Summer's here and its time to bring out the patio furniture
and settle down for languorous afternoons sipping iced tea or
reading or just dozing in the sun. One component of patio furniture
is the colorful patio umbrella. But even these seemingly simple
umbrellas come in a variety of sizes, fabrics and frames!
Patio umbrellas usually have two types of frames --- metal or
wood. Umbrellas with metal frames, usually aluminum, can be rotated
to suit your convenience but this is usually not possible with
the ones having wooden frames. The frames are available ain various
shades. At times you can purchase the frame and the canopy separately
and thus have an umbrella of a design you want. You can also choose
between the freestanding kind or tabletops, which are affixed
through a hole in the table. Getting an umbrella of the right
size is also essential to get the right shade for your outdoor
space. For this, you need to measure the available space and decide
what size and height suits you best.
The umbrella canopy comes in different colors and patterns. Most
are weather and UV resistant, but confirm it to be on the safe
side. Breathable fabrics help keep the heat away and avoid dark
colors that are more likely to absorb heat. Avoiding fringes on
the canopy will prove easier to maintain in the long run. A good
base is required to keep the umbrella in place even on those blustery
days. Bases can be found in stone, concrete and sand filled plastic.
Depending upon the type of frame and the fabric, a patio umbrella
can cost you anywhere from $ 50 to $500. Size also determines
price to some extent. To ensure a long life for your patio umbrellas,
never store them away when damp or wet. This brings the mildew
and by the time you next open it, your umbrella will have lost
all its beauty and color.
Tropitone - manufactures
outdoor patio furniture made of teak, cast and extruded aluminum,
and market umbrellas.
Ultimate Patio Products
- offers an all-in-one aluminum patio table that contains a fireplace,
grill, flower pot, and ice bucket.
Valley U.S.A. - designer
and manufacturer of outdoor hardwood furniture.
Vermont Outdoor
Furniture - offers northern white cedar outdoor furniture,
including benches, chairs, tables, gliders, and more.
Wood Carver Inc.
- specializing in teak and mahogany mantles and outdoor furniture.
Wood Country, Inc.
- provides a line of outdoor furniture including: benches, chairs,
tables, swings, and accessories made from clear, kiln-dried western
red cedar.
Trip Trap Denmark - offers
garden and indoor furniture, floors, and accessories in high quality
wood all in classic Danish design.