Choosing the right fabric for your patio umbrella is very important, as your patio umbrella stands with you through thick and thin! Be it rain, storm, or blinding sunlight, your patio umbrella does not fail you. This is why you must make sure you choose the best patio umbrella fabric.
Two of the most popular contenders for patio umbrella material are Terylast and Sunbrella. Let's take a look at each of them so that you can make the best possible choice when it comes to patio umbrella fabrics.
While each have their own strengths and weaknesses, we will be showcasing the major differences in these two fabrics.
Getting Behind Patio Umbrella Fabrics: Terylast vs Sunbrella
Material
Terylast is made up of heavy-duty polyester, which is great for harsh weather conditions. Polyester is one of the top choices for patio umbrellas as it is best suited for inclement weather conditions, such as rain and snow.
These fabrics are soft and rich in colors. If you are looking for an aesthetic addition to your patio, you must consider getting Terylast as it has heavy-duty polyester that comes in sharp colors and is highly durable. Terylast polyester is solution-dyed and can be a great investment.
Fade & UV-Ray Resistant
It is also fade-resistant. The Terylast is made for areas with extreme exposure to the sun. Since it is fade-resistant, if you get sharp-colored fabric, it will stay the same for a long time.
If you like sitting in the sun without the sun rays affecting you, the Terylast should be high on your priority list. It is the perfect companion for people who like the sun but fear facing the consequences of UV rays exposure. The fabric blocks 98% of UV rays and can be a good way to protect yourself from skin cancer.
Most patio umbrellas are susceptible to mold because of water and dirt. The Terylast is resistant to water and mold, which means that you do not have to worry about it.
Longevity
Different companies give different warranties for the Terylast fabric. But among other fabrics, it is one of the most long-lasting fabrics out there.
Material
Sunbrella is famous for its solution-dyed fabric as it is one of the most durable fabrics. In comparison to other fabrics, the Sunbrella solution-dyed acrylic can tolerate the extreme intensity of sunrays for longer periods.
This fabric is also lightweight, making it a great option for your patio umbrella. The fabric makes it last longer, and Tenara sewing thread is used to make it. This is a 100% expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). This material is stronger than the usual PTFE.
This fabric is also great for the environment as there is no wastage of water when making it. Less energy is also consumed when making it. If you are very concerned with the environment, you must opt for Sunbrella as it is reportedly a good option when considering the environment.
The fabric is saturated with pigment, so the colors are bright, and many options are available.
Fade & UV Rays Resistant
The Sunbrella fabric is also fade resistant and protects against UV rays, much like the Terylast. However, Sunbrella has also been a winner of the International Seal of Recommendation for UV fabric/ Umbrellas Awnings by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Other than that, the Sunbrella Fabric is also resistant to all kinds of mold and stains caused by water. This patio umbrella fabric is the best option for all seasons. Be it rain, snow, or sun, the Sunbrella fabric is a good option for all the weather conditions.
You do not have to worry about leaving these umbrellas outside when the weather is not as good, as the umbrellas will not be affected by the harsh weather conditions. Sunbrella is also tested for safety certifications, such as the green guard gold and the OEKO-TEX.
Longevity
The Sunbrella fabric is also a great option if you are looking for a fabric that will last long. Because of its high quality, the Sunbrella Fabric can last for a couple of years and more if you take good care of it.
Now that you understand the differences between the two fabrics, let's learn how to take care of your patio umbrellas to extend their lives.
Terylast or Sunbrella Here's a quick look at the differences
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Material |
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Heavy duty polyester Solution dyed |
Acrylic Solution dyed |
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Fade Resistant Will maintain its color even in extreme sun |
Fade Resistant Will maintain its color even in extreme sun |
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Blocks 98% of Harmful UV Rays Recommended to protect against skin cancer |
Blocks 98% of Harmful UV Rays Recommended to protect against skin cance |
Water and Mold Resistant |
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100% Breathability Resists water and Mold |
100% Breathability Resists water and Mold |
Warranty |
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| 10 Year Limited Warranty* | 5 Year Limited Warranty* |
Ways to Increase Life of Patio Umbrellas
If you want your patio umbrellas to last longer, you must take care of the following things:
Rinse the Shade
If you regularly rinse the shade, you will be able to keep your umbrella clean and tidy, and that will help you make sure that it lasts longer than most. Regular cleaning of the shade removes all the gunk and gives you a clean umbrella.
Brush off the Dust
If you do not want to wash the canopy, you can buy a soft bristle brush and dust off the dust on the canopy. The dust can be harmful to your patio umbrella and also leave stains, which is why regular canopy cleaning is important.
Clean With Soap
If the marks are stubborn, you won't be able to get the stains by merely washing them with water. You can use a mild soap to clean the canopy and scrub the stains gently. If your patio umbrella stays clean, you wouldn't have to bother with getting a replacement soon.
Close It
When the umbrella is not in use, it is best to close it and put it away. This way, you won't be putting your patio umbrella under the sun or in harsh weather conditions, which can cause damage to your patio umbrella.
Best Patio Umbrella Fabrics Come From the Best Patio Umbrellas
No matter what material you choose between Terylast and Sunbrella, you can contact Midtown Umbrellas and get both of them! They provide the highest quality!
