After 51 hours spent researching the best patio umbrella stands, we think TropiShade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand is the best for most people.
This choice is based on several criteria: diameter, rust-free, coated finish, standalone, UV resistant, easy to clean, pattern, weight, pole size, fills with sand or water, made in USA, resists cracking, handle, wind/storm resistant, and protects flooring, among other things.
Product | Price | Overall Rating | Appearance | Quality | Sturdiness | Maintenance | Value for Money | diameter | rust-free | coated finish | standalone | UV resistant | easy to clean | pattern | weight | pole size | fills with sand or water | made in USA | resists cracking | handle | wind/storm resistant | protects flooring | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
TropiShade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand | Check Price | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 20-inch | Yes | Powder Coated | Yes | Yes | Yes | Euro Deco | 30lbs | 1 7/8", 1 3/8" and 1 1/2" | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Patio Living Concepts 16 1/2″ Resin Umbrella Stand | Check Price | 4.6 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 16.5-inch | No | Resin body | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 50lbs | All | Sand | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | |
US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand | Check Price | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 16-inch | Yes | Resin | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | 1lb (when empty) | 1" and 1 3/4" | Water | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | |
DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand | Check Price | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 18-inch | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Cast stone | 22lbs | 1 1/2" or 2" | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand | Check Price | 4.2 | 3.5 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 15-inch | Yes | Resin | No | Yes | Yes | No | 1.8lbs (when empty) | 1" to 1 1/2" | Water | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
When you were younger you probably never figured that one day you would be checking out patio umbrella stands.
But if you are going to spending your hard earned bucks on something, then it makes sense that you get the best you can.
There is a mind boggling selection of patio umbrella stands from a vast array of manufacturers on the market, which makes choosing one seem like a bit of a lottery. Perhaps you should simply choose one that you like the look of and have done.
The first thing to think about is just where you are going to be using your patio umbrella stand and what you are expecting from it.
If that is the way you really felt, you wouldn’t be reading this, so let’s have a look at the different types of patio umbrella stands and what their features actually mean when it comes to functionality, design and style.
The first thing to think about is just where you are going to be using your patio umbrella stand and what you are expecting from it. For example, do you want to take it camping or is it going to stay in your yard?
And what about how it stands – will you be using it with a patio table or do you want it to stand alone? Does it have to match your existing patio furniture or are you looking for a stand that will make a statement on its own?
These are things that matter – and which will have an impact upon your final choice of patio umbrella stand – as well as things like how much you are prepared to spend on this accessory.
Choosing a patio umbrella stand should not be taken lightly as it will help keeping your umbrella in place while it provides shade for your patio furniture such as a hammock, or when you’re preparing food with your BBQ.
Selection Of The Best Patio Umbrella Stands
Here are the best patio umbrella stands for most people according to Outlinist:
TropiShade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand
Investing in well-made garden furniture and accessories makes sense. As it will have been constructed out of resilient materials, it will last longer.
However, there’s no accounting for the weather – and that’s why a stand to weigh down your patio umbrella can act as an insurance policy against the wind.
Information
This attractive umbrella stand looks good in any surroundings – so it’s ready to go when it comes to grass, decking or a regular patio.
If Tropishade is to be believed, their 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand is up there with the best.
This attractive umbrella stand looks good in any surroundings – so it’s ready to go when it comes to grass, decking or a regular patio.
The bronze coloring of the Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand is the perfect match for many contemporary garden design features.
You know that if you are going to buy something that is constructed from cast iron that it is going to have some substantial weight behind it. And that’s just what you need from an umbrella stand. The Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand weighs in with an impressive 30lbs.
The attractive design is described as Euro Deco, which gives it a classic appearance in your garden. However, it isn’t necessary to pay too much attention to its pattern – as it will be likely hidden underneath your patio table anyway.
When you buy something like the Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand, you want to know that it is going to stay functional in the years to come. The manufacturer maintains that their powder coating ensures durability.
diameter | 20-inch |
---|---|
rust-free | Yes |
coated finish | Powder Coated |
standalone | Yes |
UV resistant | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes |
pattern | Euro Deco |
weight | 30lbs |
pole size | 1 7/8", 1 3/8" and 1 1/2" |
fills with sand or water | No |
made in USA | Yes |
resists cracking | No |
handle | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | Yes |
protects flooring | Yes |
With a 20 inch diameter, you can be sure that the Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand will be able to hold its own – even if the wind begins to make a nuisance of itself and tries to push things round a bit.
The Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand is able to accommodate three different sizes of umbrella pole, offering a compatibility that cannot be found in some other patio umbrella stands. These sizes are 1 7/8″, 1 3/8″ and 1 1/2″.
When the umbrella pole has been placed in the Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand, you will be able to make sure that it is completely secure by utilizing the two pole thumb screws that are in the base of the stand.
Pros
If there’s one thing you can say with absolute certainty about cast iron is that it isn’t the most delicate of substances.
Oftentimes, the bold claims from manufacturers don’t fully reflect how their products perform once they’re in a real-world environment. However, Tropishade’s patio umbrella stand is reliable and resilient, and here are the key advantages to their cast iron base:
- It might be heavy but moving it is not difficult: There are times when you want to move your garden furniture to another part of the yard and we liked the fact that the Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand can be put on its edge and rolled to its new location.
- Rainwater will not become trapped underneath the stand: Although a bit of water may seem relatively harmless, it’s important to ensure that a patio umbrella stand doesn’t affect your garden’s irrigation – as it can cause unsightly puddles, damage to your decking, and rust on the patio umbrella stand. This Tropishade stand ably prevents this.
- Bigger isn’t always the better option: Many contemporary patio umbrellas are huge affairs but these aren’t always a feasible option if space is an issue, or you want one to cover a bistro table. This Tropishade umbrella stand will accommodate smaller poles, and therefore, smaller and lighter umbrellas.
- Cast iron isn’t going to fall apart anytime soon: If there’s one thing you can say with absolute certainty about cast iron is that it isn’t the most delicate of substances – which is great when it comes to something that is going to be exposed to the elements because you know that it isn’t going to rot.
- Powder coating offers a rust proof solution: Rust is insidious; once it starts it’s difficult to get rid of. Fortunately, the powder coating on the Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand means that rust doesn’t get a look in, so you get a maintenance free stand for your umbrella.
- Once you’ve got it it’s yours for keeps: This may seem to be an odd advantage but one of our reviewers mentioned it and it kind of struck a chord so here goes. At 30lbs this is not the lightest of umbrella stands – which makes it a great deterrent against thieves. It’s hardly something that they can stick in their pocket and saunter off with.
Cons
The Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand has a lot going for it but before you make the decision to buy one, let’s have a look at the things that might make you change your mind.
- There’s not a lot you can do with a bent pole: When we received our first Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand the tube that houses the pole was crooked. We did some research and found that this was not a one-off. However we returned it and received a perfect model so we have come to the conclusion that this is a quality control issue and doesn’t reflect on all models.
- Not the umbrella stand to take to the beach: If you are looking for an umbrella stand that you can utilize on the beach or take on vacation with you, then this probably isn’t the best option – especially if you like to travel light. Thirty pounds of extra weight in your trunk is going to impact upon fuel costs.
