Choosing the right patio umbrella is more important than most people think. The wrong choice means a flimsy umbrella that blows over on a breezy summer afternoon, fades after one season, or doesn't cover the area you actually need shaded. At Sno-Haus, we carry one of the most extensive umbrella selections on Long Island — from entry-level Treasure Garden models to high-end Frankford, Jardinico and Shademaker cantilevers. Here's how to figure out which type is right for you.
Traditional Center-Pole Umbrellas
The classic design — a pole through the center of your table, opening into a canopy above. Traditional umbrellas are the most affordable option and work well for dining tables with an umbrella hole. They're simple to operate, widely available, and come in a range of sizes from 7.5 feet to 11 feet in diameter. The limitation: because the pole goes through the center of the table, you can't use them over solid tables or furniture without an umbrella hole. They also don't work well for lounge chairs or sofas where you want shade without a pole in the way. At Sno-Haus, we carry a wide range of traditional umbrellas from Sunbrella, Outdura and other Acrylic fabrics to Obravia, Solefin and other solution-died polyester fabrics — all built to resist fading and hold up in Long Island's coastal climate.
Cantilever Umbrellas
Cantilever umbrellas have a side pole and an offset canopy — meaning the shade is supported from the side rather than the center. This design is revolutionary for outdoor living because it lets you position shade exactly where you need it, without any pole interrupting the space underneath. You can cover a lounge chair setup, a sectional, a dining table, or a pool deck area without any obstruction. Cantilevers also rotate and tilt, so you can track the sun throughout the day. The trade-off is price and footprint — cantilevers cost more and require a heavily-weighted base. But for serious outdoor spaces, they're transformative. At Sno-Haus, we specialize in high-end cantilevers from Shademaker, Jardinico, and Frankford — brands that are engineered for durability and available in hundreds of custom fabric options.
Portable and Market Umbrellas
Portable umbrellas are smaller, lighter, and designed for flexibility — think beach trips, small balconies, or occasional use. They're not built for permanent outdoor setups or Long Island wind conditions, but they serve a purpose for customers who need something simple and moveable. We carry a range of entry-level options for customers who just need basic shade on a budget.
What Size Do You Need?
As a general rule, your umbrella should extend about two feet beyond your furniture on each side to provide real shade coverage. A standard 4-person dining table typically needs a 9-foot umbrella. A larger table or lounge setup might need an 11-foot or a cantilever with a 13-foot canopy. Come into either of our showrooms and we can help you measure and recommend the right size for your specific setup.
Fabric Matters More Than You Think
A beautiful umbrella with cheap fabric will be faded and brittle within two seasons. We strongly recommend Sunbrella or other Recacril fabrics for any umbrella that will live outside on Long Island. These solution-dyed acrylic fabrics resist UV, mildew, and salt air — and they clean up easily with soap and water. Our high-end Frankford and Shademaker umbrellas come standard with premium marine-grade acrylic fabrics and are available in hundreds of colors and patterns through special order.
Visit Sno-Haus in Greenvale or Huntington Station to see our full umbrella collection — from affordable everyday options to the finest cantilevers available. Our team will help you find the perfect shade solution for your space.
FAQ Section
What type of patio umbrella is best for Long Island weather?
Cantilever and high-quality center-pole umbrellas with durable fabrics like Sunbrella perform best in Long Island’s wind and sun conditions.
What size patio umbrella should I buy?
Choose an umbrella that extends at least 2 feet beyond your furniture. Most tables need a 9-foot or 11-foot umbrella.
Are cantilever umbrellas worth it?
Yes, for larger or more flexible outdoor spaces. They provide better coverage without a center pole and can rotate with the sun.
What is the best fabric for patio umbrellas?
Solution-dyed acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella resist fading, mildew, and salt air, making them ideal for Long Island homes.
Do I need a heavy base for my umbrella?
Yes. Especially for cantilever umbrellas, a properly weighted base is essential for safety and stability.
Can I leave my umbrella outside all season?
High-quality umbrellas are designed for outdoor use, but closing and securing them during strong winds will extend their lifespan.
