Once you’ve decided on an outdoor umbrella, you’ll need to get a base for it. The base is necessary to hold the umbrella upright, stabilize it, and keep it from blowing away. There are many different kinds of bases available at a variety of price points. So how do you know which one to choose? Here are some pointers to help make sure you get the right outdoor umbrella base.
Freestanding vs. table supported
Outdoor umbrellas can be used either freestanding or with the pole secured through a hole in the center of a table. Since a table adds weight and surrounds the pole, it is a lot harder for the umbrella to go anywhere and a lighter base can be used. If the umbrella is freestanding, the base will need to be considerably heavier to keep the umbrella from tipping or blowing away.
Size
There are a few size considerations when choosing an outdoor umbrella base. The first is the size of the umbrella. The larger the diameter of the umbrella, the heavier it will be and the heavier the base will need to be to keep it in place.
You will also need to know the diameter of the pole. There is no standard size, so make sure the base you are interested in can accommodate the pole.
The last size consideration applies to umbrellas that will have the pole coming through a hole in the table. Whatever base is used with this umbrella will have to fit in the space under the table without hitting the table or taking up so much space that using the table is difficult.
Styles and materials
There are many styles and materials to choose from. The least expensive bases are made from plastic resin and filled with sand or water on site. These bases tend to be bulky, unattractive, inconvenient, and usually support only smaller umbrellas. Luckily there are a lot of better alternatives. You can get something that looks stylish and does a great job of holding your outdoor umbrella in place.
Other materials include concrete, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum or natural stone (such as granite, slate or marble). Some bases are also made out of a combination of materials such as concrete filled metal. Your choice of materials will to some extent be determined by how heavy of a base is needed and how much you want to pay for it. Concrete, cast iron, or natural stone are appropriate for a heavier weight but are usually more expensive than plastic.
Umbrella bases come in both plain and decorative styles. Cast iron bases tend to be ornate. Mosaic styles are solid concrete with a decorative stone mosaic over it. Some styles have designs molded into them. Bases are generally round or square and most are available in several colors or finishes to compliment your decor.
Other convenient features
Other features you might want are wheels and a handle. These are convenient if you need to move furniture indoors for the winter or if you need to rearrange it. Wheels are often located under the base and lock to keep it in place. They can also be side mounted. A pull out handle will make things even easier.
Getting the right outdoor umbrella base will help keep your umbrella in good condition. Cabana Coast has several stylish and functional options for umbrellas and bases that can fit in with most any home or commercial décor. Browse our website to see all the options!