Considerations for Choosing the Right Cantilevered Umbrella
Choosing the Right Cantilevered Umbrella
The perfect complement to your patio and pool area is a cantilevered umbrella that can be easily positioned anywhere in your backyard to provide optimal shade. You’re not relegated to using it over your patio table, which means cantilevered umbrellas offer you the highest versatility. That’s because the pole extends off to the side with the umbrella portion overhanging your desired space. However, it’s important to choose one that’s sturdy and can withstand the elements.
Here are some important factors to take into consideration when buying a cantilevered umbrella:
Base
What’s an umbrella without a good base? Go too cheap or too small and you’ll be lacking the stability and strength you need to support the rest of the umbrella. Think of the worst days, not the best. That means you should choose a base that will support your umbrella in the case of high winds. Your base should allow you to easily position the umbrella for optimum shade, ensuring it stays in position no matter what. If you have a very long pole, you need a bigger base. Measure the pole’s diameter to match it with the right base if you’re buying the two separately. It’s best to buy a combo so you can take the guesswork out of the whole process.
Size
It’s a no-brainer: size determines the amount of shade you’ll get. Think about how much space you have plus how much shade you’d ideally like. If you go with an umbrella that’s too big for the space, there’ll be overcrowding. If it’s too small, you won’t get adequate shade. Those with small children, elderly family members, or anyone who’s sensitive to the sun should get a big enough umbrella so as to fit everyone comfortably. Houzz recommends choosing an umbrella that’s table width plus an extra two feet per side.
Height
For the pole itself, get one that’s high enough so that you won’t hit your head and have adequate space to move around. However, you don’t want to go so high that you lose the shade you require. It’s best to stick with a height of eight feet; go below seven feet and you’re compromising shade and comfort.
Material
Go with fiberglass rather than aluminum bases because fiberglass will bend with the wind, not break. The fabric you select must be weather resistant to UV rays and water. Cutting corners on quality now will pretty much guarantee you’ll have to buy another umbrella next season. Better to pony up a bit more now and opt for the best material to ensure a long life span for your cantilevered umbrella.
Once you’ve found the perfect cantilevered umbrella for your patio, you may realize something’s missing: a pool! Now’s the time to start planning for your inground or above ground pool.
