The Ultimate Patio Umbrella Buyers Guide

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Patio umbrellas are a vital part of your outdoor decor and are among the most desired outdoor furniture accessories to complete your patio’s look. They come in various sizes, styles, weights, shapes, and forms. If you’ve ever purchased a cheap personal umbrella, you know that you’re in for a surprise. In the same way, investing in a quality outdoor umbrella will ensure that your time is spent enjoying conversations with close friends instead of chasing umbrellas across the yard.

To be sure you’re not disappointed with your next patio umbrella, check out this comprehensive Patio Umbrella Buyers Guide that will teach you everything about patio umbrellas! You’ll be an outdoor umbrella expert when you’re done with it!

Table of Contents (Click to Jump to Section)

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Section A. Patio Umbrella Dimensions

  1. What Size Patio Umbrella Should I Buy?
  2. Patio Umbrella Pole Diameter
  3. Umbrella Base

Section B. Types of Umbrellas

  1. Tilting Umbrellas
  2. Cantilever Umbrellas
  3. Table & Free-Standing Umbrellas
  4. Ventilation

Section C. Fabrics & Materials

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How to Measure Patio Umbrella Size
  2. What Size Patio Umbrella for 48″ Table?
  3. What Size Patio Umbrella for 42″ Table?
  4. What Size Umbrella for 54″ Table?
  5. Who Makes the Best Patio Umbrellas?
  6. Patio Umbrella Wood vs. Aluminum

Section A. Patio Umbrella Dimensions

1. What Size Patio Umbrella Should I Buy?

The size of your umbrella depends on several factors. How much space do you need? What’s your budget? How much space do you have available? These are all things that must be considered before purchasing an outdoor umbrella. Choosing an oversized umbrella will be overwhelming and throw off the balance of your outdoor arrangement.

Your umbrella should typically extend over your dining table by 2 feet on each side. If you have a 4-foot rounded table, this means you need an umbrella that measures 8 feet in diameter. 

  • Table = 30-36 inches — Umbrella = 6-8 feet
  • Table = 38-48 inches — Umbrella = 9-11 feet
  • Table = 54-60 inches — Umbrella 11 feet or larger

2. Patio Umbrella Pole Height and Diameter

Your patio umbrella pole diameter is an important measurement to check for because it’s crucial to the stability of your umbrella. For maximum umbrella stability, you want your umbrella pole diameter and base (opening) diameter to be as close as possible while still fitting. We looked through our collection of patio umbrellas and found that most had a pole diameter of at least 1.5″ and some went up to 2.5″. If you choose an umbrella with a pole diameter of 1.5″, you want the base diameter to be at least 1.5″ and, at the most, 1.75″. As a rule of thumb, your base diameter should not be more than .25″ larger than your umbrella pole.

Pro Tip: Beach umbrellas are slimmer than patio umbrellas, make sure you double check before purchasing!

If you can buy your patio umbrella in person, we highly recommend doing so. Being able to pick out an umbrella that’s the perfect fit for your patio while also finding the right base will make your life much easier in the long run.

The height of your umbrella is another important factor. You want enough clearance so that taller individuals don’t have to stoop down when they are under the umbrella. Still, it can’t be so high that the shade covers your dog instead of you! In general, you want your umbrella to be at least 7 feet tall. You can also look for patio umbrellas with tilting and cantilever functions to adjust where the shade lands. We’ll talk about that in the section below.

3. Umbrella Bases

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The base of your umbrella is one of the most important factors. If your base is not heavy enough, your umbrella will flop and fly in the wind. Below you can find the suggested Umbrella Base Weight Recommendations:

  • 20 lb. Base – Used for smaller table umbrellas. Only suitable for 6′ table umbrellas.
  • 30 lb Base – Used for 6.5′ table umbrellas.
  • 40 lb Base – Minimum weight for freestanding umbrellas up to 4.5′. It can be used for table umbrellas up to 7.5′.
  • 50 lb Base – Accommodates up to 7.5′ free-standing outdoor umbrellas. It can also be used for table umbrellas up to 9′.
  • 70+ lb Base – These bases can be used for most free-standing umbrellas up to 11′. If you live in areas that experience high winds, you should consider a commercial cantilever outdoor umbrella.

Santa Ana winds can wreak havoc on a backyard party. You don’t want to be the host that has to stand on the base of the patio umbrella every time the wind picks up. Do yourself a favor and order one of these weighted patio umbrella bases that won’t move!

Section B. Types of Umbrellas

1. Tilting Umbrellas

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The 11′ Octagon Collar Tilt Umbrella from Treasure Garden

As the sun moves, the angle changes the projection of the shade. This can be a hassle. You don’t want to play musical chairs and have everyone rearrange their seats every 30 minutes to remain in the shade. Bright idea, move the umbrella instead of the party! A tilting patio umbrella lets you adjust the angle of the umbrella. They’re definitely worth the money.

2. Cantilever Umbrellas

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Cantilever Patio Umbrellas are similar to tiling umbrellas but offer increased range of motion. They are the deluxe version when it comes to patio umbrellas. Cantilever umbrellas are the commercial models used to furnish Five Star HotelsThey are extremely sturdy and capable of handling anything that Mother Nature can throw at them.

Cantilevers are the ultimate option for those who want the best of the best. Not only is the base very heavy, everything from the frame to the fabric of the umbrella fan is made of heavy-duty materials to prevent tearing. Cantilever umbrellas offer full functionality, allowing you to move your umbrella up and down and side to side. The 10′ Deluxe Square Cantilever Umbrella is one of the most popular models.

3. Table & Free-Standing Umbrellas

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There are tables and free-standing umbrellas. Most tables use a standard 1.75″ hole for patio umbrellas but it’s always a good idea to check to make sure. 1.75″ is the standard size for Treasure Gardens Umbrellas. Sometimes, umbrella poles are 2″. These work well for dining tables. Free-standing outdoor umbrellas are ideal for poolside furnishings.

4. Ventilation

Umbrella ventilation is something to consider depending on the climate that you live in. Single-ventilation umbrellas are the standard for most umbrellas you’ll come across. They allow for average heat dissipation and hold up under average winds. Double ventilation is the way to go if you live in a particularly windy or hot area. The double ventilation allows for more heat dissipation and handles wind better than a single-ventilation umbrella.

Section C. Fabrics & Materials – Best Patio Umbrella Fabric

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Just like the fabrics of your outdoor furniture, you need to ensure that the fabrics and materials used on your umbrella meet all-weather requirements. If you live in windy areas, you may want to consider fiberglass umbrellas that are flexible and are designed to bend slightly. Likewise, aluminum is very durable and is still a viable option.

