Patio Shade

A compact sun umbrella or a wall-mounted awning is usually best for a small deck. Both save floor space. Pick a 7 ft to 9 ft umbrella (2.1 m to 2.7 m). Choose a base that fits the pole. The canopy then covers the table without crowding the chairs.

An offset patio umbrella, also called a cantilever umbrella, hangs from a side pole instead of a centre pole. This leaves the area underneath open. It usually has a crank, tilt and rotation, and needs a heavy base or weight plates to stay stable.

A patio umbrella base should be heavy enough to hold the canopy in wind. Many centre-pole umbrellas need about 30 lb to 50 lb (14 kg to 23 kg). Cantilever umbrellas often need 100 lb (45 kg) or more once filled with water or sand.

Yes, a patio umbrella can attach to a deck with a deck-mount or rail-mount holder. A weighted base also works. Check your deck rules and the load rating first. A weighted base needs no drilling and moves easily.

A 10 ft (3 m) umbrella gives about 7 ft (2.1 m) of true shade at midday. The sun moves and the canopy tilts. Tilt the canopy through the day to follow the sun and keep the table covered.

No, take the canopy down for winter. Snow load and cold wind can bend ribs and tear fabric. Close the umbrella and remove the canopy if the model allows. Store it dry in a shed or garage until spring.