Whether at an outdoor stall or a dining table, a market umbrella is both useful and attractive. In addition to providing shade for customers, it also increases the opportunity for businesses to showcase their products and brands. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of market umbrellas to help you fully understand this outdoor equipment.
What is a market umbrella?
Market umbrellas are designed for outdoor commercial places such as markets, cafes, and restaurant patios. Compared with other outdoor umbrellas, this commercial umbrella has significant advantages in size, stability, and functionality. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, and is ideal for outdoor business. A market umbrella typically consists of the roof, rib, base, pole, and open system.
Roof
Umbrella roofs are usually 6 to 11 feet in diameter and are fabricated with waterproof, sun-proof, and durable materials, such as polyester or acrylic. The colors are varied, and the graphics can be customized to enhance visual appeal.
Rib
A canopy umbrella usually has 4 to 6 ribs, which are made of sturdy materials such as aluminum, steel, or fiberglass. High-performance ribs can keep the roof taut and provide support, coping with various weather conditions.
Base
The base holds the whole umbrella. Heavy materials such as concrete or metal are used to create the base to keep the umbrella stable in the wind. There are two kinds of bases, fixed and mobile. The mobile one can be flexibly adjusted depending on different occasions.
Pole
The pole connects the roof to base, usually adjustable in height. High-quality poles usually adopt rust-resistant materials, and some may have a locking mechanism to ensure that they are securely fixed after the height adjustment.
Open system
The open system of this umbrella is simple in design, usually adopts manual or automatic mechanisms. Manual mechanisms include push rods, pulleys, or cranks, while the automatic mechanism utilizes a spring or air pressure principle to achieve one push button operation.
The Differences Between the Market Umbrella and Patio Umbrella
Although market umbrellas and patio umbrellas are similar in structure and basic function, there are still differences between them.
Use cases
Market umbrellas are mainly used in outdoor commercial settings and temporary spaces, such as market stalls, restaurants, and decks. They provide shade and protect goods and people from the UV rays and rain. Patio umbrellas are mainly used in residential areas like courtyards and terraces, enhancing the comfort and beauty of the patio.
Size
Market umbrellas are usually larger, with a diameter between 6 and 11 feet, while patio umbrellas are generally smaller, with a diameter between 6 and 9 feet.
Design
There are various shapes of market umbrellas, such as square and octagonal. They often use weighted bases for stability, easy to install and move, making them the best outdoor umbrella for wind. In contrast, patio umbrellas have more diverse shapes and more decorative elements, focusing on aesthetics. They can be secured to the ground with accessories like ground stakes.
The Functions of a Market Umbrella
Market umbrellas are more than just a tool for shade, they offer multiple functions and advantages to customers and businesses.
Wide area shade
This shade umbrella boasts a wide umbrella surface that provides extensive coverage. It is usually made of high-density, high-SPF fabrics that effectively block sunlight and over 90% of UV rays.
Excellent stability
The market umbrella has a high-quality canopy, a solid frame, and a scientific structural design. It is as stable as a rock even in strong winds. Additionally, some umbrellas come with wind ropes and weighted bases to further enhance overall stability.
Dual protection against water
This outdoor umbrella also has excellent waterproof performance. Made from high-tech waterproof materials, the canopy can quickly drain rainwater. Even in a sudden shower, it can provide people with immediate shelter, so outdoor activities are not affected by the weather.
Increasing brand promotion opportunities
An outdoor market umbrella with distinctive designs and bright colors can quickly catch the attention of passersby. You can print your brand logo and promotional information on the roof. Customized umbrellas not only increase brand exposure, but attract more potential customers.
Choosing the Right Market Umbrella
To choose the right market umbrella for your restaurant or stall, you need to consider many aspects to ensure it is both practical and meets your needs. Here are some suggestions:
Size
You can choose an appropriate size according to the occasion and needs. Large umbrellas can provide a wider shading area, suitable for crowded places; while small umbrellas are more suitable for outdoor restaurants or small terraces, easier to install.
Materials
When choosing an umbrella, you should pay attention to its materials. The roof should use waterproof and UV-resistant fabrics, such as polyester or acrylic, and the pole and ribs should adopt rust-resistant materials, such as aluminum alloy or stainless steel, to increase stability and durability in various weather conditions.
Stability
It is better to choose a weighted base to ensure it remains stable in windy conditions. Some market umbrellas come with heavy-duty bases or removable bases that can be adjusted as needed. In addition, choosing a umbrella with a ventilated roof can better improve stability.
Open system
Pick up an umbrella with an easy-to-use open system. Manual systems are simple and intuitive, with more options such as push-up and pulley, while automatic systems are quick to use, suitable for occasions where you open and close frequently.
Design
Choose appropriate colors and patterns according to the brand image and usage environment. Bright colors and unique patterns can attract customers’ attention and enhance the visual effect. You can also customize the umbrella by adding brand logos or promotional patterns on the surface to increase brand exposure and attract more potential customers.
Budget
Planning ahead and ordering in advance can help you save money. You should set a reasonable budget range. A high-quality umbrella may cost more initially, but it will save maintenance and replacement costs in the long run.
Brands and Reviews
Choose a well-known brand or refer to other users’ reviews and recommendations. Check the store rating and online reviews to learn about other users’ experiences, which can help you find a product of reliable quality.
If you are still confused about the choice, consider Westshade. We have a wide range of outdoor umbrellas for sale. Whether it is a large commercial event or a small open-air market, Westshade can provide high-quality products and services for you.
FAQs
How do you clean a market umbrella?
Cleaning an umbrella is easy and requires just a few steps. Start by opening the umbrella and brushing off loose dirt with a soft brush. Rinse the fabric, then mix mild detergent with warm water for a cleaning solution. Gently scrub the fabric, focusing on stains, and rinse thoroughly. Allow the umbrella to air dry in the sun, or use a hairdryer on low. Once dry, close it and store it with a protective cover.
What is the best material for a market umbrella?
The ideal material for a market umbrella should align with its intended functions. For the canopy, choose high-density polyester or acrylic, which provide excellent UV protection and are waterproof, effectively shielding against both sunlight and rain. For the pole, aluminum alloy or stainless steel is recommended, as these materials are rust-proof, strong, and offer stability and durability. For the ribs, opt for aluminum or fiberglass to enhance strength and toughness, ensuring the umbrella remains stable in windy conditions.
Can I use a market umbrella on the beach?
Yes, you can use a market umbrella on the beach, but there are a few things to consider. Market umbrellas are designed for outdoor locations with hard surfaces, so their bases are not securely stable in soft sand. Please choose a umbrella with a heavier base, or look for a base reinforced with sand anchor bags designed for beach use to increase its stability.
Conclusion
Market umbrellas are essential for outdoor commercial spaces, providing shade and increasing product visibility. They are UV-resistant, extremely stable in wind, and can also be custom designed to be used as a branding tool. When choosing a market umbrella, consider its size, material, stability, and design to ensure it meets your specific needs while staying within your budget.
Now you know what a market umbrella is. Want to learn more about it or buy one? If you are looking for high-quality market umbrellas, Westshade is your ideal choice!
Our umbrellas are of various types and excellent quality. They are made of high-quality materials, wind-resistant and rain-resistant, with a long warranty. We utilize top-quality fabrics and advanced printing technology to deliver the best products to our customers. Moreover, we offer personalized umbrella customization services, allowing you to print your brand logo or unique designs to attract more customers! Most importantly, we will give you a free umbrella cover when you buy an umbrella, so you can easily store it when not in use and protect the umbrella from damage.
No matter what you want, Westshade is committed to providing you with top products and exceptional service to contribute to your business’s success!