Regarding fabrics, you’ll want to look for a few key phrases that will indicate a quality outdoor umbrella. All-weather, waterproof and UV resistant fabrics, and breathable designs that prevent mold and mildew are highly recommended. Sunbrella is the most well-known name in outdoor fabrics. They began making awnings in the early 1960s. They now make fabrics for umbrellas as well. Learn more about Sunbrella Fabrics.

Buy Patio Umbrella Covers Here.

For more insight, I’d suggest these Additional Patio Umbrella Resources:

  1. Buying Guide: Find The Best Outdoor Patio Umbrella For Your Home
  2. What to Look for While Shopping for Some Shade
  3. How to Pick a Patio Umbrella That Performs

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How to Measure Patio Umbrella Size
    • Fully extend your umbrella so all ribs are completely fanned out.  Measure from the top of the rib arm to the bottom of the rib arm.  This will give you the radius of the umbrella. Now multiply this measurement by 2 to get the total diameter of your patio umbrella.

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  • What Size Patio Umbrella for 48″ Table?
    • A 48″ table needs a patio umbrella that is 11′.
  • What Size Patio Umbrella for 42″ Table?
    • A 42″ table needs a patio umbrella that is 10′.
  • What Size Umbrella for 54″ Table?
    • A 54″ table needs a patio umbrella that is 11′ or larger.
  • Who Makes the Best Patio Umbrellas?
    • Treasure Garden, Bambrella, California Umbrella, and Hospitality Rattan make the best patio umbrellas.
  • Patio Umbrella – Wood vs. Aluminum?
    • Aluminum is more durable than traditional wood umbrella poles; however, wood offers a higher density, so it stays put if you are experiencing high winds.  Aluminum is lightweight, making it easy to move, and is often powder coated to make it rust-resistant.  This means that you won’t have to worry about any weather-related deterioration.  If you’re considering wood, Bambrella makes an exclusive line of incredibly durable bamboo umbrellas.  Their umbrellas are resistant to warping, splitting, rotting, molding, or mildewing, and will neither splinter or leach

More Patio Furnishing Buying Guides

  1. The Patio Furniture Buyer’s Guide
  2. Outdoor Wicker Furniture Buying Guide
  3. A Buyer’s Guide to Wrought Iron Patio Furniture

173 thoughts on “The Ultimate Patio Umbrella Buyers Guide”

    1. Hey Nancy – that depends. You want to use a custom fabric for an existing umbrella frame you already have? What is the shape of the frame, i.e. is it designed as a market umbrella for a round or octagonal canvas shape, or is it a cantilever frame designed for a square or rectangular shape, or something else? The geometry of the resulting canvas based on what your umbrella frame can support will determine how much material you need for the canvas.

  1. I cannot find the diameter of the pole that extends from the base for the umbrella. I have a table with a 1 & 7/8″
    opening. My umbrella has a 1&1/2 dia. pole. The table bottom is 6″ to the cut hole from the ground . Is there a base that will slide though that hole and fit the umbrellas 1&1/2″ pole?

  2. When describing an umbrella base as a “50 lb base” are you saying that the base actually weighs 50 lbs, or that it can handle 50 lbs of weight/force to keep the umbrella stable? I had assumed you meant the weight of the base, but some website imply that its the latter. I have a 7′ x 9′ umbrella and would like to make sure my base is heavy enough. It’s in a table. Thank you –

    1. The weight refers to the weight of the base itself. If it’s in a table, that will help reduce any sway but there is always the danger of the wind simply picking up the umbrella and carrying it away. This could damage your table if it’s made of glass. Therefore, it’s important to have a base with the proper weight to ensure the umbrella doesn’t just fly away.

      Please refer to our Buyer’s Guide for more help. If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to ask. We are glad to help.

      https://www.patioproductions.com/blog/patio-furniture/patio-umbrella-buyers-guide/

  3. What size rectangular umbrella would I need for a rectangular table measuring 66″x40″?

  4. Can you clarify for me. In #1 above, you say that a 4 ft diameter table (48″) would require an 8 ft umbrella (2 ft added on each side). Then in the examples you show that a 48″ table (4 ft) would need an 11 ft umbrella! Why wouldn’t it need an 8 ft umbrella as in the explanation verbiage?

    Thank you.

    1. Sorry for any confusion. You can use an umbrella between 8 ft and 11 ft for a 48″ table. It’s really up to your personal preference. Some people prefer a wider umbrella because they like the extra shade it provides.

  5. A free standing tilting umbrella just with a base is enough to hold straight? Or a table is recommended so the umbrella doesn’t fall? Could a heavier base helpful. I can’t go with a cantilever umbrella since hey only come in diameter of 10 feet whereas my patio is only 7.5 feet. Thanks.

    1. Great question. I own a freestanding tilting umbrella myself and would definitely recommend using a table. The problem with tilting umbrellas is once you start tilting them the weight is shifted to the side, making them easy to tip over. Add wind into the equation and it gets even worse, especially if the umbrella is tilted, catching the wind like a sail. A table does a great job of providing much needed support around the pole’s mid-section. A heavier base can be helpful, but might not be as practical. Especially if you plan on moving the umbrella around. Hope this helps.

  6. I have a rectangular table that is 132″x48″. Do I need to special order an umbrella? What size would you recommend? Thanks!

    1. The rule of thumb says the umbrella should extend at least 2 feet beyond the edge of a table on each side. Therefore, you would need a 15×8 foot rectangular umbrella for an 11×4 foot rectangular table. Umbrellas larger than 13 feet become harder to find so you may need to special order. Since your table is so large, another option you may want to consider are shade sails. They are very affordable and can cover large areas easily.

  7. M. D. Costello

    I have a 10ft. sq. deck. I don’t an umbrella table, so what size and kind are best suited for the deck. If i get a tilted one, what sort of base is needed and weight size.?

    1. What are the exact dimensions of your deck? The length and width of your deck will determine the best size umbrella to use.

    1. A rectangular umbrella with a square table can be tricky because you want to make sure the umbrella provides enough shade for everyone. But as long as your umbrella extends the recommended 2 feet beyond the edge of the table on each side then you should be fine.

    1. The rule of thumb is that you want the umbrella to extend 2 feet on each side of the space you want to cover. So for a 5ft wide space, a 9ft wide umbrella is recommended.

    1. Some manufacturers recommend not using your cantilever umbrella at all if it is flopping around in the wind. They are typically made of heavy metal, so the potential for danger is definitely there, and it could also damage the canopy. Wind damage or acts of nature aren’t covered by warranty either.

        1. Yes. It is common to have a canopy replaced several times over the lifespan of an umbrella frame. Best thing would be to reach out to the retailer you purchased the umbrella from or going to the manufacturer directly.

