Choosing the canopy colour for an outdoor sun umbrella can be surprisingly challenging. For some people, colour preference is instinctive, and will only change if the location could impact the colour choice. For example, imagine a white canopy near bird-populated, pollen-producing trees. But for others, deciding on the best colour for a quality protective sun umbrella that will last for many years can be confusing. While there is no ‘wrong’ answer, this article will explore what to consider when choosing between light and dark colours for your new outdoor sun umbrella.
Milan umbrellas, Navy Blue canopies
One question the Shade7 team is often asked, is “are dark colours hotter than light colours?”. The answer is both yes and no. Dark colours do hold more heat, but can offer a cooler shadow. Umbrella canopies are usually over 2m above the ground and the dark canopy holds the heat away from those seated beneath. Seated people will rarely feel warmth from the canopy above, although near the canopy the warmth is apparent. Dark colours also cast a much denser shadow than light colours. On baking hot summer days, the relief in the shade of a dark-coloured umbrella is significant, and anywhere outside of the shade can be unbearable.
Venice Classic 2.6 Off White
Light colours have a lovely resort kind of ambience, and whites and creams are especially popular in glamourous poolside locations. Light is reflected by light colours, and accordingly, some of the sun’s heat is deflected. Light colours are much less opaque than dark colours and the shadow is accordingly not as dense, and therefore sometimes not as cool. In some tropical climates, for example, it can feel hotter beneath a very pale canopy than beneath a dark canopy. The lower opacity of pale colours lets more light through the fabric, which could be a strain on light-sensitive eyes, particularly if the outdoor area has white tile or concrete where the light might bounce off the pale ground. However, many outdoor relaxers wear sunglasses or have no light-sensitivity, and just as when seated beneath a dark canopy, the open space keeps air moving.
The UV protection variation between light and dark colours in Shade7’s premium European acrylic canvas umbrella canopies is negligible. Across all colours, Shade7’s acrylic canvas is rated UPF 80, the highest possible rating according to European standards.
Riviera 3.5 matte black with Charcoal canopy
So, what umbrella canopy colour do most people choose? Light or dark?
Charcoal is best-selling colour at Shade7. The canvas is made of light and dark threads woven together which work incredibly well to match almost any setting. Dark enough to sit well against black houses and features, it has a pale taupe or silvery hue in some lights and looks beautiful against white walls as well as natural timber and foliage. The soft texture helps it to disappear against the view. It is also the most forgiving colour for dust and dirt, the woven texture making dust and dirt virtually invisible, and therefore requiring the least maintenance. Charcoal casts a restful dense shadow. Black, Navy, and other dark colours also cast a dense shade, but can accentuate pale dust and bird droppings, so might need a little more attention over the summer season.
The second most popular colour at Shade7 is Off White. The appeal of this colour is the resort-like ambience, with an undeniably luxurious feel when seated beneath an Off White umbrella. Off White is also ideal for keeping predominantly white or very pale outdoor spaces within that palette, creating a haven of pale neutrals, for example, over very pale furniture or against pale tiles and walls. To protect the canopy from the appearance of dirt, using a cover bag when not in use is especially helpful for pale umbrellas, and paler colours may also require a little extra attention to keep them clean.
Charcoal and Off White Riviera umbrellas
With solution dyed canvas, Shade7’s premium European canvas has a no-fade rating of 7-8 out of 8, ensuring many years enjoyment of colour, whether dark or light. Closing umbrellas when they are not in use and covering them with a cover bag goes a long way towards keeping umbrellas looking like new, greatly reducing the need to clean the canopy as well as protecting the umbrella from damaging weather and the build-up of organic matter.
Shade7’s range of strong, beautiful market and cantilever umbrellas are on display at their spacious showroom at 1096 Great South Road, Mt Wellington, Auckland 1060, or contact the Shade7 friendly and knowledgeable team. Shade7 will be delighted to help you to decide what colour canopy will best suit your unique outdoor space.
