Parasols for effective sun protection
Relaxing in your garden or on your patio when the weather is fine is the very definition of a holiday. But the downside is well known: the sun is both your best friend and your worst enemy. It warms you, but makes you sweat profusely. It illuminates you, but it also dazzles you. It gives you a tan, but it also causes sunburn. To enjoy your garden while protecting yourself, there are several options: sunglasses, sunscreen, a pergola, or an awning stretched over the patio … But to ensure a comprehensive, adaptable, and effective solution, Belveo recommends choosing a parasol that matches the layout of your outdoor space.
The sun: ally or danger?
The risks of prolonged sun exposure are numerous . UV rays have a harmful effect on the skin , causing not only sunburn but also premature aging of the epidermis , and can lead to the long-term development of skin cancer.
The intense heat of the sun can also cause heatstroke , leading to dizziness and nausea. To enjoy the outdoors safely, it's best to provide ample shade: what better than a Belveo parasol?
The protection provided by a parasol
To be well protected from the sun's rays, you need to select the product that best suits your space. If your garden furniture is facing due south and has no natural shade, it's wise to opt for a parasol that offers strong UV filtration, for example.
The UPF rating (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) indicates the level of protection a material offers against the sun's rays. A UPF of 20 provides very low UV protection and is insufficient for a high-performance parasol. A UPF of 30 is the minimum rating, and 50 is even preferable . Less common, a fabric offering 80 UPF protection is only justified in extremely exposed locations.
The parasol canopy material must therefore provide adequate protection . A polyester canopy may be sufficient, but an olefin or acrylic canopy offers greater comfort by maintaining a certain coolness under its shade.
To choose an effective parasol , you must pay attention to its size and shape. There are different types of parasols , each with a specific structure. A straight parasol is easy to install, but a cantilever parasol , like the Belveo Mistral tilting parasol , provides a large shaded area without the need for a central pole.
Do you need to move the parasol frequently, or do you intend to leave it in the same place most of the time? In the first case, a straight parasol with a wheeled base is the best choice. If the parasol is intended for more stationary use, a cantilever parasol with a base fixed to the patio ground is preferable.
Choosing and installing your parasol
Belveo offers a wide range of parasol models , with prices varying according to durability and the range of accessories included. Choosing the right type of parasol allows you to best furnish your garden furniture, both in terms of shade and style. The color of the parasol is important: the canopy , the pole, and even the base are available in different colors to match your furniture.
The location of the parasol should be chosen according to the area you want to protect , but must also take into account wind exposure. If there is a risk of the parasol blowing away, the base should be weighted down accordingly, or even secured to the ground with screws.
The computer parasol: an unexpected but effective product
For the mobile worker who can't bring a parasol to the café terrace where they set up their computer, Belveo offers a solution that protects the device while maintaining screen visibility. It's a laptop sunshade made of opaque, reflective fabric that filters sunlight while preserving screen brightness. Of course, the user doesn't benefit from UV protection, so it's essential to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid any health problems.
