Patio umbrellas enhance the comfort and appeal of outdoor areas. But if you're considering the purchase of an umbrella for your home or business, you might be wondering about sun fade. Although you can find umbrellas in virtually any shade and hue you could imagine, you might wonder how long the color will last.



No umbrella is indestructible. No umbrella will look good forever. However, you can look for certain qualities or products when shopping for patio umbrellas. Do your best to pick the best product for your budget and to protect your purchase afterward, and you may be able to extend its life.

As you shop, keep an eye out for patio umbrellas with fade-resistant canopies. Many brands will provide a list of key features. Take time to read these and find out if fade resistance is a feature they advertise.

Also, certain popular brands of canopies—such as Sunbrella—are known for their quality. One feature of this quality is resistance to sun fade. So you may also wish to look for patio umbrellas with Sunbrella canopies or other brands about which you have heard good reviews.

If you haven't heard or read any reviews but would like to hear what people have to say about their purchases, ask friends or acquaintances you know who have purchased patio umbrellas themselves. If you don't know anyone personally, read some reviews online. Reviews may also bring to your attention other interesting features besides fade resistance.

If you feel that you would like to take extra precautions against sun fade, you may wish to explore additional options. Umbrella manufacturers also make covers. When you take the umbrella down for the winter, you will probably want to cover it before you store it. The cover keeps out dust and insects. However, you may also find a cover useful for added protection during the summer when you are not using your umbrella.

Many patio umbrellas have already been treated to help them repel water and block sun. If yours is not, you can buy spray-on weatherproofing products. Such a spray not only reduces UV damage, but also repels moisture and prevents stains. As with all chemicals, follow the directions precisely to keep yourself safe and healthy.

Furthermore, when you reach the end of the warm season, take the time to clean and store your umbrella properly. When you think you will no longer use it for a few months, clean, cover, and store it upright in a protected area.

Follow these tips, and you will find that sun fade is not a big worry. Plus, by taking some of these steps, you also avoid other sources of damage.

While mold, insects, and dirt can weaken your umbrella and make it less attractive, you can keep it in excellent shape by selecting a product of good quality and caring for it appropriately. Keep it clean and covered when not in use, and it should serve you or your customers well.