  8. Can you place a square 10′ cantilever umbrella in a corner and what clearance measurements would I need?

    1. You can place a cantilever umbrella in a corner but you may be limiting the mobility. After all, a great reason for having a cantilever is the ability to rotate and adjust it where you need it. I would recommend taking a close look at the dimensions of each umbrella you’re considering. Different models can have different clearance measurements even if they are the same umbrella size.

  9. Hi,
    our rooftop deck is 9’x13′ and we’d love to cover half of it. We’re in NYC, so looking for a solid solution.
    What size would you recommend for umbrella and base? And I assume we should stay away from cantilever/tilting solutions for safety reasons?
    I’m a little overwhelmed buy making the right decision… 🙂

    1. As long as you don’t use it in windy conditions and don’t leave it alone unattended with the umbrella open then a cantilever umbrella can work just fine. The rule of thumb is that the edge of the umbrella should extend 2 feet beyond the space you want to shade on every side. The best thing would be to figure out exactly what space you want to shade, and then go from there. Covering half of your rooftop (4.5’x6.5′) would only provide adequate coverage for a space of (.5’x2.5′). To provide shade for the amount of space you’re talking about, you would need to cover most of rooftop.

  10. We have a smaller rectangle table do you have to do a rectangle umbrella or can you do a larger circle umbrella?

    1. As long as the umbrella provides the coverage desired then it should be perfectly fine. Remember the rule of thumb, an umbrella should extend 2 feet beyond each side of the table to provide adequate shade.

    1. A 13′ Octagon Cantilever Umbrella will work great. Remember the rule of thumb, 2 feet past the edge of the table on each side.

  11. I have 40″ x 80″ patio dining table and am confused about what size/shape of umbrella I should be getting. Would a round 9ft or 11ft umbrella work?

    1. The rule of thumb is you want the umbrella to extend 2 feet beyond each edge of the table. So for a 80″ table (approximately 6.7′), an 11 foot umbrella should be enough for your needs.

  12. joyce urbanski

    i am looking for a patio umbrella cover for a 7 foot umbrella. It must have an enclosed high reach rod so that I can put the cover on easily. It must be waterproof. Sounds simple, but I cannot find one. I have on from Treasure Island (now out of business) which is perfect but is old and finally falling apart after about 15 years.

    1. Unfortunately we don’t carry any patio umbrella covers with an enclosed high reach rod, but I was able to find a few on Amazon after a quick search for “patio umbrella cover with rod” Good luck on your search.

  13. My table has an opening of 1 3/8 inch opening. I cannot find an umbrella with this small an opening. I did 4 years ago but not anymore. Could I employ someone to make it bigger by cutting the fiberglass? Thank you.

    1. Nowadays the typical size of an umbrella pole is 1.5″, with umbrella holes being slightly larger (around 1 3/4″) to be able to accommodate them. Thankfully fiberglass is a material that can be cut if necessary. Just be sure to use the right tools and procedures or employ someone who is knowledgeable.

    1. Yes you can, as long as the umbrella is properly supported with a heavy enough base than it should work just fine.

  14. I gave a 75 kb concrete umbrella base. I want to buy a free standining umbrella for our deck. What size umbrella will this support

  15. I have a umbrella with wood frame the pole is three inch does any body sell this any more cannot find one.

  16. I need to replace the pole that attaches to the base for the umbrella stand. Dilly of a time finding that. The one that broke at the weld is 12″ long 2″ diameter and the nut that connects the pole to the base is 1/2″ dia. Can you help?

    1. If you’re a costumer of ours we can try to contact the manufacturer and see if the pole is covered by warranty and find a replacement. Otherwise, it is hard to make a recommendation without knowing the maker and model of the umbrella.

      Unfortunately, we don’t offer any replacement parts for umbrellas on our website.

    1. When it comes to commercial outdoor furniture, the price is always going to be higher than what is meant for a residential consumer. Being used in high traffic areas such as hotels, spas, and restaurants requires furniture that can hold up to the abuse. This requires strong, high quality materials. Bambrella even goes above and beyond to test their umbrellas in high speed wind tunnels with winds upward of 120+ mph. Most manufacturers recommend folding away the umbrella at much lower wind speeds for fear of snapping. You can definitely get yourself a much less expensive umbrella for around a few hundred dollars. If you only take it out once a year for the occasional get together that may be all you need.

  17. My cantilever umbrella collapsed/closed during some wild winds. I now cannot wind it back up/open it again. I do not know the brand as I inherited it. I judge it to be several years old. Do you think it is beyond repair?

  18. I need to purchase the umbrella portion only – the arm, pole and base are still in wonderful shape. Can I just purchase the umbrella portion only, Is this possible?

    1. That’s a great question. Your first option would be to contact the manufacturer and ask. But even if they do, you’ll likely have to pay to ship the umbrella to the manufacturer for repair and then pay again to have it shipped back. For an outdoor umbrella this can easily add up to a few hundred dollars, depending on the size/weight. If you’re very handy there’s also the DIY option but I wouldn’t recommend that unless you really know what you’re doing. And the fabric alone can cost you as much as a new umbrella.

      When it comes to outdoor umbrellas, the fabric is usually the most expensive part of umbrella unfortunately.

  19. What about the height of the table? We have a 27″ H table along with 38″ H table. Do all umbrella heights fit both?

  20. I moved to a new house, and have a concrete patio round table with the hole. Unfortunately that hole is filled with all small stones. I took it out about 5 inches deep, but it has alot of stones.
    My question are:
    1) Is those kind of table’s hole should be hallow all the way to the ground hold my umbrella?
    2) Is there any easy way to take out all the stones, and make that empty?
    These seems to be silly questions, but pls answer.

    1. Yes, the hole for the umbrella should be hallow all the way to the ground. This way the umbrella is properly supported.

      There are tools used to pick up small items in hard to reach areas. I searched on Amazon and found this product:

      X-Long 36″ Flex-Cable Pick-Up Tool 4-Finger Claw End Retriever Snake by Pro Tools

      I think that would help solve your problem.

  21. We just had purchased deck rebuilt and I’ve pulled out our cantilever umbrella to use (we never used it as the deck was unusable). When it’s up I get so paranoid cos it flaps around in the wind. It’s got 4 cement squares weighing it down but I just can’t help but scared that it’s going to to fly away. Is this normal with cantilever umbrellas?

    1. You definitely want to be careful when it comes to cantilever umbrellas and high winds. When a cantilever is tilted, the umbrella can act like a sail and become extremely unstable. There is even the possibility of the pole snapping. We would recommend rolling down or putting away the umbrella during high winds.

  22. Pool builders redid our concrete around pool and suggested reset hole in concrete 10″ for umbrella.. they do not sell umbrellas. My old 9ft market umbrella to short to walk under. How tall are bar height or length of extenders. My table is only 56in h. Prefer no tilt but other may be to tall to put pin in to keep umbrella up. Any ideas?

