A patio umbrella is a highly sought-after outdoor accessory, and for good reasons – it not only protects you from the blistering summer heat but also serves an aesthetic purpose for your patio.

Patio umbrellas are available in various sizes, and this article will guide you on how to measure patio umbrella size and select one which is the perfect fit.

Measuring Patio Umbrella Size:

When we talk about the ‘size’ of a patio umbrella, we are essentially referring to its width and not its height. This is how you can measure a patio umbrella:

Step 1: Open the patio umbrella, and make sure that it is extended to its limit.

Step 2: The next step is measuring the umbrella from its peak along one of the arms or ribs extending from the central hub.

Step 3: Measure the distance from the hub to the end of the arm or rib.

Step 4: Take the number you came up with in step 3 and double it – the resulting number is the patio umbrella’s size.

Patio Umbrella Diameter and Pole Height:

The patio umbrella’s diameter is a crucial factor since it will determine your umbrella’s stability. For optimum stability, make sure to keep the base and pole diameters as close as possible without compromising the fitting.

So, if you have an umbrella with a base diameter of 1.5″, you will want your pole to have at least the same diameter, and at most 0.25″ more. As a rule of thumb, remember that the base diameter should not exceed the pole diameter by more than 0.25″.

You would also want to pay close attention to the umbrella height and get one with sufficient clearance – you do not want your taller family members or guests to stoop uncomfortably in order to get a bit of shade from the umbrella. At the same time, you do not want the height to be too much.

Typically, umbrellas that are at least 7 feet tall are good choices. There are patio umbrellas that come with cantilever and tilting functions that allow you to adjust the direction of the shade.

‘Crank Height’ – Another Crucial Measurement:

You need to be aware of a patio umbrella’s ‘crank height’ if you want to purchase it for a more elevated table.

The umbrella’s crank height is the distance from its cranking mechanism (if there is one) to the base of the pole.

Choosing the Right-Sized Patio Umbrella:

Size and shape are the two most important considerations when purchasing a patio umbrella. An easy rule of thumb to follow is that the patio umbrella should be extending over your table by a couple of feet on every side. Ideally, you should look for a patio umbrella that has a shape identical to that of your table (for example, if you have a circular table, a circular patio umbrella will prove most effective).

Small Patio Umbrella Types:

1)      6 to 6.5 feet wide:

• Suitable for tables having a maximum width of 30 feet.
• Needs an umbrella stand size weighing a maximum of 35 lbs.
• Go well with outdoor bistro sets.

2)      7 to 7.5 feet wide:

• Suitable for tables that are 35 to 48 inches wide.
• Needs an umbrella stand weighing at least between 35 and 55 lbs.
• Goes well with a lounge chair, chaise lounge, or a patio dining set for four people.

Medium Patio Umbrella Types:

1)      8 to 8.5 feet wide:

• Suitable for tables having a maximum width of 54 inches.
• Needs an umbrella stand weighing at least between 40 and 60 lbs.
• Goes well with a small outdoor sofa or sectional, or a patio dining set for four to six people.

2)      9 to 9.5 feet wide:

• Suitable for tables having a maximum width of 62 inches.
• Needs an umbrella stand weighing at least between 65 and 75 lbs.
• Goes well with a chaise lounge or a patio conversation set, or a patio dining set for six people.

Large Patio Umbrella Types:

1)      11 to 11.5 feet wide:

• Suitable for tables having a maximum width of 84 inches.
• Needs an umbrella stand weighing at least between 65 to 75 lbs.
• Goes well with a patio conversation set, or a dining set for at least six to eight people.

2)      12 feet and wider:

Almost all umbrellas in this category are referred to as ‘cantilever patio umbrellas,’ meaning that supportive freestanding poles are placed sidewards rather than in the center.

• Needs an umbrella stand weighing at least 75 lbs. It might require anchoring to the ground or a bit of extra sand to strengthen the base.
• Works well as a pool umbrella; perfect for outdoor arrangements.

In conclusion, it is vital that you choose a patio umbrella with the right size, and we hope that this guide will serve as an invaluable resource in helping you determine that right size.