- A water tight tube can lead to wet feet: We left our Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand out doors for a few days to see what impact the weather would have on it – and we found out the hard way that the tube that holds the umbrella tube is water tight so when we put the umbrella in… yes, you’ve got it – soaked feet.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
diameter | 20-inch | 16.5-inch | 16-inch |
rust-free | Yes | No | Yes |
coated finish | Powder Coated | Resin body | Resin |
standalone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
UV resistant | Yes | Yes | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes | Yes | Yes |
pattern | Euro Deco | No | No |
weight | 30lbs | 50lbs | 1lb (when empty) |
pole size | 1 7/8", 1 3/8" and 1 1/2" | All | 1" and 1 3/4" |
fills with sand or water | No | Sand | Water |
made in USA | Yes | No | Yes |
resists cracking | No | No | Yes |
handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | Yes | No | No |
protects flooring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
Its powder coated surface ensures that this umbrella stand will remain rust free, and its open design means that any water that gets underneath it will dry quickly.
This Tropishade umbrella stand offers a bronzed contemporary look for your outside space. Better still, the sturdiness of the Tropishade 20″ Bronze Cast Iron Umbrella Stand is coupled with a beautiful Euro Deco design.
Its powder coated surface ensures that this umbrella stand will remain rust free, and its open design means that any water that gets underneath it will dry quickly without causing any damage to decking and other surfaces. That said, we would have appreciated a water release hole in the tube too!
Tropishade’s quality control could do with an overhaul to make sure that they are dispatching any faulty umbrella stands, but their customer service ensured we received a new item – but it’s frustrating having to wait.
Patio Living Concepts 16 1/2″ Resin Umbrella Stand
All too often, patio umbrella stands get the raw end of the bargain. They’re just seen as an accessory, with no real thought placed into their design.
However, this stand from Patio Living Concepts is a welcome break from the norm.
Information
Interestingly, this patio umbrella stand does not need the support of a table in order to ensure that the umbrella stays upright all times.
This is a simple product that does what it says on the tin: keeps your patio umbrella upright no matter what life may throw at it.
One problem with other stands is how it can be difficult to transport around the garden once it’s been weighed down.
But the in-built handle with this umbrella stand makes moving it from A to B a doddle.
Sometimes, it can be nothing short of a nightmare to select the right stand for your patio umbrella. That’s because you have to ensure that the poles from your umbrella will fit comfortably in the base of the stand.
However, you can rest assured that this Patio Living Concepts product will be up to the task – and if you’re wondering about its dimensions, it comes in at 16.5 inches in diameter, while it’s also 11.5 inches tall. As you can see, it won’t be very imposing on the garden.
diameter | 16.5-inch |
---|---|
rust-free | No |
coated finish | Resin body |
standalone | Yes |
UV resistant | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes |
pattern | No |
weight | 50lbs |
pole size | All |
fills with sand or water | Sand |
made in USA | No |
resists cracking | No |
handle | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | No |
protects flooring | Yes |
Interestingly, this patio umbrella stand does not need the support of a table in order to ensure that the umbrella stays upright all times. That said, you will find that this stand isn’t the most wind and storm resistant that money can buy as a result.
Once the patio umbrella stand arrives in the mail, you’ll notice that it hasn’t been pre-weighted down, as this can add an insane premium onto your shipping costs that is best avoided at all costs.
You can either use up to 50lbs of sand, which is really inexpensive to buy at a local home improvement store – or water in order to save yourself a trip. However, the one challenge with using water is how it can freeze on a particularly cold night inside the patio umbrella stand, damaging the plastic permanently.
So, now we’ve become a little better acquainted with the setup of this patio umbrella stand, let’s find out more about this product’s advantages.
Pros
With 50lbs of force in the base, you can rest assured the umbrella attached to the stand isn’t going to blow away unexpectedly.
Shoppers across the States have been impressed with the workmanship of this umbrella stand from Patio Living Concepts. It’s easy to maintain, well designed, and is the result of decades of experience from the manufacturer. Other pros include:
- You can stabilize absolutely any outdoor umbrella: This bold claim is according to the manufacturer. With 50lbs of force in the base, you can rest assured the umbrella attached to the stand isn’t going to blow away unexpectedly as you indulge in a barbecue or a spot of sunbathing.
- The base includes an easy fill spout: To ensure you don’t make a huge mess on the floor as you weight the patio umbrella stand down, a spout guarantees the sand pours effortlessly into the base without any hassle. It’s a simple design feature that really makes all the difference.
- This umbrella stand has a durable molded resin body: Unlike other stands which can begin to crack and leak under the pressure, this Patio Living Concepts products comes with stainless steel hardware which guarantees that it’ll be up to the job for years, not just mere months.
- The screw-on cap helps to prevent leakages over time: It can be incredibly frustrating when your patio umbrella stand begins to leave a trail of sand and stale water wherever it goes. However, the screw-on cap locks everything inside once and for all – giving you the peace of mind you deserve.
- Five colors are available for the patio umbrella stand: That way, you can ensure that the stand you choose will complement your garden furniture. Your options include beige, black, bronze, white and green. Who said a patio umbrella stand couldn’t be both practical and good-looking?
- A sloped design prevents the buildup of rainwater: This is the feature we probably like the most. It stops flooding and unsightly puddles from blotching your garden – and guarantees that the natural irrigation won’t be affected. It’s something we would certainly like to see from more patio umbrella stands.
Cons
Now that we’ve gone over the features that we were pleased with from this Patio Living Concepts umbrella stand, let’s explore some of the disadvantages which might prove to be a deal-breaker when you’re deciding what to purchase:
- It is susceptible to rusting: As time wears on, and your patio umbrella stand is exposed to all the elements, you may notice that the color begins to fade and some rusting sets in. This is frustrating – especially as you’re not really meant to place one of these stands into storage.
- It’ll still blow over in a storm: Despite the fact that it’s got a load capacity of 50lbs, this stand won’t fully shield your patio umbrella from strong winds and storms – even if it’s used in conjunction with a tabletop. This is frustrating, especially as it’s what you should expect from one of these products.
- The screw cap to add sand permanently locks: Although you might want to empty the sand or water from the patio umbrella stand so it can be carried somewhere else, this Patio Living Concepts product has a cap which cannot be unscrewed after the weight has been added.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
diameter | 16.5-inch | 20-inch | 16-inch |
rust-free | No | Yes | Yes |
coated finish | Resin body | Powder Coated | Resin |
standalone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
UV resistant | Yes | Yes | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes | Yes | Yes |
pattern | No | Euro Deco | No |
weight | 50lbs | 30lbs | 1lb (when empty) |
pole size | All | 1 7/8", 1 3/8" and 1 1/2" | 1" and 1 3/4" |
fills with sand or water | Sand | No | Water |
made in USA | No | Yes | Yes |
resists cracking | No | No | Yes |
handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | No | Yes | No |
protects flooring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
We like how there are plenty of colors to choose from, and that it can accommodate a generous amount of sand.
This is a simplistic patio umbrella stand that does what it says on the tin. Overall, the performance of this Patio Living Concepts product isn’t too shabby – as long as your region isn’t susceptible to never-ending storms and strong winds.
We like how there are plenty of colors to choose from, and that it can accommodate a generous amount of sand. However, the fact the stand is susceptible to rusting – and the permanent screw cap – are two things that really should have been addressed when the manufacturer was in the prototyping stage.
Still, it’s a product that’s definitely worth considering – especially if you are conscious about your garden’s image during those long summer months when you’re entertaining guests.
US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand
If you are looking for an easy to maintain, no fuss patio umbrella stand, then have a look at this one by US Weight.
Utilize it with your patio umbrella to make sure that you enjoy the pleasure of being outdoors without the being exposed to the harmful rays of the sun.
Information
The US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand has been constructed so that it will not fall victim to cracking or fading whatever the climate.
