Custom Patio Blog

If you have a patio space without shade, and the trees you have planted are sure to take a few years before they get to your height, look for patio umbrellas to provide that shade in an interesting way.

Patio umbrellas come in many shapes and sizes, and professionals can install the most complex umbrellas in the shortest time.

Here are tips to help you pick out and set up a patio umbrella that is right for your yard:

1. Get your desired umbrella materials

Since the main purpose of the umbrella is to block the sun’s rays and to protect from light rain, you can choose umbrellas made of different materials.

You will find more of shade cloth, canvas, and PVC compared to other materials. PVC patio umbrellas are very effective, and you can get different colors or even clear ones, whichever suits your patio best.

2. Know where to place the umbrella

Most people go for two types of umbrellas, those that go through a table, and those that stand on their own. Regardless of the choice you settle with, your umbrella should serve its purpose, which is to provide some protection from rain or sun.

Where to place your umbrella will determine its effectiveness, and if you are not exactly sure where to position it, get invaluable advice from a professional.

3. Choose umbrella stands that complement your style

The basic function of an umbrella stand is to hold up the umbrella and prevent it from falling or flying away when strong winds blow. Depending on the color theme or material you choose for your patio, make sure to apply the same concept when settling on the stands. Choose your umbrella stand wisely, keep in mind that a wider and firmer base is better for stability, and a movable base allows you to change easily reposition the umbrella.

4. Get an umbrella shape that complements the shape of the patio

If you have a circular theme, or if your space is almost circular, then circular umbrellas will do wonders for your space. However, you can get umbrellas of different shapes to make your patio unique. You can even get custom-made shapes for an even more eye-catching effect on your patio.

5. Get the size that will cover the entire patio space

Before you go in search of a patio umbrella, measure the size of your patio in order to determine what umbrella size will work for you. For a small patio, table umbrellas are ideal, and you can have as many umbrellas as the tables on your patio. For larger spaces, you can go for bigger umbrellas that can cover the whole area.

6. Talk to professionals about your intentions

Professional contractors have insights when it comes to patio umbrellas, and getting advice from a professional company will help you make an informed choice. Professional contractors will look into the details such as installation, stability, design, the effect of the local climate and other aspects that a homeowner might overlook.

The design of the patio is the biggest consideration you need to make when thinking of patio materials you want to use. If you get the right materials for your patio and use them well, you can expect that it will last for decades.

Here are some of the most popular patio materials in Houston that you will find:

1. Concrete – If you want to save some cash, concrete should be your choice material. A concrete patio will also last a very long time and will require very little maintenance. You can design your patio any way you want it using concrete and you can make use of decorative tiles to make your patio even more attractive.

2. Flagstone – This beautiful stone comes in blue, buff and red; and if your patio design leans towards any of these colors, then Flagstone is the material you should go for. Flagstone is formed from the slow accumulation of clay, sand, organic sediments and minerals over a long period. Using this stone will give your patio a timeless earthy appearance, one that you will never get tired of looking at.

3. Gravel – Gravel is a material that is quick and easy to use, and you can choose either the crushed stone or the river rock gravel. This material is not only easy to work with, but it will also prevent the growth of any weeds or logging of water. The only concern that comes with gravel is that it takes some work to keep the stones level, and may be uncomfortable to walk on with bare feet.

4. Patio Pavers – Concrete or stone pavers are your best bet when it comes to using patio pavers, though there are also clay pavers and those made from recycled plastics. These pavers come in a range of colors, sizes and shapes, making them easy to work with.

5. Clay Brick – This material has been a staple for patios and other building constructions for years. You do not need to be a professional to use clay brick since it is easy to handle in terms of size and weight. Use it to come up with numerous and beautiful patterns to decorate your patio.

When you choose the best materials to build your patio with, consider the advantage of getting a professional to help you create a patio where you will always love to hang out. A professional can also share tips on the best way to take care of your patio so it will last for years.