How To Measure Patio Umbrella Canopy Length

How To Measure Patio Umbrella Canopy Length: Essential Tips

When shopping for a new patio umbrella, it’s essential to consider the size of the canopy and how well it will fit over your outdoor seating area. An umbrella’s canopy is measured by its diameter, which is the distance from one side of the canopy to the other. Here are some key points to remember when measuring the canopy length of a patio umbrella:

1. Determine the Shape of the Umbrella

Patio umbrellas come in various shapes, including round, square, or rectangular. The shape of the umbrella will affect how you measure the canopy length. For round umbrellas, simply measure the distance across the diameter of the canopy from one edge to the opposite edge.

2. Find the Center Point

For non-round umbrellas, you'll need to find the center point before measuring the canopy length. Fold the canopy in half and align the edges to find the center. Mark the center point with a small piece of tape or a pen.

3. Measure the Radius

For non-round umbrellas, measure the distance from the center point to the edge of the canopy along one of the sides. Multiply this measurement by two to get the diameter of the canopy.

4. Measure the Length

For rectangular umbrellas, measure the length along one of the longer sides of the canopy. Multiply this measurement by two to get the total canopy length.

5. Consider the Overlap

When positioning the umbrella over your patio furniture, it's important to account for the overlap. The overlap refers to the amount of the canopy that will extend beyond the edge of your table or seating area. A good rule of thumb is to allow for a 6-12 inch overlap on each side.

6. Use a Measuring Tape or String

For accurate measurements, use a measuring tape or a piece of string to determine the canopy length. Avoid using approximations or guesswork.

7. Consider the Base Size

The size of the umbrella base will determine the amount of stability the umbrella has. Choose a base that is large enough to support the size of the canopy.

By following these steps, you can accurately measure the canopy length of a patio umbrella and choose the right size umbrella for your outdoor space. Remember to consider the shape of the umbrella, find the center point (for non-round umbrellas), and allow for overlap when determining the appropriate canopy length.