According to US Weight, its 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand will withstand the rigors of the elements without becoming damaged.
The stabilized polymer with which this umbrella stand is constructed has been treated to resist color fading often caused by exposure to UV rays.
And because this US Weight patio umbrella stand is made with resin, it will be far less susceptible to rust following years of continual use.
The US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand has been constructed so that it will not fall victim to cracking or fading whatever the climate. This is normally a big issue for other brands of patio umbrella stands, so is a welcome feature.
This particular model is available in four different colors – meaning that even if you’re purchasing an accessory that hasn’t been made by the manufacturer of your patio umbrella, it shouldn’t look radically different. The shades available are black, white, sand and topaz.
Although it weighs just 1lb when it is empty, the US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand increases to a respectable 25lbs when it is filled with water, and 35lbs when filled with sand.
diameter | 16-inch |
---|---|
rust-free | Yes |
coated finish | Resin |
standalone | Yes |
UV resistant | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes |
pattern | No |
weight | 1lb (when empty) |
pole size | 1" and 1 3/4" |
fills with sand or water | Water |
made in USA | Yes |
resists cracking | Yes |
handle | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | No |
protects flooring | Yes |
Although this is a lightweight patio umbrella stand (when empty), the construction of it is sturdy enough to repel any denting, which means that it will stay looking good and enable you to get years of use.
You can use the US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand with umbrella poles measuring 1 inch and 1.75 inches. A screw in the stand can be tightened to hold the thinner pole in place.
Because of its resin construction, this US Weight patio umbrella stand is also really easy to clean. As well as day-to-day dust, any rainfall is likely to kick up muddy splatters for you to deal with – and a simple wipe with a damp cloth is all that is needed to keep this stand pristine.
Pros
The US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand features a EZ Grip handle so picking it up to move it to another part of your yard is not a problem.
We want you to be able to make an informed decision before you decide which patio umbrella to use so we are going to take a closer look at what the US Weight 16″ Resin Umbrella Stand has to offer.
- Want to move your umbrella stand? Not a problem: The US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand features a EZ Grip handle so picking it up to move it to another part of your yard is not a problem. So now there’s no reason why you can’t find the best spot as the sun moves.
- Getting away from it all is great, too: Are you planning a camping trip or a day out at the beach? Wherever you are thinking of taking some leisure time, it’s great if you can take your patio umbrella and stand with you. And because this stand is light, there’s no reason why you can’t include it in your packing.
- Standalone means your umbrella gets some independence: If you are taking your patio umbrella and stand with you for a day’s fishing or another excursion, you probably won’t need your patio table. Luckily, this stand will keep your umbrella upright without it – although if it is particularly windy, it makes sense to fill it with sand rather than water.
- To store or not to store, that is the question: Because the high quality resin used in the construction of the US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand won’t crack or fade whatever the weather you can leave it outdoors all year long should you choose to – although if it is filled with water and there is a risk of it freezing, it may be better to tuck it away in your garage or loft.
- A stand that offers great value for money: Sure, there are fancier patio umbrella stands on the market, but you have to weigh up performance against cost sometimes – and we thought that the US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand offers excellent value for your buck.
- A compact diameter means more room for your feet: Some patio umbrella stands are so wide that there is little room for your feet under the table. Not this one from US Weight. Its 16 inches also means that it is a great choice for smaller areas, such as on a balcony.
Cons
OK, so up to now everything seems good with the US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand, but it’s only fair to let you know about the things that we weren’t quite as impressed with so you can make your own mind up.
- Do you want your patio to look like a beach? Because it was more windy than usual when we first set up our umbrella with the US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand, we decided to fill it with sand. This is a two-person job, and we managed to spill most of it all over the patio rather than into the stand – which meant sweeping it up and making many attempts before the job was done.
- Not big enough to hold large umbrellas steadily: If you have an umbrella of 9ft or over, then we don’t recommend the US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand. Even using sand wasn’t enough to keep our umbrella from tipping – although we did discover that gravel did a better job.
- Damaged umbrella pole isn’t what we wanted: The screw that holds the umbrella pole in place has a point to it (well, ours did) and we found that it was marking our umbrella pole. Now that isn’t the end of the world but after repeated use when the umbrella moved because of the wind, this mark became more like a scoring and we are concerned that over time it could break the pole.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
diameter | 16-inch | 20-inch | 16.5-inch |
rust-free | Yes | Yes | No |
coated finish | Resin | Powder Coated | Resin body |
standalone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
UV resistant | Yes | Yes | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes | Yes | Yes |
pattern | No | Euro Deco | No |
weight | 1lb (when empty) | 30lbs | 50lbs |
pole size | 1" and 1 3/4" | 1 7/8", 1 3/8" and 1 1/2" | All |
fills with sand or water | Water | No | Sand |
made in USA | Yes | Yes | No |
resists cracking | Yes | No | No |
handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | No | Yes | No |
protects flooring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
The high-quality resin construction means that this patio umbrella stand will not rust, become dented or leak.
The US Weight 16″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand offers great functionality at a price that is right. When it is empty, it is easy to transport and the built in handle makes carrying it a walk in the park.
The high-quality resin construction means that this patio umbrella stand will not rust, become dented or leak – and the UV protection will ensure that it retains its color for years without fading. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller areas.
On the downside, the compact size also means that this umbrella stand isn’t really suitable for larger umbrellas. Pouring sand into the stand was a time consuming chore, and the screw on the stand can damage the umbrella pole – you could, however, file this down.
DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand
If you’ve got the luxury of a back garden – it’s important to purchase some furniture which will allow you to enjoy it fully.
However, practicality should also be a concern, and that’s why purchasing a sturdy base for your patio umbrella needs to be a priority.
Information
The DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand has been designed to complement the other features of your back yard or patio.
DC America has created a new line in garden accessories that have been designed to add elegance to your back yard.
Their 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand will add a classical design to your outdoor living space.
Constructed from cast stone, this garden accessory will provide solid support for your patio umbrella.
The DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand has been designed to complement the other features of your back yard or patio. A patio umbrella stand can often be overlooked when it comes to garden furniture and accessories but the wrong one can undermine the rest of what you have.
Offering great functionality along with its smart looks, the DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand will ensure that your patio umbrella is going nowhere – even if the wind decides to kick up its heels.
diameter | 18-inch |
---|---|
rust-free | Yes |
coated finish | Yes |
standalone | Yes |
UV resistant | No |
easy to clean | Yes |
pattern | Cast stone |
weight | 22lbs |
pole size | 1 1/2" or 2" |
fills with sand or water | No |
made in USA | Yes |
resists cracking | No |
handle | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | Yes |
protects flooring | Yes |
This aesthetically pleasing patio umbrella stand is bronze in color, which adds a rich depth to regular patios as well as to decking and to grass surfaces. It also makes it easy to team with other garden furniture and, of course, your patio umbrella.
Because the DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand is constructed from composite stone, it weighs a very substantial 22lbs, which means that you can simply put it in place and leave it – without having to fill it with water or sand.
Being stone also means that this patio umbrella stand is not going to turn ugly over time because of rust so it doesn’t matter what the weather decides to do – your patio umbrella stand can withstand it.
The DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand can accommodate 1 1/2 inch and 2 inch diameter umbrella poles. To make a 1 1/2 inch diameter umbrella pole secure, you will need to use a plastic insert, but this is provided with the stand.
Pros
Sometimes it is necessary to thread an umbrella pole through a patio table for extra security for the umbrella.
