Ultimate Garden Parasol Buying Guide - Elevate Your Outdoor Style!

Newlands Garden Centre is your one-stop destination for all your gardening and outdoor needs. If you're considering buying a parasol to enhance your outdoor space, we've got you covered. In this blog, we'll provide you with valuable tips on buying the perfect parasol and offer guidance on how to care for it, ensuring its longevity. With our expertise and a wide range of parasols available, Newlands Garden Centre is your go-to place for a delightful parasol shopping experience.

Parasols provide essential sun protection, shade, and comfort in outdoor settings. They shield against harmful UV rays, prevent sunburn, and create a cool area for relaxation or outdoor activities. They are also stylish accessories and commonly used in beach trips, outdoor dining, and garden decor.

Choosing the perfect parasol involves considering several factors. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Size: Determine the desired coverage area. Consider how many people or how much space you want to shade. Parasols come in various sizes, so choose one that suits your specific needs.
• Material: Look for a parasol made from durable and weather-resistant materials such as polyester or acrylic fabric. These materials should be able to withstand sun exposure and potential rain showers.
• Frame and Construction: Ensure the parasol has a sturdy and stable frame. Look for features like a strong pole, robust ribs, and a secure mechanism to open and close the parasol easily.
• Sun Protection: When the parasol is opened and positioned correctly, it creates a shaded area underneath, reducing direct exposure to the sun's rays. 
• Adjustability: Consider a parasol that offers adjustable features, such as a tilting mechanism or a height-adjustable pole. These features allow you to adapt the angle and position of the shade as the sun moves throughout the day.
• Portability: If you plan to move the parasol frequently or take it to different locations, choose a lightweight and easily portable option. Look for a parasol that is collapsible and comes with a carrying bag or strap for convenience.
• Style and Design: Parasols come in various designs, colours, and patterns. Select one that matches your personal taste and complements your outdoor setting or fashion preferences.

There are various types of parasols available, each with its unique design, functionality, and purpose. Here are some different types of parasols:

1. Cantilever Parasol: Also known as offset or side-arm parasols, cantilever parasols have a side pole design that allows for flexible positioning and shading without a centre pole obstructing the shaded area.
2. Wall- mounted Parasol: It is designed for narrow terraces or balconies, this parasol can be fixed on to a wall and adjusted to find the perfect shade, thanks to the rotating bracket and mobile arm.
3. Upright Parasols: Suitable for the centre of a four-, six- or eight-seater suite of furniture. The pole sits in the centre of the table which gives it it’s stability. With its unique design, it stands vertically on a sturdy pole, allowing for easy adjustment and positioning. The purpose of an upright parasol is to offer shade for outdoor activities, such as picnics, garden parties, or beach outings, ensuring comfort and protection under the sun.

These are just a few examples of the different types of parasols available. Each type caters to specific needs, environments, and preferences, providing shade and protection in various settings.

To choose the perfect colour for a parasol in your garden, consider the following:

Match with existing colour scheme, create a harmonious or contrasting look, consider the ambiance you want to create, assess practicality (light or dark colours), and personal preference. Select a colour that enhances your garden's aesthetics and complements the overall ambiance and style.

Check out our range of different parasol categories, many of which are ordered by colour!

Finding the suitable parasol size and base that fits your requirements:

To determine the right size of a parasol, consider the desired coverage area and the number of people you want to shade. Measure the available space and choose a size that provides adequate shade and fits well within your outdoor setting.

The correct base weight is essential to keep the parasol stable, especially when you have one of the large, cantilevered type parasols.

Smaller parasols with a pole of less than 42mm that will be positioned through the centre of the table usually work well with the smaller 11kg or 20kg base. This should be enough to keep the parasol stable. For parasols that stand separate from your garden furniture with a diameter of more than 42mm, you need a base of at least 25kg. Always remember to tighten the screw at the base of the parasol to ensure that the parasol remains stable if there is a sudden gust of wind; if the wind picks up it is safer to take down the parasol altogether.

 In conclusion, when purchasing a parasol at Newlands Garden Centre, it is beneficial to follow these tips to make an informed decision. Consider factors such as size, sun protection, adjustability, portability and style that are available at Newlands Garden Centre. By doing so, you can choose a high-quality parasol that suits your needs, enhances your outdoor space, and ensures an enjoyable and shaded experience.