How to Choose Beach Umbrellas

With the rise in the number of skin cancer patients, a beach umbrella will prove a wise choice while relaxing outdoors with the family. There are many varieties of beach umbrellas available online. Some of the many features of umbrellas include SPF protection and new, innovative clamps. These clamps are such that they will facilitate setting up the umbrellas almost anywhere without any difficulty.

You also have the choice of selecting between wooden and aluminum poles and a number of materials for canopies. Some people prefer slightly tilted beachside umbrellas. The umbrellas available nowadays are more accommodating than they were previously and are better designed to protect people from the sun’s damaging rays. Take your pick according to your needs.

Beach Umbrellas: Tips on Choosing

Beach umbrellas are a must if you want to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. However, there are a few points to remember while purchasing umbrellas:

Pole: A beach umbrella pole will generally come in two parts to facilitate easy transportation and storage. Folded umbrella length can vary between 24 and 58 inches. The pole diameter should be in between 1 and 1.5 inches. The higher the diameter, the better will be the strength of the pole. Aluminum poles should be preferred over all other materials, since this metal is rust-resistant and lightweight.

Fabric: Make sure that the fabric is durable. Acrylic makes the best material for umbrella canopies due to its weather resistant and colorfast qualities.

Frames: Also called ribs, the umbrella frames and spreaders must be made of fiberglass for flexibility. Fiberglass will not bend or twist out of shape and will keep the canopy from inverting easily during windy conditions. Steel ribs, although strong, will not prove durable, since they are prone to rusting unless galvanized.

Anchoring device: Beach umbrellas generally possess pointed bottom poles, which can be easily pushed into the sand. An anchoring device is a must to prevent the umbrella from toppling over.

Wind-stabilizing design: A wind vent at the canopy top will facilitate airflow and prevent the umbrella from inverting or being battered by winds. Look for umbrellas with larger wind vents for more air passage.

Beach Umbrellas: Options Available

Some of the types of umbrellas that can be used at the beachside include:

Solarteck: These remain stable even during very windy days due to their vented double canopy. Fiberglass frames ensure their flexibility and strength.

Clamp-On: These too can stand against strong winds. They can be easily clamped onto the chair.

Commercial quality umbrellas: Umbrellas are not just used in beaches. Break-resistant, fiberglass-ribbed umbrellas with sturdy wooden poles can be used in resorts and business locations.

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