If you have gone to great care (and expense) to get your garden looking right with suitable furniture then the last thing you want is to ruin the effect with the wrong patio umbrella stand, so let’s have a closer look at what this one has to offer.
- Table-free patio – not a problem for this baby: Sometimes it is necessary to thread an umbrella pole through a patio table for extra security for the umbrella. That’s fine if you want to sit at a table but what if you just want some sunbathing shade? No problem, this umbrella stand is sturdy enough on its own.
- A lock down bracket for extra security: How many times have you seen a patio umbrella on its side trying to make a quick getaway because the wind has grabbed it – and some poor hapless person chasing it? The DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand has a lock down bracket for added security so that won’t happen.
- Rust wouldn’t just make your umbrella stand turn ugly: We’ve already commented on how the DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand is not going to rust, but this also has another advantage. Your decking or patio is not going to become marked with ugly rust stains from this umbrella stand.
- Heavy enough to be effective but not stupidly so: It’s nice to know that a patio umbrella stand is heavy enough to do its job, but there are times when you want to move it – even take it camping or to the beach. The DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand ticks all these boxes.
- Economical and effective – what else is there? The DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand does the job that it is supposed to do while managing to look great all year-through, so what else does it have to offer? Oh yeah, a price that demonstrates great value for money!
- So what else can this patio umbrella stand do? We decided to do a little thinking outside the box and came up with a great idea for our DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand. Christmas trees. Yep, you read that right. We decided that this umbrella stand would make a great base for our outdoor Christmas tree – who needs the sun anyway?
Cons
So, we’ve discovered quite a few things that we like about the DC America Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand but it wouldn’t be fair to leave it at that – we need to tell you what we didn’t like about it, too.
- Getting rid of the wobble can be a pain: Although we were happy with the ease in which our patio umbrella fitted this stand, it took us far too long to be able to get it to stop wobbling. Eventually, we resorted to using a hand wrench because we couldn’t manage it without.
- Why do we use a patio umbrella? For the sun, right? Apart from the occasional Christmas tree, the point of a patio umbrella is to provide shade from the sun. Unfortunately, after our DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand had spent some time soaking up the rays, it split. Not a good look!
- The components need to live up to the stand: While we were thrilled that the DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand didn’t rust, we discovered that this wasn’t the case with the screws that held everything in place. In fact, one piece was so rusted we couldn’t remove it.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
diameter | 18-inch | 20-inch | 16.5-inch |
rust-free | Yes | Yes | No |
coated finish | Yes | Powder Coated | Resin body |
standalone | Yes | Yes | Yes |
UV resistant | No | Yes | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes | Yes | Yes |
pattern | Cast stone | Euro Deco | No |
weight | 22lbs | 30lbs | 50lbs |
pole size | 1 1/2" or 2" | 1 7/8", 1 3/8" and 1 1/2" | All |
fills with sand or water | No | No | Sand |
made in USA | Yes | Yes | No |
resists cracking | No | No | No |
handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | Yes | Yes | No |
protects flooring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
The composite stone it is constructed from means that you won’t ever need to fill this patio umbrella stand with water or sand.
The DC America 18″ Cast Stone Patio Umbrella Stand has a lot to offer. It is attractive and fits in with many garden furniture styles and color schemes – and it provides functionality.
It comes at a great price and can be utilized throughout the entire year. The composite stone it is constructed from means that you won’t ever need to fill this patio umbrella stand with water or sand and it fits different diameter poles.
However, too much sun can cause the stone to split and too much rain can cause some of the components to rust. If you are looking for a stand that will support your umbrella without wobbling, then you are going to be patient if you choose this one.
Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand
It’s great sitting outdoors in the summertime, but sometimes it’s crucial to have an umbrella which can give you some respite from the sun.
And of course, if you have an umbrella, you will need a base to keep it weighed down, so let’s have a look at the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand.
Information
No bells and whistles, just honest to goodness functionality to keep your patio umbrella in place while you enjoy sitting out.
If you are looking for a no nonsense patio umbrella stand that does the job then, according to Adams, this is the one for you.
No bells and whistles, just honest to goodness functionality to keep your patio umbrella in place while you enjoy sitting out.
And although it may not have the flash design and colors of other patio umbrella stands, the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand does offer excellent value.
The Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand will give your patio umbrella the stability it needs to protect you from the sun’s harsh and damaging rays. That way, you can sit in your backyard and enjoy the summer in the shade.
Constructed from high-quality resin, this patio umbrella stand will maintain its color throughout the seasons. Even though this product isn’t meant to be showy – it’ll still look good, and remain unobtrusive, for years to come.
diameter | 15-inch |
---|---|
rust-free | Yes |
coated finish | Resin |
standalone | No |
UV resistant | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes |
pattern | No |
weight | 1.8lbs (when empty) |
pole size | 1" to 1 1/2" |
fills with sand or water | Water |
made in USA | Yes |
resists cracking | Yes |
handle | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | Yes |
protects flooring | Yes |
In addition to the quality of its construction, the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand has been treated with a UV inhibitor so ultraviolet rays will not cause it to fade. This protection goes a long way in maintaining the stand’s understated appeal.
This is a light weight patio umbrella stand so you will need to fill it with sand or water to give it the heavy ballast that it needs to keep your patio umbrella in place, safely and securely.
For additional security, Adams has described its 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand as only being suitable for use with a patio table that can accommodate your patio umbrella pole. The base should not be used as a standalone umbrella stand otherwise it will blow over and could cause an injury.
Because it is lightweight, you will find the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand is easy to store should you decide to bring it in when you are not using it. Simply empty the water, if used, and pack away until next summer.
Pros
The Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand is available in a choice of colors so that you can match it to your existing patio furniture and umbrella.
Now we’ve done the meet and greet of the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand, it’s time to further our acquaintance and get to know this garden accessory a little better. That way, you can decide if it is the right one for you.
- Color your patio umbrella stand beautiful: The Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand is available in a choice of colors so that you can match it to your existing patio furniture and umbrella. Choose from white, hunter green, desert clay and sage for a contemporary look.
- Easy to clean, no fuss maintenance is what we’re all looking for: And that’s exactly what you will get with the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand Review. All that you will ever have to do to keep this stand clean is to give it a quick wipe over with a damp cloth.
- The go anywhere at any time umbrella stand: Weighing in at just 1.8 pounds means that you can take the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand anywhere for instant support for your patio umbrella. This makes it a great choice for camping trips or visits to the beach.
- For the times when size absolutely does matter: This patio umbrella stand is smaller than many others on the market – but that isn’t a bad thing. Particularly if you are the proud owner of bistro patio furniture. The smaller table of this kind of set needs to have a smaller base underneath it – otherwise where do your feet go?
- Absolutely no rust – and no components to go rusty either: Even if a patio umbrella stand is made from a rust-free material, like stone, for example, there’s a good chance that it will still have some components that will rust. Not the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand – no rusting – ever!
- Any surface is good for this umbrella stand: Regardless of whether you have grass, decking or concrete, the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand offers a great solution for supporting your patio umbrella without any fuss. The resin is strong enough to withstand sitting on stony ground without becoming damaged.
Cons
It would appear that we have made a new friend with the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand, but in keeping with many relationships, there is always something not to be as fond of.
- How many finger nails did we have to break: We would have been happier with the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand if the plug was easier to open so that we could fill it with water. We managed after a while but it was a pain.
- How do you get this thing emptied? This patio umbrella stand doesn’t have a plug at the bottom to make emptying it easy. Instead you have to turn the entire thing upside down. If you are leaving yours outside in the winter and it is likely to freeze, make sure you tip the water or the unit could split.
