If your patio doesn’t have a roof over it, you know that it makes it next to impossible to sit outside during hot days with the sun beating down on you, you will be miserable. One way that you can still enjoy your patio is to use a patio umbrella.

Patio umbrellas come in many different styles and designs so you will be sure to be able to find the perfect umbrella for your patio or deck.

You can choose from different types of umbrellas for your patio. There are umbrellas that will fit in the center of the table, many outdoor tables has an opening especially just for umbrellas. This will keep shade at the table when you don’t want to sit in the sunlight. You can control when you want the shade simply by opening and closing the umbrella during the day.

How to determine the size of the umbrella that you need is easy. You will want to measure from the center of the table to the end of the table and add 4 feet or so to that measurement. This will allow you and your guests to be in the shade with the umbrella when you are sitting at the table.

You can choose from metal frames or wooden frames. It will depend on which one you like better, and which one will blend in with your patio furniture. If you have wood patio furniture you will want to purchase a wood patio umbrella.

With the metal frame umbrella you may be able to use a push button that you can open and close the umbrella with one push of the button.

If your patio umbrella tilts you will have an advantage and get more use out of your patio because you can block the sun from different directions during different parts of the day.

Choosing umbrella material you will want fabric that is durable such as canvas. This type of material will withstand the harsh elements outside and will stand up longer than most other material. For extra protection you can apply products like Scotchgard to keep it waterproof.

Patio umbrellas are not always found around patio tables. You can purchase umbrellas that are free standing. These can be set up anywhere around the patio where ever you want shade from the sun. Most people will set these up around seating.

You have many different options to choose from when getting a patio umbrella. You will want to make sure that it’s large enough to give you the shade that you need. Take the measurements to the store with you when you go to purchase the correct one.

Want to find out more about backyard patio living, then visit Jackie’s site on how to choose the best patio umbrellas for your needs.