How are patio umbrellas different?
Patio umbrellas are the enlarged versions of hand-held umbrellas. Hand-held umbrellas consist of central shafts made of plastic, steel, or wood; several folding spokes; and canopies made of waterproof fabric. The spokes are located on one end of the shafts and the handles on the other. When hand-held umbrellas open, the spokes extend to unfurl the canopies. They provide a portable covered space for shelter from the rain or sun. Patio umbrellas, on the other hand, have the same features only bigger. They usually stand six feet to 12 feet in height. When the canopies are unfurled, patio umbrellas can cover areas as large as 25 square feet. Like their smaller counterparts, they consist of shafts made of plastic, wood or aluminum; folding spokes; and canopies made of waterproof fabric. However, instead of handles, patio umbrellas have flat bases. They are weighted in some models to allow them to stand on their own.