- So what’s your umbrella pole made out of? If you have a patio umbrella that has a wooden pole, it’s better to fill your Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand with sand rather than water – or not to leave it in there permanently otherwise there’s a chance it will rot.
Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
diameter | 15-inch | 20-inch | 16.5-inch |
rust-free | Yes | Yes | No |
coated finish | Resin | Powder Coated | Resin body |
standalone | No | Yes | Yes |
UV resistant | Yes | Yes | Yes |
easy to clean | Yes | Yes | Yes |
pattern | No | Euro Deco | No |
weight | 1.8lbs (when empty) | 30lbs | 50lbs |
pole size | 1" to 1 1/2" | 1 7/8", 1 3/8" and 1 1/2" | All |
fills with sand or water | Water | No | Sand |
made in USA | Yes | Yes | No |
resists cracking | Yes | No | No |
handle | Yes | Yes | Yes |
wind/storm resistant | Yes | Yes | No |
protects flooring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Summary
This patio umbrella stand is easy to store, and can be thrown in to the trunk of your car for some great summer getaways.
The Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand is a great choice if you are looking for a plain and simple stand that won’t cost you the earth. It is well constructed and features a UV inhibitor so the color won’t fade in the sun.
This patio umbrella stand is easy to store, and can be thrown in to the trunk of your car for some great summer getaways. The size of the stand makes it perfect for all patio furniture including smaller bistro tables.
The negative features of the Adams 15″ Resin Patio Umbrella Stand are minor in our opinion – we certainly don’t feel that they are deal breakers. In fact, you could do far worse than opt for this umbrella stand.
Buying Guide
Sunning yourself in the garden can become an arduous task – especially when you constantly have to adjust the patio umbrella to ensure it doesn’t blow away.
That’s where a dependable stand can come to the rescue, and stop this from happening.
No matter how large your patio umbrella is, or whether it’s slotted into a table, it’s never been easier to find an appropriate stand for your needs. Major manufacturers of some of the finest umbrellas in the market often offer reliable blocks to keep their products weighted down as an affordable accessory that will last for years to come.
The contours of the patio umbrella stand normally mean that it doesn’t have too much contact with the floor, and this eliminates any chance of an expensive patio becoming damaged in the long run.
You may be concerned that the stand – which is often made of fiberglass concrete, cast iron and stone – could scuff your flooring. However, the contours of the patio umbrella stand normally mean that it doesn’t have too much contact with the floor, and this eliminates any chance of an expensive patio becoming damaged in the long run.
The stand doesn’t have to be an eyesore on your garden, either. This is thanks to how many brands provide their products in a plethora of colors to complement your decking, furniture and the umbrella itself. A portable handle also means it can be carted out of the way during the cold winter months when you won’t really have any need for the umbrella anyway. As you can see, it’s a win-win situation all round!
To ensure that you save on shipping, help the local economy and receive a quality product that won’t crack and disintegrate at a moment’s notice, do check to see whether or not the patio umbrella stand in question has been made in the USA. It’s amazing how much this reduces your carbon footprint – and better still, it typically means that your patio umbrella stand will be shipped to you a lot faster than it would have been.
There are five crucial features that you should be looking for when you’re browsing the market for your patio umbrella stand – and we’re going to explore them in further detail throughout this guide.
Fills with sand or water
When you purchase a patio umbrella stand, you may notice that details are provided about the weight it can accommodate – typically around 50lbs. This refers to how heavy you can make the stand, ensuring that it keeps any patio umbrella grounded on the floor so it doesn’t blow away.
Usually, you will be given the option to fill the patio umbrella stand with either sand or water. Both have their uses. However, it’s crucial to check that the manufacturer hasn’t already filled the sand with one of these substances before sending it over to you – otherwise your shipping costs could be astronomical.
Once you get home, you might want to create a funnel which ensures that the patio umbrella stand can be filled without a spectacular mess being left on the floor.
Thankfully, purchasing some sand so you can complete the process yourself at home is a doddle – and it’s easy to get a 50lbs bag for just a few dollars.
Once you get home, you might want to create a funnel which ensures that the patio umbrella stand can be filled without a spectacular mess being left on the floor. In some cases, the stand will also come with an easy pouring spout to help you along.
Given its weight, water can also be a viable option in some circumstances. However, you should check the construction of your patio umbrella stand before you consider using water first – as if the temperature drops during the winter, the water inside the stand could freeze and cause the stand to crack and leak. This could then have a knock-on effect on the product’s ability to keep your patio umbrella grounded.
You should also bear in mind that many companies install a locking feature on the compartment which holds the sand and water.
As a result, it’s possible that you will be unable to empty the stand once it has been filled for the first time.
In many ways, this is a frustrating design flaw – and some shoppers have spoken of their annoyance that the stand locks in this fashion when reviewing the patio umbrella stands they have bought online.
Do make sure you fill it up with sand or water to the brim the first time round!
Wind/storm resistant
It’s also important to buy a patio umbrella stand that’s resistant to wind and storms. There are several consequences you’ll need to be braced for if it isn’t.
For example, you could find that your patio umbrella is flung across the garden if the stand hasn’t been built well enough to keep it upright in strong winds. Plus, if the stand hasn’t been weighted down sufficiently, there’s also a risk of it moving across your floor – leaving permanent marks which can cause your patio to look unkempt.
Getting a patio umbrella stand that’s compatible for use with a table is one way to keep wind and storm resistance to a minimum.
Getting a patio umbrella stand that’s compatible for use with a table is one way to keep wind and storm resistance to a minimum. It also ensures that the tablet itself won’t become displaced – even if the weather isn’t on your side.
Although manufacturers may not clearly state that their product is wind or storm resistant, you should see whether or not it’s been made out of sturdy materials – such as cast iron or concrete – which are far less likely to be moved around by unpredictable conditions.
Plus, it’s important that the stand is sufficiently coated, ideally with resin, to stop it from cracking during particularly hot or cold temperatures. Otherwise, it becomes possible that the space provided for you to insert the pole of your patio umbrella will contract or dilate – and, subsequently, it won’t be the right fit.
You should also consider whether or not your patio umbrella is durable when you’re purchasing it. The last thing you want is for a tear to appear in the product because it can’t withstand the elements.
As such, look for resilient fabric that won’t be weakened by sunlight. You’d be surprised how many umbrellas fail when it comes to UV resistance – and this means that although they are meant to shelter you from sunshine, dangerous rays could still penetrate through and pose a health risk.
Remember: if a product fails to meet your expectations, or proves defective, you are usually protected with a warranty which can lead to a replacement or a refund.
Coated finish
Having a patio umbrella stand with a coated finish makes a whole heap of difference to the end product and its durability. Typically, the stands are powder coated, which has a dry application rather than a liquid form. Once it has been applied it is cured with heat, which creates a ‘skin’.
This ‘skin’ protects the patio umbrella stands from the elements so that they are protected from oxidation, and, therefore, rusting. Not only does rust have a negative impact upon the appearance of the product, but it can also be damaging to the floor it is standing on.
It doesn’t matter how intricate the design of the patio umbrella stand is, the powder coating process can be applied and it doesn’t detract in any way from the aesthetically pleasing aspect of the stand.
It doesn’t matter how intricate the design of the patio umbrella stand is, the powder coating process can be applied and it doesn’t detract in any way from the aesthetically pleasing aspect of the stand.
