Parasols & Bases

Buying Guide for Garden Parasols - How to Choose the Best One for Your Gardening Needs

If you love spending time outdoors but find the heat and sunlight a little too much sometimes, garden parasols are a great investment. They provide shade and protection from the elements while letting you continue enjoying your outdoor space. They’re also a stylish addition to any outdoor space. There are several different varieties of parasols, each with its unique features. From the materials used to how it opens and its size, there are many things to consider when purchasing one for your backyard or garden. Read on for our detailed buying guide for garden parasols and tips on which is best for your needs.

What to Look for When Buying a Parasol

There are several key features you’ll want to look for when buying a garden parasol. First, consider the materials it’s made from. Most parasols are made from woven fabrics, such as cotton or polyester. Others are made from wood or metal. Each material has its own set of pros and cons. Fabrics are a great choice for parasols as they are lightweight and easy to clean. However, they aren’t as durable as other materials. Wood and metal, on the other hand, can withstand wear and tear better and last longer. They, however, tend to be heavier and can rust over time. The next thing to look for is how it opens or closes. Does it have a crank or a pull cord? How many positions does it have? Is it easy to use and store? If you have young children or pets, you’ll want to make sure it has a safety feature to prevent it from closing on them. Lastly, consider the size of the parasol. Most parasols are available in a variety of sizes. If you have a large outdoor space, you may want to purchase a larger one. If you have a small patio or deck, a smaller size may be best for your needs.

Types of Garden Parasols

• Crank: Most parasols are crank-operated, which means they are opened by turning a crank on the side of the frame. These are lightweight and easily stored when not in use. However, they aren’t suitable for taller people as they can put a strain on your back and shoulders when opening or closing them.
• Pull cord: Pull cord-operated parasols are also a common type. They are usually heavier than cranks and less suitable for smaller areas but are easier to use for shorter people.
• Drop-off: Drop-off parasols have a weighted base that can be removed from the frame and safely stored away. This is a great choice for people with smaller outdoor areas who want the flexibility of having a smaller parasol for when they’re using the space.
• Retractable: Retractable parasols have a rotating, telescopic frame that can be opened and closed by a crank or pull cord. They are great for larger outdoor spaces and can be retracted when not in use. However, they are bulkier and less suitable for smaller areas.
• Standard: Standard, or open-ended, parasols are a common choice and are available in a variety of sizes. They are a great option for smaller areas and are easily stored away when not in use.

Which Materials are Best for Parasols?

Fabrics are the most commonly used material for parasols. You’ll want to make sure they are UV-resistant to protect you from harmful rays. Look for fabrics that are woven tightly to prevent them from blowing away in high winds. When it comes to wood, you’ll have several options, such as teak, cedar, and pine. Keep in mind that wood will require extra maintenance to avoid splintering. Metal is a great option for parasols, but you’ll want to make sure it’s rust-proof to avoid discoloration and corrosion.

How to Find the Right Size for Your Parasol

When choosing a parasol, you’ll want to consider the size of your outdoor space and how much shade you need. If you have a larger space, such as a patio or deck, a larger parasol will provide you with ample shade while still being a stylish and decorative feature. If you have a smaller space, such as a deck or small patio, you may want to opt for a smaller parasol to save space and avoid blocking pathways.

Final Words

There are so many reasons to invest in a garden parasol. They provide shade and protection from the elements while letting you continue enjoying your outdoor space. They’re also a stylish addition to any outdoor space. There are several different varieties of parasols, each with its unique features. From the materials used to how it opens and its size, there are many things to consider when purchasing one for your backyard or garden. There are several key features you’ll want to look for when buying a garden parasol. First, consider the materials it’s made from. Most parasols are made from woven fabrics, such as cotton or polyester. Others are made from wood or metal. Then, consider the way it opens or closes. Does it have a crank or a pull cord? How many positions does it have? Is it easy to use and store? Next, consider the size of the parasol. Most parasols are available in a variety of sizes. If you have a large outdoor space, you may want to purchase a larger one. If you have a small patio or deck, a smaller size may be best for your needs. With so many options available, choosing the best one for your needs will be easy and make a great addition to your outdoor space.