  23. I have a high top patio table and just bought a really nice tilting umbrella for it; unfortunately due to the table height the umbrella pole is about 6″ short of hitting the ground when the umbrella is closed. I’ve temporarily stacked rocks on the ground to support the pole so it is not dangling off the ground. Unfortunately the tilt mechanism only works when the umbrella is secured in a base. If I keep this umbrella and get a base it is not going to sit down into the base all the way to the ground. Likely I’ll only be able to only use the top most screw of the base to secure the pole. Is this going to be a problem?

    1. For this particular situation, it may be a good idea to get a base that is heavier than recommended. The higher the umbrella is, the higher the center of gravity and higher the chance of tipping over. But you can help offset that by using a heavier base.

      Does your umbrella use a pole that detaches? You may be able to contact the manufacturer and order a longer bottom pole to suit your needs. If it’s any of the manufacturers we deal with we would be glad to help by contacting them on your behalf.

  24. We have a base and got a new umbrella for Christmas we went to put it out and realized there is not a pole to connect to the base. We are trying to order one but I can’t figure out what that pole would be called and how long it needs to be. Any suggestions?

    1. Thank you for your question. That’s strange because the umbrella should have come with a bottom pole that attaches to the base. I would recommend double checking the parts list because you may be missing the bottom pole piece. The standard height is around 32″ but that number can change depending on the manufacturer/umbrella model. Pole diameters can vary so it’s important to find the one that is for your umbrella.

  25. Hi, Can you please suggest the best umbrella(6′ or 9′) for 48″ table in a 20′ x 8′ deck?
    Thanks

    1. For a 48″ Table, we recommend the 9′ Octagon Auto Tilt Umbrella or the 9′ Octagon Collar Tilt Umbrella.

      Both of these models are great for dining tables because of the tilt mechanism. The auto-tilt engages by cranking the lever and the collar tilt is engaged by twisting the collar around the lever/crank. This means you don’t have to reach up to the height of the umbrella to engage the auto-tilt, which can be nearly impossible when trying to reach over a dining table.

      If you’re fairly tall and the idea of reaching up doesn’t sound like an inconvenience, the 9′ Octagon Push Button Tilt Umbrella is another option. And it’s also more affordable.

  26. Do any companies manufacture a table with an umbrella hole large enough for an oversized umbrella pole? We are looking at purchasing an umbrella that opens up with 3 vented dome tops; however, the diameter of the pole is much larger than the hole in our table.

    1. From our experience, most manufacturers make their tables with holes between 2-3 inches in diameter. The standard size of an outdoor umbrella pole is between 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Unfortunately, you may need to make some adjustments to your table or hire someone who can. Be sure to consider whether the umbrella may be too big for your table. Also, be sure the umbrella is properly supported with a base that meets the manufacturer’s requirements.

  27. Sana Samuelson

    Can I buy a 70 lb base and transfer it around different umbrellas? I bought supposedly UV proof umbrellas but they fade before the season is finished and look tacky. I would rather buy am umbrella for $100-200 without the base (maybe just buy one yearly) and use the base for each new umbrella. That way I wouldn’t have to buy a $400-500 dollar umbrella with the weight and have to toss the whole thing each year.
    Sounds strange but I am frustrated with umbrellas not lasting long enough.

    1. Every umbrella manufacturer should provide a minimum weight for your umbrella base. Different umbrella models may need more or less weight depending on factors such as size and materials.

      As long as the base meets the recommended minimum, you can use it with as many umbrellas as you’d like. You should also be mindful of the pole diameter to make sure the pole fits the base.

      I find it alarming that you are spending $400-$500/year on a new umbrella because of the fabric fading. For that amount of money you can afford an umbrella made with Sunbrella fabric, which comes with a 5 year warranty against fading.

      We would recommend taking a look at umbrellas made by Treasure Garden and sticking with Sunbrella, the most reliable outdoor fabric in the industry.

  28. Our table is 5′ x 7′. We purchased an 11′ cantilever umbrella. In what position relative to the sun (south side of table?) should it be positioned for maximum shade over the table? We don’t want to move the umbrella or table once it’s set up. Thank you.

    1. A cantilever umbrella is able to tilt in the angle of the sun, therefore the East or West side of the table would be a good place for the umbrella. This will allow the umbrella to tilt into the sun and provide shade all day long, but also will keep it out of view during sunset and sunrise when you do want a view of the sun.

  29. Hi,
    I have a small round bistro table that is “bar” height and found that a regular umbrella is too low. Can you tell me what is the longest pole length that a patio umbrella comes in to get the proper clearance? Thanks!

    1. Very good question. You may have noticed that for many umbrellas, the bottom portion of the pole can be removed and re-attached. This helps for transporting the umbrella but it also means you can get different bottom pole lengths to accommodate the type of table you are using. Treasure garden offers umbrellas with the option to include a 45″ bottom pole that is the perfect height for bar tables. The average bar table is around 42″.

  30. We have a small lite weight round wooden table about 42 inches around. . I’m afraid to get an umbrella that’s too heavy, as it might tip over the table. What do you recommend??

    1. Thank you for your question. Even if you are placing the umbrella inside a table, the umbrella should be placed inside a base underneath the table. So it’s not just the table weighing down the umbrella, but the table and the base combined together. The reason is exactly for the situation you described. If an umbrella is placed inside a table without a base, it runs the risk of tipping over easily or being picked up by the wind. Which is the last thing you want during an outdoor dinner party. For most umbrellas a 150-200 lb base is enough. But heavier umbrellas may require 300-400 lb bases.

  31. Stephanie R Hagen

    I’m buying an 8′ diameter cantilevered umbrella with a base that holds 50 lbs. of sand. Do you think it will be an issue with wind blowing it about? It does have a vent in the top.

    1. It might be enough, but I would rather be safe than sorry. Test it out. If the umbrella sways too much under normal wind conditions then you may need to reconsider the weight of the base. Always refer to the manufacturers’ recommendations.

  32. What size Ball Bearing do I need to repair the winding gear on my Bramblecrest Parasol

    1. Hello, thank you for commenting. We have never dealt with products by Bramblecrest so we are not familiar at all with them. Your best bet might be to reach out to the manufacturer and get the information directly. You can also try talking with the people who sold you the umbrella and see if they can find the information you’re looking for.

  33. my parents have bought a cantilever umbrella that unfortunately does not tilt. I did see somewhere you can buy weights or clips for the umbrella but cannot find them now anywhere. Any ideas? Thank you

    1. That doesn’t sound like a safe idea. Perhaps that is the reason why you can’t find them anymore.

  34. We recently purchased (used) a “bar height” patio table with four chairs. The table has a hole for an umbrella, but I’m concerned about getting the correct pole length for the higher table. Is there a guideline for standard table height versus bar height?