Powder coated patio umbrella stands also allows the introduction of color to them, which also adds to their attractiveness. For example, a patio umbrella stand that is constructed from composite cast stone looks much better when it has been given a bronze or other colored wash.
This means that instead of simply buying a functional stand for your patio umbrella, you can choose one that complements the rest of your patio furniture, thus adding style to your yard and combining functionality with bang on trend or classic beauty.
As with anything, however, quality is everything – and sadly not all patio umbrella stand manufacturers are made equal. This means that the standard of the powder coating on some stands is not up to the quality of others – and price doesn’t always tell you which is which.
There seems to be little point in buying a powder coated patio umbrella stand because of the visual impact it makes and the protection it offers if it easily chips and becomes an unattractive encumbrance that offers only patchy resistance to rust.
We advise that you do some research before you make a final decision on which patio umbrella stand that you buy: read the reviews and see what other people’s experiences are.
UV resistant
UV resistance is something else that is used in the production of some patio umbrella stands to make sure that they keep their aesthetically pleasing looks for years to come by offering protection against damage from the sun.
Ultra violet light causes colors to fade, which is not a good look for a patio umbrella stand, and would be unavoidable if these stands were not protected – after all, it is the nature of their job that they spend lots of time in the sun!
Other benefits of using these polyesters is that they provide excellent durability and are resistant to cracking or any other damage.
Textolene (sometimes written as texteline) is the generic term for high strength polyesters that have a PVC compound and is the substance used to manufacture many patio umbrella stands, as well as other garden furniture, because of its resistance to UV light.
Other benefits of using these polyesters is that they provide excellent durability and are resistant to cracking or any other damage. This makes it feasible that a patio umbrella stand constructed with this material will last for many years to come.
These are the patio umbrella stands that you will see described as being composed of resin. These stands tend to have a more functional look than the more intricate designs offered by cast iron or cast stone umbrella stands.
What these patio umbrella stands lack in fancy looks, however, they make up for with vibrant colors designed to match other pieces of garden furniture so it is an important selling point that these colors will not fade over time.
Other advantages of this type of patio umbrella stand include being cheaper than those manufactured from other materials, they are easy to keep clean, and they are easy to store and to move about – which makes them a great choice to take with you on days out and on vacation.
Remember, that if you should choose to go with this type of patio umbrella stand, you will also need to fill it to give it the weight that you need for it to keep your patio umbrella secure. Water is a common filler, but sand is a heavier option.
Pole size
If you’ve got a patio umbrella, then all you need to do is to choose an umbrella stand that you like the look of, and that is priced within your budget, right? Wrong, patio umbrellas tend to have different sized poles so you need to get a stand that it will fit.
All patio umbrella stands will state what size pole they will take, so make sure you know what size you are looking for before you begin the search for the right stand. To make things easier, the stands will have parameters – that is, they will accept two or three different sizes.
If you opt for a resin patio umbrella stand and the pole on your umbrella is made from wood, either fill the stand with sand or don’t leave the umbrella permanently in the water, or it will start to rot.
There are a couple of different ways in which they can do this. The first is that they provide a component that sits within the tube that holds the umbrella in order to accommodate umbrella poles that have a smaller diameter.
The second way that manufacturers deal with this issue is to use a screw that tightens the tube and makes it smaller. If you find a stand that uses this option, check out the screw – some are pointed, which over time, can damage the pole as the umbrella moves with the wind.
This doesn’t have to be a deal breaker if you really like the look of the patio umbrella stand – you can file the tip of the screw so that it sits flat against the pole, but we thought we should make you aware of this potential problem.
Another word of caution so that you can bear it in mind when you are making your choice. If you opt for a resin patio umbrella stand and the pole on your umbrella is made from wood, either fill the stand with sand or don’t leave the umbrella permanently in the water, or it will start to rot.
Some patio umbrella stands offer more gradations in size than others but you will be able to find stands that start with a small pole size of an inch upwards, and other stands that have a wider tube and will accommodate poles up to two inches.
It is important that you get the right size patio umbrella stand. Obviously if the tube is not big enough for your umbrella it is going to be a useless accessory, but if it is too big, the umbrella will have too much movement and could become dangerous if it were to tip over.
Easy to Clean
As you may have already supposed, the ease of cleaning a patio umbrella stand also depends upon its construction. The easiest by far to keep clean are the stands that are made from resin – but, it has to be said, these are the ones that show up the dirt the most.
All patio umbrella stands are going to get wind blown dust on them, and they are also going to get splattered with muddy particles when it rains, but the stone and concrete models seem to carry this off more easily. However, cleaning a resin patio umbrella stand just means wiping a damp cloth over it or blasting it with the hose. Mild detergents can be used on more stubborn stains.
Although, as we have said, the stone and concrete patio umbrella stands tend not to look as grubby as their resin cousins, there may come a time when you are not happy with its weathered look and want to do something about it.
Something else to watch for on resin patio umbrella stands that can increase their difficulty in cleaning them is scratches. Although they are resilient (some more so than others) scratches can occur and these seem to be magnets for grime.
Although, as we have said, the stone and concrete patio umbrella stands tend not to look as grubby as their resin cousins, there may come a time when you are not happy with its weathered look and want to do something about it.
Brushing them when they are dry may be effective up to a point but for a deeper clean a stiff brush and the garden hose may offer a better solution. For the ultimate clean, you could use a jet wash – but it’s wise to do this cautiously in case the stand isn’t up to the force of the water.
Another contributory factor as to how easy it will be to clean your patio umbrella stand is how intricate its design is. Obviously, the more swirls and nooks and crannies it has, the more difficult it is going to be to keep clean.
Again, brushing and hosing will help, but if you have a patio umbrella stand with a design that harbors more dirt than you like, perhaps storing it in your garage, basement or loft is a solution for the worst of the winter months.
Before you forget the idea of buying a patio umbrella stand that sports intricacy, have a look for one that has been powder coated. This application can be found on a number of cast iron and cast stone stands and is useful for making the stand easier to clean than an untreated version.
Weight
Weight is an important factor when it comes to patio umbrella stands. They need to be able to provide the ballast to stop your umbrella from tipping over – or worse, blowing away. Some stands, for example the cast stone and the cast iron versions already have this weight.
Others, such as the resin stands and the table stands need to be filled with something to provide the weight. The usual choice of filler is sand or water. Both are heavy, although sand provides the most weight, and therefore, the most stability. Pouring sand into a stand with a small opening, however, is time consuming.
The weight of your patio umbrella stand also depends on whether you are going to use it with a patio table that has a hole in the middle to support the umbrella, or whether you want your umbrella to stand alone.
Deciding which to go for – already heavy or adding the weight, is an important decision. If you want to take your patio umbrella and stand on vacation, then it makes sense to go for a lighter version. If, however you want a permanent feature that won’t be moved often, then the heavier umbrella stands are still in the running.
The weight of your patio umbrella stand also depends on whether you are going to use it with a patio table that has a hole in the middle to support the umbrella, or whether you want your umbrella to stand alone.
If you choose the first option, the patio umbrella stand doesn’t have to be as heavy as the stand alone version because the table will offer stability and a defence against the umbrella tipping over or blowing away.
Your location will also have a bearing upon how much weight you need in your patio umbrella stand. If you live in an area that is subject to windy conditions then you will need a heavier stand than an area that only gets light breezes.
Architectural structures should also be taken into consideration. If you are going to be using your umbrella stand on a balcony ten floors up, you need to make sure that umbrella is going nowhere. Electrical pylons are another hazard if a ‘flying’ umbrella takes off – so make sure your stand carries enough weight.
