How to measure a parasol?a comprehensive guide to choosing the most suitable size

Choosing the right size parasol is crucial to creating a comfortable outdoor space. Whether you want to provide shade for your patio, garden, beach or campsite, measuring your parasol correctly can ensure that it is both beautiful and practical. Today, we're going to detail how to accurately measure your parasol to help you make the best choice.

1.Understand the basic size of a parasol

Before buying a parasol, it is important to first understand a few key dimensions of the parasol. The size of the umbrella usually refers to the diameter of the umbrella, that is, the maximum width of the umbrella cloth. In addition to the diameter of the umbrella surface, there are other factors to consider, such as the height of the umbrella rod, the length of the umbrella bone, and so on.

The main sunshade sizes include:

a) Umbrella diameter:

This is the most common representation of size, indicating the maximum width of the parasol spread.

b) Umbrella stand/stand height: 

The total height of the umbrella determines how high the top of the umbrella is from the ground.

c) Length of umbrella:

 The umbrella is the skeleton part that supports the structure of the umbrella, and the length of the umbrella affects the Angle and range of the umbrella.

2.How to measure the diameter of the parasol

The diameter of the umbrella surface is the most critical size when purchasing a parasol, which determines the area that the umbrella surface can cover. Here is how to accurately measure the diameter of the umbrella surface:

a) Open the parasol: 

First open the parasol completely. Make sure that the umbrella cloth is flat and not wrinkled or compressed, so that the measurement results will be more accurate.

b) Use a tape measure or ruler: 

Use a tape measure to start at the center point of the umbrella surface and measure horizontally to the edge of the umbrella surface. For a circular surface, measure a straight line through the center of the umbrella, covering the entire surface, which is the diameter of the umbrella.

c) Measure multiple directions:

If the umbrella faces are not perfectly symmetrical (such as some parasols may be elliptical), the diameter needs to be measured from different directions. For example, from one side to the other, from opposite sides, etc., choose the longest diameter as the umbrella surface size.

3.How to measure the height of the parasol frame

The height of the umbrella frame affects the shading effect of the umbrella and the comfort of the shaded area. Especially for large umbrellas or vertical umbrellas, the height of the umbrella frame is very important. Here's how to measure it:

a) Vertical measurement:

Measure the tape vertically from the ground to the top of the umbrella stand. It is important to note that the sunshade bracket may have different adjustments, such as adjustment rods or Angle adjusters, which can affect the height of the umbrella frame.

b) Adjusting the height of the umbrella stand: 

If the umbrella has an adjusting rod, the height of the umbrella stand can be adjusted according to actual needs. Generally, the higher the height of the umbrella stand, the larger the coverage area of the shading area.

The height of the standard umbrella stand is usually between 2.5 meters and 3 meters, which is suitable for most family courtyards or terraces.

4.Measure the length of the umbrella bones

The length of the umbrella has a direct effect on the supporting stability of the umbrella and the spreading effect of the umbrella surface. The longer the umbrella, the more open the umbrella surface, the better the shading effect.

a) Measure the length of the umbrella:

 the umbrella is the connection between the umbrella surface and the support. Measure the tape from the bottom of the umbrella stand to the edge of the umbrella. Make sure to measure the length of each umbrella bone, especially for large parasols or multi-frame designs.

In general, the length of the umbrella is usually adjusted according to the size and design of the umbrella. Long umbrella is suitable for large area shade, suitable for courtyards, large terraces and other places.

5.Measure the support structure and foundation of the parasol

In addition to the umbrella surface, umbrella frame and umbrella bone, the support structure and base of the umbrella are also important size indicators. Here are some key points for measuring support structures:

a) Base weight: 

The weight of the base directly affects the stability of the parasol, especially in windy environments. In general, the weight of the base should match the size of the umbrella.

The diameter and depth of the base: the diameter and depth of the base determine the stability of the sunshade, and the larger the base, the more stable it is. Depending on the size of the umbrella, the weight of the base is usually between 25 kg and 100 kg, depending on the size of the umbrella.

6.Choose the right shade size

Choosing the right shade size should not only consider the diameter of the umbrella surface, but also make decisions based on the use of the environment, shading needs and aesthetic style.

a) Small sunshade: 

suitable for balconies, terraces or small courtyards, the umbrella surface diameter is generally between 1.5 and 2.5 meters.

b) Medium shade umbrella:

suitable for family garden or table, umbrella surface diameter is generally between 2.5 meters and 3.5 meters.

c) Large sunshade:

suitable for large courtyards, terraces or outdoor gathering places, the umbrella surface diameter is usually between 3.5 meters to 4 meters, or even larger.

7.Summarize

Measuring the correct size of your parasol is key to making sure it fits in your outdoor space. By accurately measuring the diameter of the umbrella, the height of the frame, the length of the umbrella, and the support structure, you can choose a parasol that provides plenty of shade and blends perfectly with your outdoor environment.