    1. Very good question. You may have noticed that for many umbrellas, the bottom portion of the pole can be removed and re-attached. This helps for transporting the umbrella but it also means you can get different bottom pole lengths to accommodate the type of table you are using. Treasure garden offers umbrellas with the option to include a 45″ bottom pole that is the perfect height for bar tables. The average bar table is around 42″.

  35. I am interested in your 10 foot cantilevered umbrella. I live in a fairly high wind and very sunny area in Santa Fe.

    What kind of base do I need? Do I have to have a valance? I cannot find pricing on your website.

    1. The 10 foot Cantilevered Umbrella is available in both square and octagon shaped models. They each come available with 200 lb and 400 lb base options in case you want to play it safe. Of course, you should always put away your umbrella or fold it down if the conditions are too windy to be safe. A valance is not necessary, it is a personal preference. The valance adds a little bit of extra shade when the sun is low and has a different aesthetic appeal altogether. Some might call it a more traditional or old fashioned umbrella style. Not all umbrellas are available with a valance option. Only certain models are.

  36. I am having difficulty finding an 11′ auto tilt umbrella for a balcony (gathering) height patio table. The bar height extension when added is making the umbrella too tall and it looks silly. Who would make an umbrella for a balcony height table.

  37. Great article! All the ins and outs of buying a patio umbrella. Wish you have a “share with FaceBook” button so my friends could read this too!

  38. Heather Murch

    HELP! I have been scouring the internet to find a replacement canopy for our patio umbrella. We need an 11 X 8 OVAL 8-rib canopy, preferably Sunbrella, but I’m getting desperate so would take anything. No problem finding rectangle, but can’t find oval!!

    1. Hello. Thank you for your comment. Unfortunately oval umbrellas are very rare. None of the manufacturers we deal with even have an oval shaped umbrella. I’m afraid we can’t help you unless you were looking for a new umbrella. FYI, when using Sunbrella fabrics for umbrellas, most of the cost usually lies in the canopy and not the frame. So the price difference between replacing the umbrella completely or just the canopy might not even be that much.

  39. bernadette monks

    help! I have an existing base and pole that remains from a two piece wooded umbrella. The top section was damaged. I need to buy a top section to screw onto the existing base pole. the diameter is 1 1/4 inch threaded attachment. where can i buy just the top umbrella section with the 1 1/4 screw on attachment so I can thread it onto my existing base pole?n looking fir a 9 or 10 foot umbrella in canvas or sunbrella.

    1. Hello, thank you for your comment. Unfortunately, it sounds like you have a very specific type of umbrella. We have never encountered an umbrella that screws into the base pole. Most umbrellas simply slide into the base pole. Do you happen to know the name of the manufacturer? If it’s a manufacturer we deal with we can reach out to them and get some more information for you.

  40. Can I use a cantilevered 11ft umbrella on a rectangle 54 inch table if it fits in the center hole? Is there any danger in it?

    1. Placing a cantilever inside a dining table defeats the purpose of a cantilever. The purpose of a cantilever is having a versatile source of shade that can be easily moved and angled according to the position of the sun, providing maximum shade any time of day to a specific area. But that area is the space beneath the canopy, not around the cantilever pole. In fact, the space around the cantilever pole may not get any shade at all.

      Also, one of the best benefits of a cantilever is having the pole out of the way and not having it directly in the middle of your space (sticking out of your dining table).

      Another thing to consider is how the cantilever will close and if it will be able to close when sticking out of a dining table. If you can’t close the umbrella, it will become extremely dangerous being attached to a dining table when wind speeds pick up.

  41. Andu H.Yohannes

    I just bought a 10ft. offset umbrella. The cloth is Yellow in colour, and the shade is bright and it seems it does not keep the shade cool. Is there any remedy or I have to live with it. Thanks. Andu

    1. Sounds like you have an umbrella with a very thin fabric that does not reflect the rays of the sun completely. You could try getting a different umbrella with a better fabric. It’s also important to consider that the shade doesn’t make outdoor temperatures cooler, it’s contact with the direct sun that makes it feel 10-15 degrees hotter than the outdoor temperature. It’s cooler in the shade, yes. But all outdoor temperatures are taken in the shade. So if you check your local weather and they say it’s 82 degrees. That means it’s 82 degrees in the shade.

  42. Bobby Sanford

    I have a stand alone umbrella that needs new fabric. There is currently none. There are eight arms on the umbrella, However, the arms are not all the same length. Measuring each arm clockwise, the measurements of each arm are as follows: 5’4″, 5’4″, 4’4″, 4’4″, 5’4″, 5’4″, 4’4″, 4’4″. Any suggestions?

    1. Hello, thank you for your comment.

      Do you happen to know the manufacturer and model of your umbrella? It’s impossible to make any suggestions without knowing exactly which umbrella we’re talking about.

      If it’s a manufacturer we deal with, we can look into finding a replacement canopy for you.

  43. Lindsey Bloise

    I have a 70×40 table. What sized rectangular and round umbrella will work?

    Thanks!

    1. Remember the rule of thumb is 2 feet beyond your patio table is how much an umbrella should extend to provide adequate shade. So for a table that is 70×40, or approximately 6 x 3.5 ft, you would need an umbrella that is at least 8 x 5.5 ft for a rectangular. For a round umbrella, it would have to be at least 8 ft diameter.

        1. I have the same size table with a 9 ft round umbrella that doesn’t give enough shade.

          1. How high is your umbrella? Unfortunately, umbrellas placed inside a table are often higher than normal in order to clear the table or simply be able to open and close the canopy without it hitting the table surface.

  44. For minimalist patio design, do you have a recommendation for the best patio umbrella?

  45. My oval table is 5’3″ x 3’8″. Rectangle umbrellas are too large. What should I use and size?

  46. Thanks for such useful information!
    I have recently bought Abba Patio Outdoor Umbrella using your tips and I LOVE it!
    This was a replacement for an older, heavier & much more expensive umbrella. It is so much better than the other one!

  47. I have an smith & hawked patio umbrella and a leather corner that attaches the canopy to a pole is missing. where could I find a replacement

    1. The best option in these situations is to reach out directly to the manufacturer and see what they have to say. Unfortunately we don’t carry any products from that brand, otherwise we would be glad to contact them on your behalf and help resolve the problem.

      Manufacturers usually keep replacement parts on hand for problems their customers run into regularly.

  48. Vivek Shrivastava

    Hi Admin. I am actually searching a reason to buy patio umbrella for my patio. There is a Jacuzzi as well . So while my kid plays in Jacuzzi, I sit on a chair under patio umbrella? Challenge is – I don’t enjoy sun and rain up close. For evenings, it’s nice to have sky above rather than umbrella.

    So apart from giving my patio a new look, what else? why buy a patio umbrella? Looking to learn from your experience.