Lastly, consider the size of your umbrella. Contemporary trends see larger than average versions offering maximum shade – but these are more likely to compete for air space than smaller umbrellas and so need to be weighted down. The fiberglass reinforced concrete table stands mentioned earlier can take 70lbs of sand.
Resists Cracking
The quality of a patio umbrella stand often determines the likelihood of it cracking so it’s worth checking out some individual reviews to find out what experiences other people have had with their stands.
The biggest cause of cracking (besides poor workmanship) is being exposed to the elements. Variations in weather extremes can have an impact upon the integrity of a patio umbrella stand and cause it to crack.
If the temperature rises too much it could have a negative effect on composite cast stone patio umbrella stands.
Although too hot a sun can make a resin patio umbrella stand soften, it won’t make it crack. Too cold a temperature, however, can because if the stand is filled with water and it freezes, the water will expand and put too much pressure onto the resin.
If the temperature rises too much it could have a negative effect on composite cast stone patio umbrella stands. The reason for this is that the stone will bake and become too brittle, In some instances, this leads to more than just cracks – the entire thing could fall to pieces.
If you need to move a composite cast stone umbrella stand, be careful how you pick it up. Not only are they heavy but if it has cracked there is a chance that a piece of it could break away completely and cause injury to your feet.
The fiberglass reinforcement in a concrete patio umbrella stand (not all concrete stands have this reinforcement so check it out before you buy) should prevent cracking due to weather conditions, but again check out reviews on particular brands and models.
Cast iron patio umbrella stands are the least likely to crack – although it isn’t completely unheard of. Overall, however, they offer the strongest construction. These depend upon their own weight as ballast and these vary so check for the right one.
And finally, it isn’t only the effects of weather that can cause a patio umbrella stand to crack. A stone or concrete one can crack if it is dropped or is blown over so make sure that you move them carefully and you make sure that they are heavy enough not to allow the latter happen to them.
Protects Flooring
The design of a patio umbrella stand impacts heavily on whether it is going to damage or protect your floor. The other deciding factor, of course, is what your floor is constructed from.
If you are going to place your patio umbrella stand onto grass then the grass will turn yellow in a matter of days and eventually die if it doesn’t get air and water. This means that a stand that has an open design will offer the most protection, as will moving your stand often.
We’ve already mentioned how a cast iron patio umbrella stand can have a negative impact on some flooring because of rust stains, so if you have set your heart on a cast iron stand, choose an open-designed stand for your lawn.
We’ve already mentioned how a cast iron patio umbrella stand can have a negative impact on some flooring because of rust stains, so if you have set your heart on a cast iron stand, choose an open-designed stand for your lawn.
Open designs for cast iron patio umbrella stands also offer some rust staining protection because rain water doesn’t remain trapped underneath them; instead it evaporates quickly leaving no time for oxidation.
Decking is a popular yard option and makes a great area to sit out to enjoy the rest of the garden. Patio umbrella stands, however, can damage the wood depending upon their construction. Iron can leave stains and stone or concrete can scratch it if you pull the stand rather than lifting it when you want to move it.
Some patio umbrella stands don’t have a base to the tube that the umbrella pole sits in. That might not sound like a biggy but it means that the umbrella pole sits on the ground – and any movement means that it will scratch the floor or dig up your grass.
As long as they are heavy enough to do the job that they are intended for, a patio umbrella stand that sits on a rim allows air to circulate under the majority of the stand. This will allow water to evaporate and will offer protection to floors.
Overall, you are asking a product that by its very function has to sit on the ground and has to be heavy. This is going to have some impact upon the surface in some way but we have outlined some of the features to look for in a patio umbrella stand if you want to minimize any damage.
Handle
This is something that some patio umbrella stands have and others don’t. And the price of the stand doesn’t seem to have any impact on this feature – a budget end stand is just as likely to have a handle (or not) as a high end product.
Some handles on patio umbrella stands are little more than an integrated lip which seems to us nothing more than a manufacturer paying lip service to the idea of providing a handle and is a waste of everybody’s time.
A handle needs to be up to the job and it needs to be functional – and it shouldn’t detract from the overall good looks of your patio umbrella stand.
A handle needs to be up to the job and it needs to be functional – and it shouldn’t detract from the overall good looks of your patio umbrella stand.
If you are going to be moving your patio umbrella stand around a lot, then a handle could be a useful accessory but it has to work in order to be productive. We advise checking a few out in store to make sure they are right for your grip – even if you then decide to purchase online.
This advice also holds true for looking at the overall quality of the handle. Not only is there little point in having a handle that isn’t firmly attached to the patio umbrella stand, but if it were to fall off while you were carrying it you could injure yourself quite badly.
A round patio umbrella stand that has a handle on it makes for easy movement. The combination of handle and shape means that you can tip the stand onto its side and then roll it to where you want it to be.
Patio umbrella stands that need to be filled with sand or water are not easily to empty – and this is a necessary task for storage, for winter protection and for the times when you want to take your stand on your travels.
Having a handle on one of these patio umbrella stands makes the job a whole lot easier. You have something to initially grab onto, which makes pulling the stand onto its side a doddle, and then you have something to hold to make the stand steady while you empty it – less mess and no soaking feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you like the idea of a patio umbrella stand that you can use at home as well as on day trips and on vacation, then it makes sense to buy a lightweight one. That might sound contradictory because an umbrella stand needs to be heavy to keep the umbrella secure.
However, you can buy resin patio umbrella stands that weigh as little as one pound. The key here is to fill them with sand or water in order to give them the weight that they need. An additional bonus to resin models is that they are inexpensive and easy to keep clean.
If you are looking for a fancier stand that will complement existing furniture, have a look at powder coated models.
If you have plastic garden furniture, resin patio umbrella stands also come in colors that match and are usually UV resistant so that the color won’t fade. If you are looking for a fancier stand that will complement existing furniture, have a look at powder coated models.
These are available constructed from cast iron or cast composite stone and each has its own virtues – as well as disadvantages. The weight of these varies, so make sure you choose one that is heavy enough – but bear in mind you may want to move it – without slipping a disc.
A further option is the range of fiberglass reinforced concrete models that have a dual purpose. Not only are these patio umbrella stands, but they are also an attractive table. These come in a number of aesthetically pleasing designs and, as well as being functional, they create impact to any outdoor living space.
Besides choosing a model that you like the look at, there are other things to consider when you buy a patio umbrella stand. For example, will it fit your existing umbrella? To get this right, simply measure the diameter of the umbrella pole and choose a stand that accommodates that size.
Also think about your location. Naturally, you are expecting sun otherwise why bother with a patio umbrella stand, but how much wind and rain does your region have. The reason for this criterion is to assess how much weight and overall size your patio umbrella stand needs to have.
What is the diameter of the patio umbrella stand?
Did you know that tall people who have small feet have a tendency to fall over more than other people? True story. And the same rule also applies to patio umbrella stands. If you have a large patio umbrella then you will need a stand that is in proportion to its size so it doesn’t tip.
That doesn’t mean that a patio umbrella stand that has a smaller diameter than others is going to be useless. On the contrary, they are perfectly adequate for smaller umbrellas, especially if they are placed in a sheltered spot.
Patio umbrella stands that have a larger diameter are more appropriate for larger umbrellas and furniture.
Other times when a smaller patio umbrella stand can be useful is for small areas, such as a tiny patio or balcony – but please ensure it is big enough for this scenario – an airborne umbrella from height could be very dangerous.
