Many of us like spending time outdoors, but sometimes the hot rays of the sun and very strong winds prevent us from sitting outside the shelter of our homes. Fortunately, we have patio umbrellas to solve these problems for us. For these umbrellas to be fully functional, however, we need to have sturdy bases for them.
A patio umbrella base is exactly as it sounds — a base that keeps a large umbrella or the posts of an overhead canopy upright. It is often used with a patio table, although it can keep a patio umbrella upright all by itself. It also has great potential as an additional patio accessory.
Considering its purpose, it is important to have a patio umbrella base handle that is sturdy and heavy enough to keep an umbrella firmly in place.
The best patio umbrella bases are made from stone, cast iron, steel, resin, concrete, and other similarly heavy bases. Plastic and wicker bases with wide platforms are also very good, although they are more vulnerable to the elements.
With three main criteria in mind—sturdy, heavy, and attractive—here are some highly recommended options for selecting umbrella bases.
Off-the Rack Umbrella Bases
Home depots and home accessories stores usually have patio umbrella bases on their catalogs. This is obviously the easiest and most secure way to shop for an umbrella base. You can personally inspect the item and make a wise decision that will suit your needs and wants.
Custom-made Umbrella Bases
Custom-made umbrellas have the advantage of fitting in perfectly with the theme of your garden and/or patio. This also gives you a chance to show off your personal taste. You can have these done in metals, stones, marble, concrete, wood, and other materials.
Creative Alternatives
Any of the umbrella bases mentioned above might cost you some money. If you don’t have much to spare, you can always improvise and create a patio umbrella base that is creative, original, and doesn’t cost a dime.
Take a large flowerpot, old metal can or thick plastic container. Take an old PVC pipe (around two centimeters in diameter) and install it at the center of the can or container. You can use heavy-duty glue for this, screw it in, or drill a hole through the container to keep the pipe in place. This is where you will insert the umbrella stand. Then, fill the base with large rocks, pebbles or sand. You can even top it off with colored stones and other garden ornaments.
The best thing about improvising is that you can get as creative as you like and come up with attractive and original umbrella bases.