We have no shade on the patio, so summertime BBQs usually have to start on the late side. I'm really excited for this season, with this umbrella. A couple of things to note. The pole is made of wood, which makes me a little bit nervous of a strong wind breaking it at the seam (two metal collars screw together to form the pole). At the same time, this umbrella costs a lot less than a new glass table, so I'd rather the umbrella give, than to have to pick up pieces of the table. I've thought about making a collar for the whole seam out of painted PVC pipe, but I haven't looked into too hard yet. Being two parts will definitely make it easier to store away for winter. I'm getting ready to make a stand for umbrella using a large terracotta pot, a length of PVC pipe, and some quikrete. Toss on some rocks or colored pebbles on top for a finished look. Most of the stands I've found are a bit too light, so this is an easier (cheaper) and heavier solution. The pulley system to raise and lower the umbrella is pretty slick, I'm happy about that. It means the umbrella will be more likely to be put down at night. For the price of these umbrellas, I'm pretty happy. I'm thinking of buying a couple more for larger backyard parties.
