When it comes to enjoying your outdoor living space during the summer, nothing is better than curling up in a comfortable umbrella-covered chair or lounger with a cool drink and a good book. There are a few essential research and measuring steps you should take before purchasing an umbrella to ensure that your outdoor space and lanai furniture has sufficient coverage and maximum comfort. We’re here to help you determine the appropriate size and umbrella type for your outdoor patio area.

How to Choose the Correct Umbrella Size 

Choosing the size needed is typically determined by the shade diameter of a particular unit. To select the right size of the umbrella, you need to measure the size of the table or the area you want to shade. The general rule is to choose an umbrella five feet larger than the area you want to shade. 

Umbrellas come in several shapes and sizes, including octagon, square, rectangle, and round, with the 9′ option being the most common. Here are some guidelines for sizing your shade area for tables:

  • 6-foot shade diameter will cover up to a 30-inch bistro or café tables and usually only two chairs.
  • 7-foot shade diameter will cover up to a 36-inch bistro or café tables and typically two to four chairs.
  • 9-foot shade diameter will cover up to 48-inch round or square dining tables with four to six chairs (sometimes more, depending on tilt options and varying degrees of the sun).
  • 11-foot shade diameter will cover up to 60-inch round or square dining tables and 72-inch oval and rectangular tables, typically with six to eight chairs.

Check out this shade finder quiz by Tuuci to help you choose the best umbrella size and type for your outdoor area.

 

Types of Outdoor Umbrellas

Umbrellas come in various styles and are referred to as parasols, shaded structures, and even cabanas. Alongside the traditional cantilever and market styles, commercial, specialty, and cabanas are also part of the shade category. When choosing an umbrella, it’s important to consider the type of material and construction. Will it be near the ocean with salt air and breezes? Will it be used in or around a pool? These factors can impact the durability and longevity of the umbrella. Let’s look at two popular and traditional umbrella styles used in outdoor residential areas.

Cantilever

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Cantilever umbrellas are a great option if you’re looking for an umbrella that provides maximum coverage. These umbrellas are typically placed in a permanent location due to their size and weight. Many can telescope when opening and offer lights, heat, 360-degree motion, in-ground mounting, and longevity. 

 

Market 

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Market umbrellas are a classic choice for any outdoor space, provide good coverage, and can be easily moved around, making them a versatile option for any outdoor area. They are traditional outdoor umbrellas that are freestanding or used with a center post covering tables, deep seating areas, or chaise loungers. 

Whether you’re looking for a traditional round or a sleek rectangular umbrella option, we have you covered with a selection of sizes and materials in stock or for custom orders from top brands such as Treasure Garden, Frankford, and Tuuci. In addition to standard patio umbrellas, we also offer in-ground mounted pool umbrellas from Tuuci, which have become increasingly popular among our customers.

Shop the best patio and lanai furniture umbrellas at Elegant Outdoor Living

We’re here to help our customers looking for elegant and modern furniture to enhance their outdoor patio and lanai furniture. If you are searching for patio umbrellas near you in Sarasota, Bonita Springs, or Naples, shop our wide in-store showroom selections. Contact us with any questions.