select the correct size. It is important to consider the materials used in manufacturing the parasol, as this can affect its durability and longevity.
To give your garden parasol a stylish look, consider adding lights or decorations to create a cozy atmosphere during nighttime events or festivities. You can combine it with other outdoor furniture to create a consistent and unified aesthetic.
By using a garden parasol for shade, you can help keep your skin safe from the UV rays that can cause skin damage or even cancer. During hot summer days, it helps to keep you cool, making it the perfect way to spend time outdoors with family and friends.