  49. I have a Meadowcraft 48″ round stone top on wrought iron base table. There is a center piece where the umbrella pole goes through and then into an umbrella base. Unfortunately, this center opening is only 11 ” from the deck surface and most umbrella bases I’ve seen are higher than 11″. Can you recommend a base that is no higher than 10″ to fit underneath the table for umbrella to be inserted?

    1. Thank you for your comment. That is a very good question.

      How heavy is your table and how big is the canopy of your umbrella? It might be possible that the table itself is heavy enough to support the umbrella without the assistance of a base, considering that the table is made out of wrought iron, which is very heavy. If we’re talking about a table that weighs 100 lbs+, and an umbrella that measures 11′ or less, than an umbrella base might not be necessary.

      If you want to play it safe, which I understand, your best solution may be to find someone who can cut the umbrella base to size so it will fit properly under your table.

  50. My wife enjoyed a patio umbrella made with a strong very open, meshed weave that reminded me of lacquered wicker. She liked that the shade was effectively partial and not complete. We can’t seem to find this type of patio umbrella in our google searches and wonder what this sort would be officially called. Can you help?

    1. That’s very interesting. Thank you for your comment.

      After digging around I couldn’t find any information on the type of umbrella you described. It is likely that this type of umbrella style simply fell out of favor in the industry as better and more reliable materials were adopted. Nowadays, outdoor umbrellas use acrylic fiber for their canopies and this allows them to be very durable and lightweight, as well as maintain color without fading over many years.

  51. I have a small round table with 2 chairs . The table has a hole for a umbrella. What size should I order for the umbrella.. Seems like all I can find is very larger umbrellas

  52. Judith Anne James

    Larry Yates: I’ve been looking for the same thing for several years. The only kind of umbrella I want.
    Disappointing that they don’t make it anymore.

  53. I have only an 8′ enclosed lanai with a hammock. I need a 6′-7′ offset umbrella . Nothing larger will work. Do anyone make one?

    1. Thank you for your comment.

      Treasure Garden offers a 6′ Octagon Push Button Tilt Umbrella and 7.5′ version as well. Either model has a push button tilt so you can offset the umbrella in the direction you need.

      Another option you might want to consider is a veranda, such as this wall mounted version.

  54. The sun can be very hot here in New Mexico. Is there a light colored reflective fabric that stays cool and also produces a very dense shade? Dark fabrics get hot to touch.; White fabrics reflect and get less hot but if the fabric is light in weight it lets quite a bit of the sun’s energy through. Thanks, Mel

    1. Thank you very much for your comment, that is a very good question.

      You are correct, while white may be the best color to reflect the sun’s heat, it still allows UV light to pass through. Black is good for blocking UV rays from the sun but it absorbs a lot of heat as well.

      The color blue strikes a good balance between the properties of white fabric and black fabric.

      It’s also important to remember that the tightness of the weave also plays an important role. A tighter weave is far more effective for providing that dense shade you’re looking for.

  55. We have an incredible view of the mountain from our patio, but also from inside the home from the great room and kitchen. We’ve been struggling to find an umbrella that is tall enough to not block the view from inside the home. We are thinking about building a base that would lift the umbrella another 1-2′. But it would be nice if there is simply a ‘taller’ umbrella – we would need one that is at least 10×10, but 12’x12′ would be best. Even the Portofino seems to only have about 8′ of clearance…

    Any ideas?

  56. Debra Boddie

    I have a 36 x60″ wrought iron table. My deck measures 9.6″ wide and it is very long so no problem there.. The table is oblong. I do not know what size umbrella to order and I need to order it quickly. I was thinking an oval cantilever, but they seem to be too large. Can you help?

    1. Your next best option might be to go with a rectangular cantilever umbrella. It seems like your deck is wide enough to accommodate both the table and the cantilever off to one side. The smallest cantilever umbrella we offer is a 10×13. When it comes to cantilevers they don’t get much smaller than that, unfortunately.

  57. ROBERT SCHONBRUN

    I’m trying to find a rectangular table umbrella an 8×10 or so where the long side tilts down, any ideas? I can’t seem to find any that have this function.

    Thanks

    1. Our website offers a 8×10 Auto-Tilt Umbrella from Treasure Garden. The benefit of the auto-tilt is that you just keep cranking the pulley mechanism once the umbrella is fully open to initiate the tilt function. This is very helpful for table umbrellas because you don’t need to reach up high to tilt. You just keep cranking the pulley which sits just above the tabletop (about 3-3.5′).

  58. I have a 48 inch round wrought iron table and in the past used a 9 foot round umbrella. To try something different could I use a square umbrella style or offset style.

    1. Absolutely. Just because your table is round doesn’t mean your umbrella must be round too. There are more important factors such as the position of the sun and the size/shape of your patio.

      A square offset umbrella can provide around 15% more shade than a round or octagon umbrella. When offset, a square umbrella will do a better job of blocking out the sun as well.

  59. I have a 22 rib umbrella and it needs a new canopy where might I find one or how do I adapt the regular canopy to fit.? I think it is 9ft.

    1. Thank you for your comment.

      Replacement canopies are specific to each manufacturer. If you know the name of the manufacturer it would be worth reaching out to them and asking if they offer replacement canopies.

      There is no “universal” canopy that can fit any umbrella made by any manufacturer. Especially for 22 rib umbrellas, those are pretty unique and not everyone makes them.

      When it comes to umbrellas, the canopy is the most expensive part, even more so than the frame itself. If you are already willing to pay to replace the canopy it may be in your best interest to get a completely new umbrella.

  60. hi i am just looking for the umbrella stand and pole alone without the canopy . but i can’t seem to find one . i already have a canopy i really like in mind and just want to put the two together but can’t seem to find a regular umbrella alone . please help . i’m not sure if i should get just any brand and take their canopy out ..

    1. Each manufacturer is unique when it comes to their canopies so you can’t just mix and match the canopy from one manufacturer with the frame of another. There is no “universal” one-size-fits-all umbrella frame or canopy. Most manufacturers use the same standard sizes for canopies but that does not mean that they are compatible with any umbrella frame in the same size.

      Do you remember the original name of the manufacturer that came with the canopy you really like? I would reach out to them for a replacement frame.

  61. I have a 60X60 table. If I use a round umbrella what size should I use? And if I use a rectangle what size should I use.

    1. Thank you for your comment.

      For a 60×60 inch table, you can get away with a 7.5′ round/octagon umbrella. But personally, I think a 9′ would be better. A 9′ umbrella would provide better shade throughout the day than a 7.5′. A tilt umbrella would also help keep you well shaded throughout the day. I don’t see a rectangle working well for the size of your table. Most rectangular umbrellas start at 10′ on the short end and I’m afraid that would be way too big for your space.

