Adorable The Many Classifications of Patio Umbrellas

Because they're so wildly popular, patio umbrellas have been manufactured in a growing number of styles and designs. This is great for consumers like you, because it means that you never need to compromise. So long as you know what's out there, you can always find exactly what you need and want. There's a good deal of overlap between categories, too, as some of them define the material used in the umbrella while others deal with the style or shape. With this brief overview you'll be much better prepared for finding the perfect patio umbrella for your home.

Wooden Umbrellas
Wooden umbrellas are a great classic choice. These are denoted by wooden poles and ribs. Modern wooden patio umbrellas often have steel cores in the wood for added durability without detracting from the look and feel of the piece. These are more expensive, but counter the wooden umbrellas number one disadvantage - low durability.

Aluminum Umbrellas
Aluminum patio umbrellas have quickly become the material of choice for this backyard amenity. It's strong, tough, and durable, while at the same time being lightweight. You can even choose a finish in a variety of colors and textures to customize your umbrella to your patio. In addition, more expensive versions have fiberglass ribs for added wind resistance making them the hands down best for stormy or gusty areas.

Offset Umbrellas
Offset umbrellas are definitely the 'in' thing right now, mainly due to their look and feel. These are patio umbrellas that have the canopy center offset from the pole, which gives the overall piece extra style. The fact that they're offset means that you can easily move the shaded area to match exactly what you want to be protected from the sun. If you're going for an offset umbrella, make sure you choose a heavier base as the piece has different needs in terms of weight distribution.

Wall Mounted Umbrellas
The wall mounted umbrella is the perfect solution for those who are tight on space. By mounting the patio umbrella directly into the wall, you effectively eliminate the need for a stand. This clears up some extra space, letting you more effectively use your area.

Rectangular Umbrellas
It's a common misconception to think that all patio umbrellas are symmetrical. Not everything out there has a square or circular design for the canopy. Many models feature designs which use rectangular shapes for the canopy. If you have a unique space or are just a fan of asymmetry, this may be ideal for you.