With your backyard paradise completely set, you've found that you're running into one major problem: you have no escape from the sun. Sure, you have the perfect patio furnishings, an amazing picnic table, and all the fixings that one could ask for when living in the great outdoors. Except when the mercury rises, your friends and family are running to the air conditioned freedom of your home.

So you need a patio umbrella ? the perfect item to complete your patio set. But you are not sure where you want it to stand, or how you want it to work. You know you need some escape from the shade in this lifetime (which rules out planting a tree), but you are not sure how it needs to be implemented into your version of the great outdoors. With all the styles and types of patio furniture out there, which one is right for you?

The first thing to consider is the size of the area you will want to cover with your umbrella. Is it a large, open space? Or is it a small, enclosed area? Are you going to have a table be the centerpiece of the shaded area, or will you leave it open for people to stand in and out of? The size of the area will greatly affect the size and type of umbrella you will purchase. As a general rule, always buy an umbrella five feet bigger than the area you want in the shade.

Once you are settled on a size for your patio umbrella, its time to determine what function you want it to serve. While center-fixed umbrellas will give you shade in a traditional means, offset umbrellas will allow you to have a walking space underneath. A regular, traditional umbrella is perfect for putting in the middle of a patio table, offering shade for your guests as they eat dinner, whereas a offset umbrella will attract friends and family to the perfect social spot.

So now you've decided on what kind of patio umbrella you want. Now, its time to decide what material you want your umbrella to be made out of. Yes, even patio umbrellas come in different shapes and sizes, and out of many different materials. Wood umbrellas can be very decorative, but because of its make, has a shorter life span than other materials you could select. Metal frames are some of the most popular umbrellas out there, and offer a longer life span than other materials. However, because of how they are built, metal frames tend to be heavier than other materials. Fiberglass umbrella frames are also very popular, because they are the lightest and most portable of all the makes and materials. However, fiberglass frames usually come in a limited amount of designs and finishes, making them limited as to how they can fit into your greater scheme of your patio.

Now that you've determined what you want your patio umbrella to be made out of, its time to put together the material you want your canopy to be made out of. Yes, there are many different types of cloth that your canopy can be made out of. If you want absolute shade underneath, purchase a canopy made of canvas or cotton. Canvas and Cotton are also tear-resistant, able to withstand blustery days. If you want a little sun coming through your canopy, try a less heavy cloth, like nylon. While it will provide a warm escape in the sweltering months, it is less resistant to wear and tear, meaning you will have to repair and replace it often.

Patio umbrellas can be the perfect item to tie everything on your patio together. However, without careful thought, your umbrella can be more of a burden than a benefit. By considering all of the above, you will guarantee that your patio umbrella will be a great asset, and provide enjoyment for years to come.