Nine Signs That It’s Time To Replace Your Patio Umbrella

A patio umbrella is the crown jewel of any outdoor furniture set. These umbrellas make it possible to place furniture almost anywhere in your outdoor area without having to worry about sun or rain. The only downside is they tend to endure a lot of abuse from nature and must be replaced periodically. The key is knowing the warning signs that it is time to swap out your old umbrella for a new one.

Some of the most common signs you need a new patio umbrella include a leaking umbrella, or one with rips, holes, or discoloration. If your umbrella no longer opens and closes, if the stand leans to one side, or if the fabric is sagging, it is best to replace it. If the umbrella is growing mold or mildew, throw it out and get a new one.

A patio umbrella is a real game changer when it comes to enjoying your outdoor space. It can help turn a seemingly uninhabitable area of your yard into a relaxing oasis. But to maintain this oasis you must maintain your patio set. If you recently looked up at your umbrella and can’t remember when you bought it, then keep reading. Below is a list of all the most common warning signs that you need to replace your patio umbrella.

Nine Signs That It’s Time For A New Patio Umbrella

1. It Leaks Water When It Rains

A patio umbrella has two main jobs: Protecting you from the heat of the sun and keeping the wetness of the rain away. A damaged umbrella can still provide plenty of shade, but it might start leaking when it rains. If you notice that you are getting wet under your umbrella, it might be time to swap it out for a new one.

Some patio umbrellas are not designed to keep rain completely out. Instead, they are meant to be breathable, and more resilient in the wind. Make sure you choose a waterproof option if you live where it rains often.

2. Mildew Is Growing On It

Another obvious sign that it is time to replace your patio umbrella is when mildew or mold are growing on it. Mildew and mold tend to form slowly over time. If there is a lot of heavy rain, or if there is organic matter that falls frequently on the umbrella, this process can occur much faster.

If you live in a moist climate, this problem is quite common. To combat it, regularly rinsing and washing the umbrella fabric will go a long way to help keep mold and mildew at bay. If you have neglected this maintenance, or it keeps happening, it might be time to buy a new umbrella. 

3. You Have Trouble Retracting It

One of the first parts of an umbrella to fail is the hardware that helps open and close the umbrella. Over time, metal can rust. Strong winds, heavy rains, and even snow can diminish an umbrella’s ability to open and close.

If your umbrella is stuck in the open position, then it is time to start looking for a new one. While it is certainly fine to leave an umbrella open, there may be times when there are strong winds, which will likely destroy the entire umbrella, and possibly damage other patio furniture.

4. The Umbrella Is Badly Stained

Another reason to start shopping for a new patio umbrella has less to do with function, and more to do with style. Umbrellas, especially cheaper models, can stain or become discolored in the sun over time.

If your patio umbrella is starting to stain or is discolored from the sun or weather, consider purchasing a new one. An ugly and stained umbrella can make your entire patio set look cheap and less desirable.

5. The Umbrella Is Cracked

If the base of your umbrella suffers through too many wind and rain storms, it can begin to crack. When you open up your umbrella, keep an eye on the base of the umbrella. If it is made of wood or plastic, it can crack under pressure. 

If your umbrella is cracked, you should replace it right away. A cracked umbrella can be quite dangerous to sit underneath, as it can fall on someone’s head.

6. The Materials Are Wearing Thin Or Are Brittle

Many elements are working against your umbrella’s fabric, including the sun, wind, rain, and other variables like salt, pollution, and debris. If you don’t properly store your patio furniture in the winter or during severe weather, materials will suffer.

These natural elements can do all sorts of negative things to your patio umbrella, but most of all it will wear away at the fabric. If you notice the umbrella fabric is very thin, or even brittle, then start saving for a new one. 

7. There Are Rips Or Holes

If you continue to neglect your umbrella, it will start to rip. Once it rips, it is only a matter of time until the entire umbrella shreds and falls apart. Certain accidents and weather events, like fallen branches, can rip holes in your umbrella. You can patch these holes, but if you want to keep a nice aesthetic, opt for a new umbrella.

8. It’s Starting To Sag

Not all umbrellas will rip and shred. Some materials will start to expand and loosen. This can cause your umbrella to sag. Surely you have seen an umbrella that looks more like a deflated parachute than a patio umbrella. If your umbrella looks like this, consider a new one. A fresh umbrella will make your yard and even your home’s exterior look better.

9. The Frame Is Bent Or Warped

If you forgot to close your umbrella before a storm, you might notice it getting bent, warped, or crooked. In some instances, you can bend your umbrella’s frame back into position with a bit of patience and strength. In other cases, the frame is likely on its way out. If you can’t fix your frame, it is best to replace it sooner rather than later.

Five Qualities To Consider When Shopping For A Patio Umbrella

1. Durability And Longevity

When you are looking for a new patio umbrella, you must consider its strength. You want a nice-looking umbrella, but you must also think about what that umbrella will look like in six months, and in one year. Patio sets are expensive, but you get what you pay for.

Ensure the umbrella you are choosing can withstand whatever weather your region gets. Otherwise, you will likely be going through the same buying process in less than a year.

2. Wind Resistance

Umbrellas help block rain and sunlight, but they are magnets for wind. Not all regions have to worry about winds, so you don’t have to give this much thought. 

If, however, you live somewhere with windy conditions, you must consider how resilient your umbrella will be in the wind. There are many different umbrella designs made specifically to withstand strong winds.

3. Style And Aesthetic

Another important thing to consider when purchasing a new umbrella for your patio is its style and aesthetic. There are all sorts of different looks you can go for. There are tiki hut-style umbrellas, and macrame-inspired umbrellas for those looking for that Bali look. There are many great options out there, so choose one that will accentuate your personal style.

4. Size And Shape

Umbrellas come in many shapes and sizes. Opting for the biggest umbrella you can find can be very tempting. Keep in mind, however, the larger the umbrella, the more wind it will trap. Also, larger umbrellas are heavier, so make sure you give the size and shape some consideration.

5. Price

Lastly, while it is important to consider all the above factors, price is often the most important indicator when buying a new patio umbrella. You can find cheap umbrellas for less than $50, but you will likely have to buy a new one each season. 

There are also highly durable and designer umbrellas made of exotic woods that can last many years but will cost $1,000 or more. Know your budget, and choose the best time of year to buy patio furniture.

Summing Up Signs That It’s Time To Replace A Patio Umbrella

An patio set can breathe new life into your outdoor space. The umbrella is the most visible, and often the most important piece of your patio set. Umbrellas also tend to need to be replaced more frequently than other pieces of your patio set. If you notice rips, holes, or mildew on your patio umbrella, get a new one. If the frame is cracked or bent, or if the umbrella is stained or discolored, consider upgrading to a new and improved one.

Related Guides:

• Tips For Storing Patio Furniture During The Winter
• How To Arrange Patio Furniture
• How Long Does Patio Furniture Last?