As soon as spring begins, people are magically drawn outside into the sun. They play sports, relax in cafés in the sunshine, and the first sun-seekers lie out in the blazing sun to get a tan. Very often, the strength of the radiation is underestimated and painful sunburns are the result. The numbers of skin cancer are rising. What many do not know or consider: You also get a tan in the shade, albeit more slowly, but in a healthier and longer-lasting way. Therefore, it is essential to have a good parasol at home, ideally with a UV-protection coating. Here are a few more tips on choosing the right parasol for anyone still looking for shade.
What is important when choosing a parasol?
UV protection and stability are important. All other criteria depend on the location of use and personal taste. While some prefer a parasol with paper fringes because it reminds them of a Caribbean vacation, others value an extravagant design that better suits their architect-designed house.
There are people who feel uncomfortable with sharp corners; they tend to choose a round model, while others value a large shaded area and choose a rectangular market umbrella.
But regardless of whether it is colorful or plain, large or small, the first step is to think about the installation location and the umbrella technology.
Center-pole parasol or cantilever parasol?
The Center-pole parasol is the classic among parasols. It is available in round, square, or rectangular shapes and has a support column in the middle. This is usually made of aluminum or coated metal. In more expensive models, however, it is also made of teak or stainless steel. Since this part ensures the stability of the parasol, high-quality workmanship is important.
If the center-pole parasol is used for a table that already has a pre-cut parasol hole in the middle, you should choose a round model. With square umbrellas, the corner struts are often too long if you want to fold the umbrella in the evening.
If it is a parasol for a roof terrace or balcony, the cantilever parasol model is already ruled out. As a rule, these umbrellas are very large and therefore a welcome plaything for the wind. Even a very heavy stand won't help there.
Otherwise, the cantilever parasol is popular because it can stand to the side of the table or sun lounger and thus does not limit the space. It usually has a large fabric surface. However, one should keep in mind that the cantilever parasol also requires a large, heavy parasol stand, which is difficult to move.
Both umbrella models are available to buy with different opening mechanisms: Classic opening by pushing up the center part, using a pull cord, or with the help of a crank.
The parasol stand
The A parasol stand is just as important as the parasol itself. Only when the two are matched to each other will the parasol remain stable even in the wind. High-quality models are easy to transport from A to B thanks to wheels, such as the mobile Liro parasol stand, and good stands are also made of high-quality materials that can withstand bad weather. It should also be possible to match the color of the parasol stand with the rest of the patio furniture.
The material of the parasol
Anyone who wants to protect themselves from sunburn with the help of a parasol should look for a high-quality UV coating. Experts recommend a sun protection factor between 60 and 80. For parasols, this is referred to as UV protection 50+ . Polyester is well-suited as a material.
Polyester parasols are usually water-repellent, do not fade as quickly under solar radiation, and are also easy to clean at the end of the season.Caring for the parasol
It is important for the material to clean the parasol of bird droppings and dust at least at the end of the season. As a rule, a soft sponge and a not-too-stiff brush are sufficient for this. You should use clear water for this. Only for very stubborn stains can a little liquid soap help. However, you should be very sparing with it.
A parasol is not just about casting shade and protection from sunburn. A parasol on the terrace creates a
Conclusion
cozy, inviting atmosphere.As soon as spring begins, people are magically drawn outside into the sun. They play sports, relax in cafés in the sunshine, and the first sun-seekers lie out in the blazing sun to get a tan. Very often, the strength of the radiation is underestimated and painful sunburns are the result.