Consider, too, the size of your other patio furniture. Your patio umbrella and its stand need to look proportional if you want an effective look. But it also matters on a practical level. If you have a bistro-type patio table then a smaller umbrella stand is the better option.
Patio umbrella stands that have a larger diameter are more appropriate for larger umbrellas and furniture, but they are also necessary if your location is the recipient of lots of stormy weather otherwise you may have to contact air traffic control!
When you go to buy a patio umbrella stand, you won’t have to take your tape measure with you – manufacturers are aware of the importance of a stand’s diameter and so always state it in the product information.
A final word on the diameter of a patio umbrella stand. Although its diameter is important when it comes to an umbrella not tipping over or becoming a missile, these safety concerns also need to be addressed by buying a heavy enough patio umbrella stand.
Is the stand rust free?
There are several different types of rust but simplistically put, it is the reaction of iron, or its alloys, and moisture – and left to its own devices it will eventually cause the destruction of whatever it is that is rusting.
That is not something that anyone wants to happen to their patio umbrella stand, but it doesn’t have to be a foregone conclusion that it will. For a start, if you choose a stand that isn’t made of cast iron, you are not going to get rust.
We advise that you check out individual patio umbrella stand reviews to see what other users have to say on the matter before making your final decision as to which patio umbrella stand to buy.
Having said that, some patio umbrella stands are largely made from materials such as resin, stone or concrete and yet have some metal components, which can rust. This can cause problems, especially if they are parts that need to move because rust can prevent this from happening.
We advise that you check out individual patio umbrella stand reviews to see what other users have to say on the matter before making your final decision as to which patio umbrella stand to buy.
There is an attractiveness about cast iron patio umbrella stands, that can be hard to resist, so if you have set your heart on one then of these then there are things to bear in mind to reduce the risk of rust occurring.
Firstly, choose a patio umbrella stand that has been powder coated. This offers protection against oxidation so there is less chance of rust – and it is worth checking to see if the manufacturer offers any warranties against rust.
Finally, if you are especially concerned about rust because you live in a humid or excessively rainy area perhaps, then there are many preparations on the market that you can paint on yourself to inhibit rust.
Does it have a pattern?
Even some of the more basic resin patio umbrella stands feature some kind of pattern even if it is a simple geometric patterning of lines to give them some aesthetic appeal. Umbrella stands made from other materials invariably offer some design features.
Obviously, the first thing to look for is a pattern that appeals to you – there’s little point getting one that you really don’t like, but there are some things that you should think about to aid your decision.
An open design pattern will enable rainwater to evaporate quickly so there is no detrimental lengths of time where the water is sitting underneath the stand and causing rot to your deck, or for rust to occur and to stain your patio.
For example, what kind of flooring are you going to place your patio umbrella stand on – and how will the stand impact upon that? For example, if you have a ‘closed’ pattern (that is, a solid stand with no holes in it) no air can circulate under it – which will kill grass.
An open design pattern will enable rainwater to evaporate quickly so there is no detrimental lengths of time where the water is sitting underneath the stand and causing rot to your deck, or for rust to occur and to stain your patio.
A solid base pattern, however, is easier to keep clean. There are no spaces for windswept leaves to gather, and you won’t have to deal with cleaning in between each gap. Instead, depending upon the material, a quick wipe with a cloth or a squirt from the garden hose will do the trick.
The pattern that you will choose will also depend upon the style of your garden and the designs on the rest of your patio furniture. If these all lean to swirls and sweeping lines then a square patio umbrella stand with geometric detailing will clash.
And of course, the reverse is true. Fortunately there are so many patio umbrella stands to choose from that the problem will be too much choice. And remember, there aren’t just these ‘flat’ styles to choose from – how about a table patio umbrella stand in the shape of an elephant?
Is it a standalone model?
A standalone patio umbrella stand is one that doesn’t need the added support of a patio table to keep the umbrella upright. (In this instance, the umbrella pole goes through a hole in the middle of the patio table before going into the stand on the floor).
Finding the right stand that will enable your umbrella to stay where you put it isn’t the easiest of tasks. Some manufacturers will say quite categorically that a particular stand is not suitable for this task, but many others say nothing at all, which means that you have to do some homework.
Basically, the thing that determines whether a patio umbrella stand is capable of supporting an umbrella on its own is the weight of it- pure and simple, there is nothing else to it.
Basically, the thing that determines whether a patio umbrella stand is capable of supporting an umbrella on its own is the weight of it- pure and simple, there is nothing else to it.
But the necessary weight is determined by other factors, such as the size of the umbrella and what kind of weather conditions are likely – even hot locations with little rain are prone to heavy winds.
So, what are we looking at? A 20lb patio umbrella stand should never be used for an umbrella that you wish to have as a standalone. In fact, this size of stand should only be used, with a table, for umbrellas that are under 6 feet.
A 30lb stand can accommodate umbrellas up to 6.5 feet – again with a table in place. The minimum weight for a standalone umbrella should be 40lbs, but only for umbrellas that are no bigger than 4.5 feet.
A 50lb patio umbrella stand will accommodate a standalone umbrella up to 7.5 feet, but for larger umbrellas, or in areas that get heavy winds, a minimum weight of 70lbs is recommended.
Has it been made in the USA?
Does it bother you what the provenance of the things you buy is? Or do you not really mind as long as you get it for a good price? We are going to look at some of the reasons why it pays to know where our stuff comes from.
Naturally, if we buy a patio umbrella stand that has been manufactured in the USA, we are supporting our national industries – as well as ensuring that American people are in employment.
It isn’t just the nation that benefits, however when we buy patio umbrella stands that have been made in the States, it’s the entire planet.
The bigger picture for this is that buying as many American goods as we can help the overall economy of the country, which is always good and puts the nation on a better worldwide footing.
It isn’t just the nation that benefits, however when we buy patio umbrella stands that have been made in the States, it’s the entire planet. Having a smaller carbon footprint makes a very real impact on reducing the damage that we are all doing to our planet.
If this is a real concern for you (and why wouldn’t it be?) then look carefully at the patio umbrella stand that you have your eye on. Some of them are actually constructed in the States but use components that come from abroad – which doesn’t really help with the air miles issue.
Sometimes it is tempting to buy items such as patio umbrella stands directly from abroad because they are offering a lower price than an American made alternative. Think of the real cost, however, (aside from the cost to the planet). These stands are heavy so shipping costs could outweigh any savings.
Even if a foreign supplier offers favorable shipping costs, what if there is a problem with the patio umbrella stand that you buy. It could be faulty, or you just plain don’t like it – but it’s going to cost you a fortune to return it.
Sources
- How to Keep Your Belongings From Becoming Trashed by Hurricanes, Office of Response and Restoration, June 22, 2015
- The Best Patio Umbrella and Stand, The Wirecutter, May 12, 2017
- Best Patio Umbrellas, Ezvid Wiki, Oct 18, 2017
- The Patio Umbrella Buyers Guide with All the Answers, Patio Productions, April 29, 2014
- Our Review Of The 10 Best Patio Umbrellas, The Backyard Gnome, August 21, 2016
- Buying Guide: Find The Best Outdoor Patio Umbrella For Your Home, Huffington Post, May 14, 2012
- Patio Umbrella Buying Guide, PatioShoppers.com
- The Top 10 Outdoor Patio and Pool Umbrellas, The Spruce, October 23, 2017
- The 5 Best Patio Umbrella Styles, Umbrellify.net
- Garden Furniture, Wikipedia