As a homeowner with a backyard, as much as we all love a sunny day, we also need some shade. For proper shade, safety and protection, you need to pick the best patio umbrella for your cherished backyard space. How to choose a suitable sun umbrella is very important：

01 Only Use Table Umbrellas on Level Patios

Table umbrellas are a combination of a patio table with a hole in the center and a properly placed umbrella, the table umbrella cannot easily be moved, and it requires a perfectly level surface to prevent wobbling. That makes this combination most suitable for level patios with plenty of open, unused space, large deck spaces, pool sides, and other highly developed areas.

02 Consider Mobile Shade

Freestanding umbrellas are the best patio umbrella for all-around yard protection. You can move them to wherever kids, guests, or you personally want to sit, which makes them ideal for larger yards with lots of open space. However, they don’t have as much support as table umbrellas and will tilt over easily, so you will need to focus on maintenance and always take time to put the umbrella away when you are finished.

03 Get a Patio Umbrella That is Larger Than Your Sitting Area

For proper shade space, you need a table patio umbrella that’s larger than the table or area that you are sitting at (otherwise, at eye level, you won’t get much sun protection). As a general rule look for umbrellas that are a couple feet wider than the table you have.

04 Pick a Durable Fabric Designed for Outdoor Use

Patio umbrella fabrics need to be lightweight, strong, stain proof and easily fold-able. That’s a tall order, but there are fabrics out there that can handle it.

05 Consider Weather Conditions

Wind is the diehard enemy of patio umbrellas everywhere: If there is a lot of wind in your area, choose a design that uses more flexible materials. Aluminum is a strong material that resists moisture damage.

06 Use a Base Weight for a Stable Umbrella

The base of the umbrella may be sold separately, and must be the proper weight (typically weight in pounds). A table umbrella typically needs a base around 20-40 pounds for proper anchoring. A freestanding umbrella, however, will need a heavier base from 50 to 80 pounds, based on the size of the umbrella. Don’t skimp in this area!

Come to GOODWIN to customize the sun umbrella that suits your backyard, whether it is a centra umbrella or a cantilever umbrella.