In hot summer, you want to enjoy some outdoor summer, but you find the sun scorching. This is when you will need a garden parasol to protect you from the sun. Parasols enable you to relax in a cool, customized shade while you enjoy the fantastic moments. Umbrellas come in different sizes, colors, and styles that will suit your preferences. They are of two types; the foldable and non-foldable parasols. They are made of fabric or flexible plastic and supported by plastic, wood, or metal poles. You require a parasol base for stability.
How do you choose a garden parasol base?
There are many factors to consider when buying a garden parasol base. Below are some key factors that you should look at before purchasing the umbrella.
- Installation requirements
- Type
- Design and material
- Frame material
- Other factors
You need to observe the size and specifications of your garden before identifying the appropriate parasol base. The amount of space available will determine how big or small a parasol base you will buy. Ensure the installation is effective and firm to prevent it from being blown away by the wind. Ground sleeve bases are the best since they are firm.
You can choose a push umbrella or crank umbrella for your garden setup. The base of the parasol will depend whether you want it raised or lower. The type of shade will also enable you to control the amount of sun you get; thus, you need to invest in heavy aluminum parasol bases.
To avert adverse weather, you will need a high-quality and long-lasting parasol base. The material used is vital since you find some umbrellas are very light that they get damaged by the wind thus need a strong holding ground.
Most garden bases and frame material include; wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. If you want durable, attractive, cheap, and, non-corrosive frames use aluminum. Wood frames are heavy and must be treated for outdoor use though they are not as durable and suitable for harsh weather as aluminum frames. Fiberglass frames are lightweight, long lasting, non-corrosive, and resistant to wind.
- Price of the parasol base
- Ability to tilt
- Method of installation
- Stability
Types of parasol bases
- Ground sleeves
- Movable bases
- Base plates
To withstand strong winds, you need to fix the umbrella firmly and secure. Ground sleeves offer the most secure base for parasol’s stability. The ground sleeves should be attached into the ground to ensure it has extra support from the strongest winds. Ground sleeves are also tidy and take up very little space.
These are the best bases for areas leased, conservation areas and those areas near listed buildings. The adjustable bases are galvanized with steel frames filled with a thick concrete slab which provides an option of moving the parasol. Buy a Jarder Parasol Base for maximum comfort.
The base plates are used where there is an existing solid foundation. The areas should be four or more metres squared with a 15 centimetres deep foundation. The Sekey metal universal base plate is bolted down to the foundation. It has a support tube where the umbrella is placed.
How to keep parasols from falling over
- Keep the umbrella closed
- Using a heavy base
- Strengthen the ribs
- Look for the air vent
- Buying durable tables
If the parasols are not in use, make sure they are closed. It will reduce the risk of damage caused by a falling umbrella. The code should be tied tightly around the fabric to prevent it from opening. Alternatively, you can buy a Kingfisher parasol cover to cover the umbrella from falling off.
A sturdy and heavy base will provide stability for the parasol. A base made up of cement of granite is the best. Some umbrellas will come with the support and some you will need to buy.
Wooden rings give the parasol a classic look but break easily more so during strong winds. Use aluminum material which is reliable and long-lasting.
Umbrellas have an air canopy at the top that vents out air. This will ensure a smooth flow of air and reduce the chances of inversion.
A table surrounds the parasols is vital for holding your drinks as you enjoy the sun. Purchasing a more solid and stable Do4U round umbrella table will provide support, thus giving a long-lasting solution.
How to clean a garden parasol
Since parasols are set up outside and in the garden, they are subject to a lot of dirt. The heavy winds also carry some dust which falls on the umbrella. Birds can even piss on them hence need for regular cleaning. Here is the cleaning process.
- Remove the umbrella from the base
- Lay it on a flat and clean surface facing upwards. Check and ensure that the surface is smooth not to damage the parasol.
- Spray some warm water on the surface of the parasol. Add some detergent and using a soft sponge, scrub the dirt gently on both the outer and inner surface of the umbrella.
- After a thorough cleaning, rinse the umbrella with clear water on both sides to remove soap.
- Check the parasol to ensure that all the dirt is wiped out.
- Identify a clean and dry place where the parasol can receive direct sun and lay it to dry.
- After the parasol is dry, set it up in its location and continue enjoying the shade.
Conclusion
If you want to enjoy the windy and breezy weather, consider using a parasol in the garden or patio. You should keep the parasol safe by providing it with a strong base.