Fabric for patio umbrellas comes in different ranges of quality, price and colors.

First lets talk practical. Here quality and price go together. A polyester, thinner, and less expensive fabric may serve you well if you regularly put away your umbrella when you are not using it and are careful to store it during the off season months.

A more durable fabric is better for those of you (like me) who will leave it out in the hot sun and rain full time. In this case paying more for a better fabric that doesn't fade and lasts longer is the smart choice.

It is important to look for a fabric that has been treated with chemicals to protect it from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This treatment protects the fabric from fading and getting brittle from the extreme heat of the sun. It also protects the guests under the umbrella from the effects of UV radiation.

Sunbrella Umbrella

Sunbrella outdoor fabric is used for outdoor chair and chaise cushions, hammocks, pillows, awnings and patio umbrellas. Some of the reasons people love this outdoor fabric is because of its durability and easy maintenance. Stain and mildew resistance are important features to consider when selecting your umbrella fabric.

We just purchased a new patio umbrella and decided to spend a little extra on the Sunbrella fabric in order to get a fade and stain resistant umbrella.

Coolaroo Umbrella

Coolaroo fabric is another great option for your pool umbrella. How would you like an umbrella that can actually help to reduce the temperature making it more comfortable for you and your guests?

This fabric can do just that. Not only is it very durable, but it offers a unique design that allows the fabric to breathe which then reduces the temperature of the air under the Coolaroo umbrella. The fabric is a more open weave and let's the air move through the umbrella. Because of the open weave, more water comes through when it rains, leaving the table and chairs wet.

We have recently purchased two patio umbrellas - one made of Sunbrella fabric and the other one is made of Coolaroo fabric. Actually we like them both. The Coolaroo umbrella was a better choice for our 11' umbrella as it was more than $200 less than what we would have paid for the same size umbrella made from Sunbrella fabric.

To see pictures comparing the Sunbrella patio umbrella to the Coolaroo umbrella click here: