No picnic table is complete without an umbrella. On those sweltering summer days, you still want to be able to enjoy the outdoors without getting too hot or, even worse, sunburned. Choosing the right umbrellas, however, is key, and it may be more difficult than you think. There are many different factors that you will need to keep in mind when trying to find a picnic table umbrella. Keep reading to learn more about these essential considerations.
Size
One of the most important factors to think about is the size of the umbrella you need. The ideal umbrella size is dependent on the size of the table. For tables with a diameter of between 30 and 36 inches, choose an umbrella that measures six to eight feet. Tables that measure 38 to 48 inches are best suited with a nine to 11-foot umbrella. If your table is between 54 to 60 inches, you should find an umbrella with a diameter of 11 feet or more.
Shape
The majority of patio umbrellas are round, but there are some other options that you can choose from. There are octagonal umbrellas, which are also known as market umbrellas. You can also find rectangular umbrellas. These are designed to provide shade for long, rectangular tables. Consider the size and shape of the table when trying to decide which umbrella shape to choose.
Types of Umbrellas
There are also a few different kinds of outdoor umbrellas to consider. Here are a few you should consider:
- Market: These umbrellas are octagonal and typically used by cafes and restaurants. They also have vented tops.
- Sunshades: This kind of umbrella looks like a round disc on a pole and is designed to shade only one person at a time. They are often used at hotels and poolside.
- Cantilever: Cantilever umbrellas are not inserted into a hole in the table. Instead, they are attached to a base, which can be placed near the table or any other area that needs to be shaded.
- Commercial-Grade: These are super durable umbrellas that are built to withstand the elements. They are typically used by restaurants and other outdoor venues.
Mechanics
Next, you will need to consider the mechanics of the umbrella; how do you open and close it? Some umbrellas have a pulley to open and close the umbrella and a pin to lock it in place. Others have a crank that automatically locks into place when it reaches its full height. Certain crank umbrellas also allow you to tilt the umbrella into a few different positions.
Materials
The frame of the umbrella is typically made of either wood, aluminum, or fiberglass. Aluminum is the most common material because it is lightweight and weather-resistant. Wood frame umbrellas come in a variety of options including teak, eucalyptus, and ipe. Fiberglass is a popular alternative to aluminum since it is flexible, lightweight, weather-resistant, and non-corrosive. The fabric part of the umbrella is typically a synthetic, UV-resistant material. They are available in a number of colors, patterns, textures, and finishes.
To see our whole selection of picnic table umbrellas, visit us at Outdoor School Furniture.
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