  62. Travis Zeiset

    I’m looking for an umbrella for my deck table. I measured the hole and it’s 1.5 inches. (from inside to inside)
    I ordered an umbrella that was advertised as a 1.5 inch diameter pole. When the umbrella came it was 1.75 inches. I got my money back, but does this mean I need to order an umbrella with a 1.25 inch pole diameter for it to fit in a 1.5 inch hole, or was the umbrella just advertised wrong? I don’t want to chance buying another umbrella that advertises a 1.5 inch diameter than it doesn’t fit again.

    1. Thank you for your comment.

      Sorry to hear about that. Sometimes manufacturers make small changes to their products without notifying their retailers. Or on the other hand, a retailer is slow to update the information on their website. If measurements are very important to you, we would always recommend calling before placing your order to confirm the size of measurements. With a 1.5″ hole, you should be fine with a 1.5″ umbrella pole. It should fit just fine.

  63. We’ve ordered the LL Bean large all-weather patio table it measures 38×72… what size and shape umbrella would you suggest?

  64. We are getting a square table 42 x 42. I got a 7.5 foot umbrella but then saw almost the same thing somewhere else but they only had 9 foot. I think the 9 foot will be too big for our table but not quite sure. Can you advise please? Thanks so much.

    1. For a table of that size, a 7.5′ umbrella should be big enough to suit your needs, especially if the umbrella has a tilt function. Some umbrellas don’t come with a tilt function and this could be a reason for going with a 9′ versus a 7.5′.

  65. What size umbrella should I buy for my deck that is 12’x7’? I had wanted to put it in the corner of the deck to hang/cover my conversation set.

    1. Thank you for your comment.

      For corner positioning, your best bet would be to go with a large cantilever umbrella. It’s hard to say exactly what size and shape without knowing a few more details about your space but it’s more important to shade the space you will be lounging in vs. the entire deck. Most umbrella manufacturers provide information about the expected square footage their umbrellas are designed to provide shade for. If you would like to speak with one of our experienced salespeople please feel free to give us a call.

  66. Help!
    I am almost 69 years old and at the rate I am shrinking I will be a full sized munchkin before i hit 75.
    I bought a 9 ft market umbrella for my patio table and I cant raise the canopy high enough to put the pin in the hole at even the lowest point without the assistance of a step on stool..
    I always lower my umbrella when I am no longer on the deck for the day . I find this step stool nonsense annoying and quite honestly a bit frightening as I live alone…
    So may i ask, are there differences in the heights of umbrellas or are they standard height. ? Am I correct to assume that when an umbrella is listed at 7-1/2 , 8 or 9 feet they are discussing the width of the canopy when opened?

    I need an umbrella i can open and close easily as well as tilt at various times of the day. a Crank handle will work but the tilt mechanism is still too high for me to reach. I have tried free stand and center of deck table.

    can you help?

    1. It sounds like what you need is either an Auto-tilt or Collar-Tilt Crank Lift umbrella. An auto-tilt umbrella uses the same crank mechanism to begin tilting the umbrella once the canopy reaches the highest point. A collar tilt uses a mechanism that rotates around pole, sort of like turning a nut and bolt, to make the umbrella tilt. And of course you want a Crank Lift so you don’t have to reach all the way up to put the pin in the hole. When it comes to the names of umbrellas, the name always refers to the size of the canopy.

  67. patricia robertson

    purchased a 30 inch table w/ 2 chairs w/ umbrella slot. for approx 5 ftm by 6 ft corner of patio. need help finding correct umbrella size that tilts to shade this area.

  68. I am looking to Add some umbrella inserts tubes into my deck to house my umbrellas and move them to different locations as needed. Do they make an umbrella slightly taller to account for the 5 – 6 in drop in height?

    1. Most umbrella manufacturers will offer umbrella stem extensions for those kinds of situations. These are usually only available upon request so I would contact the manufacturer or your local umbrella retailer and ask them about it.

    2. Our outdoor table has umbrella holder/hole. It has base with pole. We moved from one location to another and the movers disassembled the table top.
      Now we are having a problem fitting the base with the pole to fit in the hole because now the table seems lower than the base with pole.
      Any suggestion how to make this work?
      Thanks in advance for your help.

      1. Hello Lee. Thank you for your comment.

        Does your base have a detachable stem? If so, most manufacturers offer stems in various lengths for this very reason.

        It sounds like the size (diameter) of the pole might be an issue as well. I would double check and make sure the stem will fit the hole of your table before ordering a replacement.

  69. Hi there ,I have a 38×32 table with 4 chairs facing south.It gets very hot on my deck.How big of a umbrella can i go,also should it be a square one.Roght now I have a 7ft one now and it does not cover well.thank you

    1. Thank you for your comment.

      Whatever works best for your space is the right answer. Just because you have a square table doesn’t mean you need a square umbrella. You can definitely go with a octagon, round, or rectangular umbrella as well.

      The rule of thumb is your umbrella should have an extra 2 feet on each side. So for a table that is approximately 3’x3′, the umbrella should be at least 5’x5′ (Square). You can definitely go bigger with either an 8′ or 9′ umbrella.

      Does your umbrella tilt? A tilt mechanism may solve your problem without the need to go bigger. A tilt umbrella allows you to position your umbrella according to the angle of the sun so your space is always properly shaded.

      I cantilever umbrella is another good option for this reason but they start at around 9 feet.

    1. Thank you for your comment. That is a good question that customers often ask. When a manufacturer refers to the size of an umbrella, in particular round umbrellas, it is the diameter of the umbrella being referenced. Therefore a 9 foot umbrella would have 9 foot diameter. Sometimes people assume it is the height being referred to but all umbrellas come in standard heights, more or less.

  70. I have an umbrella that tilts however after it tilts I can never get it to untilt I take it to patio store they press something and all is good when I ask what they do the repair man is never there and no one can tell me what he did He never charges me so I know it’s something very simple??

    1. Hello Dianne. Thank you for your comment.

      Umbrella tilt mechanisms tend to fall into one of three types. Push button tilt, Auto Tilt (Crank tilt), and Collar Tilt.

      Push Button Tilt requires you to push a button located at the tilt point. The mechanism usually locks in place so you need to engage the button again to straighten it. Push button tilts are manually adjusted, therefore you need to press and hold the button while you use the other arm to straighten the pole.

      Auto-Tilt mechanisms are engaged using the same crank mechanism you use to open the umbrella. When the umbrella opens completely, you can engage the tilt by continuing to turn the lever of the crank mechanism. To return it to normal, you just reverse the rotation of the crank.

      Collar Tilts have a collar around the pole (like a nut around a bolt) that is rotated to engage the tilt mechanism and return it back to normal.

