Stay Cool: A Guide to Garden Parasols and Shade Solutions
From classic centre-post parasols to cantilever umbrellas, shade sails and gazebos — here’s how to pick the right shade, size the canopy, choose a safe base and keep everything in top shape.
Last updated: 16 August 2025 • Written for UK customers
1) Shade types at a glance
Centre-post parasols (upright)
Affordable and simple for dining tables or standalone bases. Look for vented canopies and easy tilting.
Cantilever parasols (overhanging)
Great coverage without a central pole blocking the table. Many offer multi-position tilt and 360° rotation.
Shade sails (fixed coverage)
Architectural look, great for patios and play areas. Choose triangle or rectangle and tension properly.
Gazebos & pergolas (semi-permanent)
Best for creating a dedicated outdoor room or BBQ shelter. Check roof style, drainage and fixings.
2) Size & placement guide
Measure your area, note traffic paths and allow comfortable chair movement. For dining, place the pole through the table (centre-post) or beside the set (cantilever) so everyone gets shade without a blocked view.
| Table size / seats | Typical round canopy | Good alternatives | Placement tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bistro / 2 seats | ~2.0–2.2 m | Small triangle shade sail | Keep pole clear of door swings; use compact base. |
| 4 seats | ~2.2–2.7 m | Square 2.5–2.7 m; cantilever for offset shade | Leave ~75–90 cm chair clearance all round. |
| 6–8 seats | ~3.0 m+ | 3 m cantilever; rectangle sail; gazebo | Position to avoid umbrella ribs clashing with chairs. |
Tip: If your space is irregular or you need all-day coverage, a cantilever parasol with multi-position tilt or a pergola/gazebo can be easier than moving a centre-post model repeatedly.
3) Bases & weights (safety first)
Choose a base matched to pole diameter and canopy size. On exposed patios, go heavier and use vented canopies. Cantilever models need dedicated cross-base weights.
For centre-post parasols
For cantilever parasols
Always close the canopy in strong wind. Follow the specific weight guidance shown on your product page.
4) Setup, wind & care tips
Setup & daily use
- Position with the hinge/tilt away from prevailing winds.
- Use a vented canopy and don’t over-tighten guy lines on sails (allow some give).
- For dining, align the pole or cantilever arm so chairs don’t hit ribs when pushed back.
Care
- Brush off dust, then clean with mild soapy water and rinse.
- Dry fully before covering; use breathable covers to avoid trapping moisture.
- Store canopies and cushions in outdoor storage between uses.
5) Quick comparison
| Shade type | Best for | Pros | Consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centre-post parasol | Tables & small patios | Affordable, simple, table-hole compatible | Central pole can obstruct; needs suitable base |
| Cantilever parasol | Large sets & lounge areas | No central pole, broad adjustable shade | Requires heavy cross-base weights; larger footprint |
| Shade sail | Semi-permanent zones | Wide coverage, sleek look, no base needed | Needs secure mounting points & proper tension |
| Gazebo/pergola | All-weather entertaining | Room-like feel, rain protection (model-dependent) | Higher cost; assembly & fixings required |
6) FAQs
What size garden parasol do I need for my table?
Aim for a canopy that extends roughly 50–70 cm beyond the table edge, allowing 75–90 cm for chairs to slide back. For 6–8 seats, consider a 3 m cantilever for flexible coverage.
Do I need a special base for a cantilever parasol?
Yes. Use dedicated cross-base weights like these 4-piece fillable slabs, or a wheeled cross-base + weights for easier moving.
Are shade sails better than parasols?
Shade sails suit fixed seating or play areas and give broad coverage. Parasols are more flexible and can be moved with the sun.
How do I stop a parasol blowing over?
Pick an appropriate base (e.g. 28 kg granite for centre-post), add extra weight for cantilever models, keep the canopy vented, and close it in wind.
Can I leave my parasol outside all year?
Close and cover the canopy when not in use and store indoors over winter. Keep cushions dry in outdoor storage.