Frequently Asked Questions

Which style of umbrella is best for me?
If cost is a factor, Standard Crank & Tilt Patio Umbrellas are less expensive than Market Umbrellas. Additionally, solid fabrics are less expensive than striped fabrics. Umbrellas should be made to match your existing decor, in elegant, contemporary, or fun styles. For example, Pagoda-shaped umbrellas are a distinctive style, perfect for certain decorating situations.

If your umbrella will be used in a windy environment, you might want to consider a Market Umbrella, which comes with a vent for extra protection. The standard crank & tilt umbrella can have a vent added for an additional cost. Vents allow moving air to escape from underneath, making a more stable umbrella. Of course, if you are buying umbrellas that will have to withstand weather conditions constantly (and not be taken down and set up again), Commercial Umbrellas are the best choice.

What are the differences between Patio, Beach, and Commercial Umbrellas?
Patio Umbrellas are generally for residential use on, as the name suggests, a patio or deck. Patio Umbrellas usually are placed in an outdoor table with a hole to accommodate the umbrella pole. Most often they require a base for support. Patio Umbrellas may be pop-ups (that is, hand opened) manual tilt, or auto-tilt. The frames for Patio Umbrellas usually are made of aluminum. They have metal bell caps as finials.

Market Umbrellas are more expensive than Standard Crank & Tilt Patio Umbrellas. They are used in public areas such as restaurants or cafes as well as in homes. Market Umbrellas may have either a single or double vent on the top. Frames may be aluminum with crank and auto-tilt, or wood with pulley and rope. Like other Patio Umbrellas, Market Umbrellas require a base.

Beach Umbrellas are distinguished by their poles, which are pointed for use in the sand. Frames may be aluminum or wood, but Beach Umbrellas never feature a tilt so they can withstand windy conditions. Beach Umbrellas can come with a matching bag for convenience in carrying. They have plastic bell caps as finials.

Commercial Umbrellas are constructed with heavy-duty aluminum frames for durability. They come standard in silver color frames with other colors on request.

Which size of umbrella is best for me?
Umbrellas differ not only in their diameter, but also in the number of panels and ribs. A 6 ft. pop-up has 6 panels and ribs. All 7.5 ft., 9 ft., and 11 ft. umbrellas have 8 panels and ribs. The 8.5 ft. standard has 12 panels and ribs.

In choosing an umbrella size for home use, it is important to measure how much room is available on your patio or deck. Obviously, the larger the umbrella, the more shade it provides. However, when choosing an 11 ft. umbrella (the maximum size), be sure your table can accommodate its 2” pole diameter and its one-piece shaft. It does not break down for shipping and storage like other sizes.

What is the best way for me to lengthen the life of my umbrella?
Our umbrellas are made from highly durable frames and fabrics. They should provide continuous use of many years.

However, the most important thing you can do to extend its life is to always crank down your umbrella when not in use. Store your umbrella in a safe place in off-season or during inclement weather.

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