Ask an Expert: What Is The Best Color for a Patio Umbrella? (2024)

FAQs

Ask an Expert: What Is The Best Color for a Patio Umbrella? ›

In general, darker colors absorb more UV radiation than lighter shades. So think of colors like navy blue, black, or dark green if you're wondering what color patio umbrella is best for sun protection. These have higher ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) ratings, which means they'll let fewer UV rays through.

Light-colored umbrellas are particularly effective in providing a cooler and more comfortable shade, making them a popular choice for sun-drenched outdoor spaces. In contrast, if you live in a sunny, cool environment, darker colors like deep blues, greens, and browns tend to absorb more sunlight and heat.

Black umbrellas don't fade as quickly as some other colours, which means they'll look nicer, longer. In addition, this versatile hue matches almost anything and looks fabulous against virtually any backdrop and in any environment.

Umbrella of any colour will block sufficiently sun light. However, whitish umbrella will reflect most of the light falling upon it and will be cooler than, let's say, a black umbrella. And the cooler the umbrella, the less heat will radiate towards the holder.

Visibility: A clear umbrella allows you to see where you are going, even in heavy rain. This is especially important if you are walking in a busy area or on a busy street. Wind resistance: A dark colored umbrella is more wind resistant than a light colored umbrella.

Black or charcoal umbrellas are also longer-lasting than other colours as they tend to fade less quickly.

White umbrellas were the least effective, blocking about three-quarters of UV radiation. Black umbrellas, even without special UV coatings, blocked at least 90% of UV radiation.

Dark or bright colors

Darker colors, such as blue or black, absorb more UV rays than lighter shades like whites and pastels. This means the UV rays are less likely to reach your skin. But bright colors, like red, can also absorb UV rays.

Whites, off-whites, light grays, and pastel shades of pink, yellow, blue, and green reflect the sun's rays away from your body better than darker colors. These lighter colors don't absorb as much UV light, so wearing them means less exposure for your skin.

Comparing with the white interior, silver interior reflective umbrella delivers slightly higher contrast and slightly higher light output which is more suitable for crispy fashion look, and the white interior delivers softer light which is ideal for an all-rounder look or portrait look.

How do I choose a good patio umbrella? ›

All-weather, waterproof and UV resistant fabrics, and breathable designs that prevent mold and mildew are highly recommended. Sunbrella is the most well-known name in outdoor fabrics.

A silver reflective umbrella maximizes light output and creates a crisp, edgy look. Silver umbrellas are ideal for photographers who want to harness as much of their light's power as possible.

Crandall says dark colors aren't a no-no: Darker fabric is great at masking stains and can complement just about any shade of patio furniture. However, those rich browns, burgundies, and blacks may be a better fit for environments that are sunny but cool. “Darker canopies tend to be hotter.

Think about how much shade you want, and how much space you have available. Placing an oversized umbrella in a small area or vice-versa will end up being detrimental to your efforts. Your new outdoor umbrella should cover your table setting with an extra 2 feet / 0.6m of space around for extra comfort.

Much like the clothing we wear, lighter and darker patio umbrella colors draw and repel heat differently. Darker fabric is great at masking stains and might be a better fit for environments that are sunny but cool. A high-quality umbrella is a long-term investment for your patio, and the color should reflect that.

While all the umbrellas in the study offered protection, black models fared the best, intercepting at least 90% of the sun's rays.

If you wish to be well-protected from the sun, it is recommended that you avoid light-colored umbrellas. For instance, a pale blue UV umbrella will generally be less effective than one that is black. Black umbrellas tend to be capable of blocking out 90% of UV rays.