Selection and uses of large parasols
When we step out onto the balcony and see the first rays of sunshine, we remember the usefulness of equipping our garden with one or more parasols. And when we need to protect a large area, we often need a large parasol . Parasols are indispensable for creating shaded and inviting outdoor spaces , suitable for various uses and different sizes of terraces.
This guide shows you how to choose from the great models of Belveo parasols , and ensure the best protection for your garden or to guarantee shade for your outdoor dining table.
Take the size of the area into account when determining the size of the parasol.
Settling into a garden lounge or spreading out a towel by the pool to enjoy the beautiful weather are the best parts of a holiday. The only downside: the sun threatens to cause sunstroke or sting the eyes of anyone unwisely stepping onto their patio without having considered the situation. Therefore, finding effective protection is essential, and buying a parasol is a must.
Belveo parasols come in a variety of sizes and models, offering diameters suitable for covering a large area. Before making your purchase, measure your patio to determine the ideal parasol size . Options range from 2-meter models to the largest, over 5 meters in diameter, suitable for large patios requiring maximum coverage.
Large parasols are generally versatile . They are suitable for residential areas as well as café and restaurant terraces . They are perfect for creating outdoor dining areas, relaxation spaces, or shaded reading nooks on the beach or by the pool. Cantilever parasols are better suited to fixed use, so they are not recommended for the beach, where a straight parasol is more appropriate.
What type of parasol should I choose?
When discussing large parasols, people often refer to cantilever models, meaning parasols with an extended pole to ensure stability and provide ample shade . A straight parasol can also support a canopy five meters or more , provided its pole and base are of good quality and made of a sturdy material , such as wood or steel rather than aluminum. If the base is lightweight, the parasol's weight must be increased with a heavy base, otherwise it will lose its shade in the first gust of wind.
In general, the base must be adapted to the size of the parasol : whether the mast is made of aluminium or wood, the diameter of the base must increase proportionally with that of the canvas for optimal balance.
The canopy of a cantilever parasol is often rectangular , but a square or round canopy is also possible. The key question is the area the shade will cover. Is it a long table, or an area near the pool? In the first case, a rectangular canopy is generally preferred, and in the second, a round one.
The balcony parasol , designed to be hung on a railing , is rarely more than three meters wide, and is therefore not suitable for a large table on the terrace.
To adjust the shade to suit your needs , you can use two parasols instead of one . Purchasing a waterproof gutter allows you to connect the two canopies and enjoy the shade provided by a single large parasol. It is therefore recommended to choose two identical models for maximum compatibility.
From a practical point of view, setting up and using the parasol should be simple and pleasant: test the type of opening, check that the parts are easy to identify and operate.
The design and materials of the parasol: essential selection criteria
The parasols available at Belveo stand out for their attractive design and practical features . Some models offer tilt or rotation systems to adjust the shade throughout the day. Others are equipped with integrated LED lights to extend your evenings outdoors. Choose a design that complements the aesthetics of your outdoor space while offering the additional features you might need.
Opt for parasols made from robust and durable materials such as aluminum, steel, and quality wood . These materials offer good weather resistance and ensure a long lifespan for the parasol, providing solid protection against the sun and the elements.
For the canopy, cotton is often too fragile to provide the durability required for a large parasol. Polyester canopies are the most common : strong and economical, they are suitable for most parasols. However, prolonged use of the parasol may necessitate a different material if you don't want to replace the canopy regularly. Acrylic canopies can then be recommended, for use in a public swimming pool, for example.
In all cases, the parasol canopy must be covered with a cover when not in use , regardless of its quality or the material it's made of. This protects it from dirt. Buying the cover at the same time as the parasol ensures you get the right size and that the colors of the canopy and cover match.
Large parasols should be designed for ease of use and maintenance. Simple opening and closing mechanisms ensure convenient everyday use. Furthermore , stain-resistant and easy-to-clean materials guarantee hassle-free upkeep. Accessories and spare parts should be readily available and replaceable, allowing the parasol to be repaired or upgraded as needed. Belveo ensures that its parasols are fully repairable by providing the necessary spare parts when required.
Aesthetic considerations: the design and colors of the parasol
A parasol cannot be judged solely on its sturdiness and the size of the shade it casts. Such a visible accessory on the patio or in the garden should have its own distinct character. The best parasols are those that have a reassuring presence but also blend, to some extent, into the surrounding landscape.
The colors of a parasol can be chosen based on practical criteria (light colors show dirt easily, dark colors absorb heat), but the aesthetic aspect should not be neglected. The colors can be coordinated with your garden furniture or even your indoor furnishings. It's best to avoid bright, garish colors and opt for neutral tones, which won't draw attention. If in doubt, asking friends for their opinion is always a good idea before buying a parasol.
Belveo 's range of parasols offers a wide variety of choices to meet the needs of large terraces , combining functionality, durability, and aesthetics. Whether you're creating outdoor relaxation areas or providing optimal comfort for your customers , these parasols are essential partners for fully enjoying your outdoor space , whatever its use.
The best products logically receive positive reviews on the Internet: you can therefore be guided by this recommendation system to make a purchase of a large parasol based on user experience.