Sunday, July 24, 2011

Umbrella Fabric Choices

Umbrella Fabric Choices

Patio Umbrellas at Odyssey HomestoreIt’s hard enough trying to figure out which umbrella to buy … “What size do I need?” … “Should I get wood or aluminum?” … “Should I get a crank or pulley lift system?” … “What about tilt?” … really, the list goes on and on. But finally, you’ve decided all of the features that will suit you. Then you still have to ask yourself one more question: “What kind of fabric should I get on my umbrella?”

If you’re just going to a Big Box store you’ll have to take what they offer. There are few choices, especially when it comes to features and canopy colors. But if you’re a discriminating buyer looking for a special color to compliment your patio furniture and yard, then you’ll have to special order your umbrella off of one of the many stores online that offer customized options, such as Odyssey Homestore®.

So, we’ve made it pretty simple for you to figure out which type of fabric will best suit your needs. As you read on, the list begins with the least expensive to the most expensive fabrics available on the market today for your umbrella.

Spun Polyester:

This fabric is made of 100% polyester yarns and can be used both indoors and out. They are easily cleaned with a mild detergent and water then allowed to air dry. DO NOT subject the fabric to water temperature in excess of 100°F or use bleach-based or harsh cleaning products on this type of fabric. Generally, spun polyester fabrics on umbrellas will last a good many years, IF you bring the umbrella in when you’re not using it. The color is silk-screen onto the fabric giving you almost limitless color choices, however, it is NOT warranted against fading so if you plan on leaving it out year round, this is not the best choice. If budget is a major concern, this is the most affordable umbrella fabric available on the market. There is no UV Protection with this fabric.

Coolaroo Offset Patio Umbrella at Odyssey HomestoreCoolaroo

One of the more affordable quality umbrella fabrics is Coolaroo. It is the ideal outdoor shade fabric. The secret is the unique Coolaroo fabric that blocks 90% of the sun’s harmful UV rays, yet breathes to reduce temperatures. And because Coolaroo fabric won’t rot, tear or fade, your umbrella will last for years—making it a better value. Coolaroo fabric comes with a 10 year warranty that protects against UV degradation, manufacturer's defects, and material. We love recommending this product, but the only drawback is the lack of color options: you have a choice of only 3 contemporary colors to choose from: mocha, smoke or sunset. However, don’t let that be a drawback. Neutral fabrics will coordinate beautifully with any color scheme. If you want to add pops of color, pick up some colorful throw pillows and your backyard will have an upscale, polished look you’ll be so proud of!

Glen Tuff Olefin

Glen Tuff Olefin fabrics are woven with 100% solution-dyed olefin yarn. This means that the color is dyed into the fabrics before the fabric is woven. As a comparison, many times fabrics such as polyester are woven in either white or off-white and then silk screened with color, which may lead to rapid fading in a hot, strong sun. Glen Tuff Olefin is soft & comfortable, and resists stains, mildew and fading. Olefin fabrics are exclusively designed for outdoor use. This type of fabric may be cleaned with a mild detergent and warm water. Make sure you rinse thoroughly and allow the fabric to air dry. This fabric has a one year warranty against fading, and is a good mid-grade choice for umbrellas and outdoor cushions. This fabric has not been rated for UV Protection.

Umbrella Fabric Choices at Odyssey HomestoreSunbrella and Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics

Sunbrella is a synthetic acrylic material used in making many outdoor products including, of course, patio umbrella canopies. A Sunbrella Umbrella is any umbrella that is made with the world most famous brand of outdoor fabrics, Sunbrella. One of the main features of this type of fabric is that Sunbrella is fade-resistant, stain-resistant, mold and mildew resistant and entirely livable. Sunbrella's fabrics are worry-free and incredibly long lasting. Whether you choose the lightest color white to the darkest black, Sunbrella fabrics are tough enough to withstand the extremes of Mother Nature along with all the little accidents that come from everyday living. Sunbrella's rich fabrics will remain beautiful year after year. And, something to consider, make sure when you buy a Sunbrella Umbrella, the umbrella frame is replaceable! Your Sunbrella canopy may very well outlast your umbrella frame! You’ve already spent a good chunk of change on your outdoor furniture, so make sure you compliment it with the best umbrella fabric you can, one that will enjoy for many years.

Sunbrella fabrics have been tested and proven to provide up to 98% UV protection from harmful effects of the sun when used in shade applications. Sunbrella fabrics have been awarded the "Seal of Recommendation" by The Skin Cancer Foundation, an international organization dedicated to the prevention of skin cancer (www.skincancer.org). Whites and lighter colored fabrics provide less protection than darker fabrics, which have more depth of color. This protective factor is inherent to the product and will not be reduced by usage and/or fabric exposure to the sun.

When you need the best quality outdoor fabric for your umbrella, Sunbrella fabrics can make it happen with quality style and flare. Sunbrella fabrics are durable, beautiful, and comfortable.

Odyssey Homestore® carries umbrellas with all of the above fabrics and features, plus replacement canopies. If you have any questions, please call our umbrella specialist Monday through Sunday, 7am - 7pm at (888) 564 - 4744. We offer legendary customer service and products! And with our Price Match Plus policy, you're guaranteed the lowest price on

No comments:

Post a Comment