Patio umbrella: what size fits
A parasol that is two hand-widths too small is a nuisance every summer. You move the table, you move the stand, and in the end, someone is still sitting in the sun. Size is therefore the most important decision when buying a parasol, even before color and frame. Here is our rule of thumb from many years of consulting in Wasserburg.
Measure the area first, then choose the parasol
Measure the area that really needs to be in the shade: the dining table with all the chairs pushed back, or the lounge area including the side table. Add about 50 centimeters to each side. The sun is never directly above the parasol, so the shadow moves throughout the afternoon. A parasol that is exactly the same size as the table will only shade it around midday.
Guidelines for tables and lounge areas
- Bistro table for two people: a round parasol with a diameter of 210 to 250 centimeters is sufficient.
- Dining table for four to six people, about 140 to 180 centimeters long: round 300 to 350 centimeters or square 300 by 300 centimeters.
- Large table for eight people, 220 centimeters or longer: rectangular 300 by 400 centimeters or round from 400 centimeters upwards.
- Lounge group with sofa and armchairs: square 350 by 350 or 400 by 400 centimeters, so that the backrests also remain in the shade.
Rectangular parasols suit elongated tables, while round parasols suit round tables and open spaces in the garden. A square parasol is the most versatile compromise because it fits well against a house wall or railing on the terrace.
Center pole or cantilever parasol
A parasol with a center pole stands directly next to or in the table and takes up little space. The Klassiker parasol from Weishäupl is available in round sizes from 210 to 500 centimeters and square sizes up to 400 by 400 centimeters, with a tilt function and pulley system for the low-lying evening sun. If you want to keep the table area clear, opt for a cantilever parasol: the mast stands to the side, the shade covers the seating area, and no one bumps into it when standing up. You can find an overview of all models in our cantilever parasols collection.
When the terrace is large
For terraces of 20 square meters or more, for catering businesses, or for the pool, a large parasol is worth the investment. The telescopic parasol covers a diameter of 500 centimeters or 400 by 400 centimeters and can still be operated by one person. Even larger are the parasols from Bahama and Caravita, which reach edge lengths of up to twelve meters. From this size upwards, we will plan the anchoring together with you, as the wind load increases accordingly.
The stand is also a factor
A stand that is too light makes even the best parasol insecure. As a rough guideline: for a diameter of up to 300 centimeters, about 40 kilograms is sufficient; for 350 to 400 centimeters, it should be 60 to 90 kilograms; cantilever parasols require even more weight or a ground socket. We stock suitable parasol stands, base plates, and ground sockets for every model. If you use the parasol in the same spot permanently, a cemented-in ground socket is the best option: nothing gets in the way, and the parasol sits firmly.
Fabric and care
Acrylic fabrics are lightfast, water-repellent, and last for many years. At Weishäupl, you can choose from a large selection of fabric colors, from natural to sand to fir green. After the season, the parasol should be stored dry under a protective cover, so it will still look good in its fifth summer.
Unsure about the size
Send us a photo of your terrace and the dimensions of your table to info@huber-lebensgefuehl.de. We will tell you which size is right and deliver from Wasserburg am Inn to the entire region, with installation of the stand or ground socket upon request. You can also see the parasols opened up in our showroom.