  71. So much great information. Thank you. I have a cantilever umbrella that needs replacing. Can I get just the umbrella as the rest if the set up is fine. Or do I need a special umbrella?

    1. Most manufacturers offer replacement canopies for their cantilever umbrellas. If the manufacturer doesn’t deal directly with the public I would contact the store where you purchased the umbrella and let them know that you want to order a replacement canopy. Unfortunately, replacing a canopy can save you some money but it won’t be a lot. The majority of the cost of an umbrella is associated with the canopy.

  72. We have a built in patio table which has a space to insert an umbrella. The space diameter is 1.5” and 7 1/2” deep. The height of the table is 36”. How much show I cut from the umbrella pole assuming the pole is 7’ tall? Will I need to be concerned with top heaviness if I cut too much from the bottom?

    1. Hello Angie. Thank you for your comment.

      If I understand correctly, the hole for the umbrella only extends down 7.5″?

      For a table with an umbrella, you want to make sure that the pole extends all the way down to the ground and is secured in place with an umbrella base. That is how you avoid a situation where the table is too top heavy. We would never recommend placing an umbrella any other way.

    1. Hello Ron. Thank you for your comment.

      Yes, a 9 ft. umbrella (Octagon/Round) should be enough for a 64″ round patio table (approximately 5′). Remember the rule of thumb is 2 feet extra on each side for adequate shade coverage. A 9 ft. is just slightly under but it should do the job.

  73. Oh my goodness! Amazing article dude! Thanks, However I am encountering issues
    with your RSS. I don’t know the reason why I am unable
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  74. Hello I have a rectangle patio table, the measurements are 84×44. What size umbrella would be perfect for my table since I’m having a hard time deciding on the size. Also would rectangular be better then round or vice verse. Thank you in advance.

  75. I recently replaced a wooden deck with a composite deck which is supposed to be maintenance free. I have heavy base for my umbrella that is concrete or something like
    cast iron.
    What do you suggest that I use under the base to protect the deck surface from possible damage. I just noticed a rust spot on the deck that I can’t clean off. I believe this is from an older deck chair and now I want to protect the deck from further stains, etc. Thank you.

    .

    1. We would recommend going with an aluminum base instead of cast iron. Especially powder-coated aluminum because you don’t have to worry about it rusting.

  76. We purchased a 10×6.5 Cantilever patio banana umbrella and my question is: How can I lock the top to prevent the top from flipping up vertical in the slightest of any breeze? The entire top pivots and doesn’t seem to stay in place. We love the umbrella but its useless with any wind…

  77. Karen Randall

    The Table of Contents says Section A #2 addresses “diameter of pole”. I found only information regarding the height of the pole (although based on the general excellence of your answers, I probably missed something!) We bought an 11′ umbrella with a pole diameter of 1.89″. The bases I have found that it will fit into have a diameter of 2.40″. Will this be too great of a difference for ultimate stability? Thank you very much for your answer.

    1. Hi Karen! Thanks so much for the question… actually, you didn’t miss anything, you are indeed correct: we accidentally omitted the part about pole diameter! I think when we were putting this together we wrote about canopy diameter and the pole diameter just missed our review. Sorry about that! We’ll update and address this soon.

      In the meantime, to answer your question, I do think you would be facing a stability problem with those dimensions. It is pretty common for umbrella poles to be between 1.5 and 2 inches in diameter, with “beach umbrellas” often being slimmer than “patio umbrellas” and some manufacturers not really doing a good job differentiating between the two. It’s a big semantic mess.

      I don’t know if this will help you in your current situation, but I did find a “wedge” on Amazon that looks like it could possibly fit your base/umbrella pole configuration. I’d check it out and ask the vendor there if it will work for your current needs:
      https://www.amazon.com/MYARD-Umbrella-Spacer-Opening-Diameter/dp/B0184UDB8U

      Also, if you have the time and interest, you might be able to make something at home that fulfills the same function. Some kind of wedge. It’s definitely not an ideal scenario, but it seems like the other options here are “accept that your umbrella will stand, but won’t be perfectly stable” or “try and replace your umbrella base for a better-fitting one”.

      In our store, we typically try to encourage our customers to buy their umbrella and their base at the same time so they can match up the parts to ensure a good fit. I am curious, did you buy your umbrella and base from our site or our store? If so, I’ll get you in touch with someone on our service team to see if we can figure something out.

      It’s a shame that industry “standards” aren’t very standard after all. We see this in all sorts of industries too, plumbing/appliances and irrigation and bed frames and so on.

      Thanks again for the question Karen, I appreciate you taking the time to read the guide and I hope you can find a solution that works for you! Take care

    1. Most manufacturers offer a longer stem pole option for that very purpose. The stem pole is the detachable bottom piece of the umbrella pole. These can be 45″ to accommodate a bar height table. The umbrellas from Treasure Garden offer the option for a longer stem pole.

  78. James I. “Jimmy” Barash

    Karen,

    Can I use my umbrella as a pole for vaulting over my fence, and just cut up the canopy and use it to make a snazzy Sunbrella mumu? If so, would the 2 foot clearance rule apply in any way?

  79. Hi. I have a deck that is 12 feet by 20 feet.
    The seating area (couch and chairs) take an area of 12 feet by 14 feet. Let us say 12 by 12. No table and I do not need one.
    I do not need to have the rest of the area shaded. What size cantilever umbrella do I need for the seated area? Do i buy a round or rectangle? Thank you.

    1. You could go with either a round or rectangular umbrella. If you went with a round umbrella, a 13 ft. Octagon would be your best bet. That provides enough coverage for 129 square feet. The largest rectangular cantilever we offer is 10′ x 13′ and that provides coverage for 130 square feet.

  80. This is probably the most “it actually makes sense” kind of post I’ve seen on on this subject. Best part… I didn’t have to go digging through some weird web design to find it. Awesome! Please keep posting new material!

    1. Thank you for your comment. That is a very good question. Unfortunately, this is not possible because of the ribs on the frame. The ribs are what spread the canopy out when opening and closing the umbrella. Ribs for a square umbrella can only accommodate a square canopy of equal size.

  81. I’m looking for a cantilever umbrella that I can lower to about 24 inches for my dogs. Do you know where I can find that?

    1. Thank you for your comment. That is a very interesting question. As far as cantilever umbrellas go, they tend to be too large to drop down to that height without creating some serious safety concerns. However, a cantilever that has tilt functionality can be adjusted to keep a specific area in the shade all day long, no matter where the sun moves.

      Apart from that, some manufacturers such as Treasure Garden, offer their dealers the opportunity to purchase display models for their retail showrooms which are essentially miniature umbrellas. They are the perfect size for keeping a couple of dogs under the shade all day long. If you can get in touch with a dealer they may consider ordering one of these for you. Keep in mind that these require being mounted because they don’t have a base to go along with them.

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