6 tips to choosing the right garden umbrella
Jan 04, 2017 Exteriors
Text: Relin Hedly
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock
Do you plan to entertain friends and family in your spacious garden? Are you planning to purchase a garden umbrella for the same? Purushotham Venkatesh, Managing Director, Megavent Technologies Pvt Ltd, gives a checklist to make your purchase easier.
- Base: The most important factor to consider while purchasing a garden umbrella is its base. It should be strong enough to withstand winds and rain. As the garden umbrella has to remain firm on the ground, a strong base provides stability. Ensure that the base is sturdy to hold the umbrella in an upright position.
- Material: It is important to know the material used on the umbrella. A fibreglass umbrella is best for windy areas as they are flexible and bend slightly. Stainless steel and aluminium are other options. Although these are expensive, it is durable and can last for 4 – 5 years. Another advantage is that it does not rust.
- Fabric: Opt for a fabric that is resistant to weather and water. Also, the colour should not fade easily. Dickson is an imported fabric that can be considered as it does not wrinkle and last long among several other features. The stitches on this fabric do not come out easily, which can cause leakage during rains. Enquire with the manufacturer for other fabric options.
- Size and height: This factor mainly depends on the availability of your outdoor space. An oversized umbrella in a compact space will spoil its balance. Similarly, a small umbrella with too many people crowding under it, will again not serve the purpose. Therefore, keep the space available in mind while purchasing the umbrella. Height is another important factor. A 9’ umbrella is ideal for 4 people whereas a 12’ umbrella can accommodate 8 people. This factor will also determine how much shade it can provide.
- Types: Considering that the sun changes its direction, you may want to opt for the tilt version. This helps because you can change the angle as and when the direction of the sun changes without the hassle of moving your furniture like table and chairs around.
- Accessories: Some manufacturers offer accessories such as spring, lever knobs, etc, that need replacement every 4 – 5 years. If the product is well maintained, they may last longer. Check whether the manufacturer offer these accessories as it will save you the hassle of contacting the manufacturer for small replacements. It saves you time as well.
Looking for property portal?
About the author
Purushotham Venkatesh
Garden Umbrella ExpertRelated Articles
-
8 factors to keep in mind for water fountains
Nitin Kumar
Swimming Pool Expert
Jan 04, 2017 -
8 tips to make your home look different
ManMohan Khanna
Architect
Jan 04, 2017 -
10 easy-to-achieve designer touches for your garden
Nandita Kwatra
Plant Expert
Jan 04, 2017 -
7 factors to look out for while selecting awnings
Manoj Nayak
Proprietor
Jan 04, 2017
See comments (0)
Write a comment
