The parasol: your best friend in summer
19.6.2017
Translation: machine translated
Whether it's the luxury or standard version for the beach; when the sun is shining high in the sky and summer is in full swing, the parasol is an important ally for the garden or terrace. You'll find the right parasol for your needs and the important points to consider before buying in the short guide below.
Right
The traditional model, the so-called straight parasol with a central foot, opens like an umbrella. It comes with a wooden or metal pole, with or without a crank. The bigger they are, the heavier they are. That's why a crank handle and steel cables are used to make it easier to open the larger models. When it comes to safety, these mechanisms are essential. In the event of a strong wind, you need to fold up and close the parasol as quickly as possible. The parasol stem should be able to rotate freely in the stand and have a tilting mechanism for comfortable protection when the sun is low in the sky. See all straight parasols
Offset
With an offset parasol, you no longer have an awkward pole in the centre which, depending on the outdoor layout, can be a great advantage. The canvas is suspended at the end of an arm and the table and chairs or deckchairs can be placed directly underneath. Offset parasols are almost exclusively opened and closed with a crank. They are more sensitive to the wind than upright parasols, so a heavy base is essential. Here, we recommend the usual granite or cement slabs.
Very large models should have a wind opening: it reduces wind pressure considerably and ensures greater stability. However, you can't leave the parasol open in windy conditions. Offset parasols come in different sizes and price classes. See all offset parasols
For the balcony
As a general rule, all parasols with the right size are made for balconies. However, their fixing system differs from parasols for terraces. On the balcony, we recommend using wall fixings and balustrades. A traditional stand can be awkward and take up unnecessary space. If you have a lot of space to spare, the pole should definitely have a tilting mechanism so that it can adapt to the position of the sun. For balconies and terraces, there are also half umbrellas that are placed on the wall and thus prevent the sun from "leaking". See all balcony parasols
For travel
Small, light and handy - these are certainly the most important features for these parasols. To avoid carrying too much weight, the parasol should above all be light. As a general rule, a straight parasol with a small diameter should suffice for swimming pool outings. Specially designed for lawns, practical spikes ensure good stability. See all beach umbrellas
Accessories
The stand should ideally be heavy, have a good grip and hold the parasol firmly. It's best to choose the size according to the measurements of your model. For small models, a plastic foot weighted down with water or sand is usually sufficient. Very heavy legs can sometimes leave scratches on the terrace if you drag them to move them. For sensitive floors, we recommend a stand with practical castors. This way, you can always adjust the parasol to suit the position of the sun. It is advisable to always ballast offset parasols with eight customary stone slabs. See all parasol accessories
Fabric quality
Depending on the model, the parasol fabric is made from cotton, linen or easy-care acrylic fibres. Fabrics should be marked "UPF 50+", which provides good sun protection, similar to that of a sun cream. The price difference often lies in the quality of the fabric. Top-of-the-range parasols are often worth the money, as they are fitted with top-of-the-range fabrics: with their tight weave and coating, they are more resistant to UV rays.
See all: shade awnings // shade sails
Header image: These colourful companions of Jankurtz provide the Rimini feeling on every beach.
David Widmer
Senior Trade Brand Manager
David.Widmer@digitecgalaxus.chI’m always looking out for new trends, true to the motto: «Decorate in a style today everyone will want tomorrow». As I have to take it down a notch at work, I express myself in my own home. It’s where you’ll find curiosities, collectables from faraway places and handmade things side by side. Interior design should always be personal and authentic – just like you are.
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