Patio umbrellas in general are not supplied with a base. However, there are some that might, such an is with the Offset, Side Post or Cantilever styles. The most important criteria to consider when looking for a base or stand will be the size of the canopy and the weight that will support it.

What are the Options

For a center post frame, there are a variety of base options available. The options vary according to where the umbrella will be located and how it will be used. Take for example an outdoor umbrella that is being placed in the center of an outdoor table. It is important to take into consideration the size and weight of the table, the size of the hole in the table and the material used to construct the table. You will also want to confirm how much clearance you have under the table for the stand. Many are supplied with two differing size tube supports to allow for reduced clearances when the base is used under a table.

How Will I Be Using My Patio Umbrella?

When the garden umbrella is used free standing, the parameters that you want to consider are different. Your patio umbrella base choice will largely be dependent on the size of the umbrella. It is always prudent to use a base that is heavier than what you expect will suffice for the patio umbrella that you are using. By following this guideline you will be assured of the umbrella not being uprooted and blown away under most conditions. People often make the mistake of thinking that if they use a really heavy base, the umbrella will not be affected by the wind. Even umbrellas using fiberglass ribs are affected by the wind and damage will result. For a guideline on what size you would use, look to purchase from a store with knowledgeable sales people, or from an online store that has qualified live support and provides concise information on their website. For a free standing umbrella it is recommended to use a stand with a longer support tube that can firmly hold the umbrella post.

Umbrella Base Materials

Aside from the patio umbrella base coming with differing lengths of posts, they are also available in differing materials such as, plastic forms that are filled by the user with water, sand or cement, metal, aluminum or fiberglass. There are even ones like Shademobile's Rolling Umbrella Base or leveling blocks. In the case of offset umbrella bases, some of them allow for the umbrella to rotate 360 degrees without the actual base itself being moved. In-ground bases are also available for most offset umbrellas as well as some manufacturers going so far as to offer mounting options that include mounting the umbrella to a spa, wall , pillar or fence.