UMBRELLAS

The dictionary defines umbrellas as follows:

An apparatus to protect one from any weather hazards; an object that is used as a cover or shelter; a classification that includes varied groups or elements.

Umbrellas are used by individuals to protect them from the weather such as rain, snow, sleet, wind or the rays of the sun.

The construction of an umbrella consists of the following components, handle, shaft or rod, ribs and canopy. Each of these components can be made of different materials such as wood, fiberglas, metal, plastic and nylon. However, the handle of the umbrella must be made of a non conductive material such as wood, fiberglas or plastic.

Lighting proof umbrellas are constructed from the following materials:

HANDLE: wood, plastic or fiberglas, SHAFT: wood, plastic or fiberglas, RIBS: fiberglas or wood

The functional aspect of an umbrella can be manual open, automatic open or both automatic open and automatic close.

In addition, umbrellas are available in a number of different styles, golf, folding, mini, stick, vented, windproof, fashion, beach and patio.

The size of an umbrella is identified by the term "Arc." When an umbrella is open, if you measure the top (canopy) from one side over the top to the other side this is the Arc. Umbrellas with a 48" Arc will cover a person and a half or two people close together. Umbrellas with an Arc size smaller than 48" are for a single person. Golf umbrellas have an Arc size of 60" or larger and will cover two and a half people.

The canopy of the umbrella, which is made of nylon, canvas or plastic, consist of a number of panels. Standard umbrellas have eight panels, mini umbrellas have six, some golf umbrellas have sixteen. Also, the material is available in solid, alternating colors and printed patterns.

The canopy of the umbrella is the main part and can be made of different materials. For monsoon conditions, synthetic waterproof material or plastic is best. Canvas or UV coated material is best for protection from the rays of the sun. Nylon is the material for standard umbrellas.

Although material, size, and fabric are important, individuals are also particular about the color or pattern of the canopy. Today, a wide variety of colors, patterns and decorations are available.