Parasols

Create Comfortable Shade Outdoors

A garden parasol helps make dining, lounging and relaxing outside more comfortable through the brighter parts of the day.

Use one over a dining set, beside a sofa or corner arrangement, or near sun loungers where more targeted shade is needed. Choose around the area you want to cover, the furniture underneath and the space available for the base.

Cantilever or Traditional Parasol?

A cantilever parasol supports the canopy from the side, keeping the shaded area beneath it free from a central pole.

This makes it particularly useful over outdoor sofas, dining sets and larger lounge arrangements where you want the furniture to remain open and easy to use.

A more traditional parasol can work well where a central position suits the furniture layout, particularly around dining tables designed to accommodate one.

Choose the Right Size for Your Furniture

Think about the furniture you want to shade rather than the patio as a whole.

A dining area needs enough coverage for both the table and occupied chairs, while sofas and corner sets may benefit from a broader canopy over several seats. Sun loungers usually need more selective shade.

Compare the canopy dimensions with the full furniture arrangement before choosing.

Why a Weighted Base Matters

A suitable base helps keep the parasol stable and correctly positioned.

Where the base is supplied with the parasol, the two have been selected to work together. Check the individual product specification for exact base weight and construction.

Beige or Grey?

Beige creates a softer, warmer look and works naturally with timber, cream upholstery and lighter finishes.

Grey gives a cooler, more contemporary feel and pairs well with darker aluminium frames and architectural patio settings.

Choose the shade that best complements the furniture, paving and materials already in the space.

Look for Adjustable Shade

The sun moves throughout the day, so an adjustable parasol can make the coverage more useful.

Rotating and tilting designs allow the canopy to be repositioned without moving the entire base. Consider how easily the parasol opens, closes and adjusts as well as the overall canopy size.

UV Protection and Outdoor Use

Look for canopy fabrics designed to provide strong UV protection and suit regular outdoor use.

Always follow the operating guidance for the individual parasol, particularly in stronger winds. Close the canopy when recommended and avoid leaving an open parasol unattended in unsuitable conditions.

Garden Parasol FAQs

What is the difference between a garden parasol and a cantilever parasol?

A cantilever parasol supports the canopy from an offset arm, leaving the shaded area beneath it free from a central pole. This makes it particularly useful over sofas, dining sets and larger lounge areas.

Do NUMA parasols come with a base?

Selected NUMA parasols are supplied with coordinating bases. Check the individual product listing for the exact specification.

What colour parasol should I choose?

Beige gives a warmer, softer look, while grey creates a cooler contemporary finish. Choose around the colours and materials already used in your outdoor space.

Can I use a parasol with an outdoor dining set?

Yes. Check the canopy coverage, support position and full dining-set dimensions to make sure the shaded area works comfortably around the table and chairs.

Are cantilever parasols good for outdoor sofas?

Yes. The supporting mast sits to the side, helping keep the main seating area open.

What size garden parasol do I need?

Choose according to the furniture and area you want to shade. Compare the canopy dimensions with the complete seating or dining arrangement underneath it.