Shelter from the Storm

We have a fairly large, uncovered and unshaded brick patio/terrace at our house. One day it would be nice to have an arbor like this,

Suzanne Tucker

But until then I think we’ll settle for a market umbrella.

There is an abundance of choices. After seeing some pretty inflated prices at Restoration Hardware and Frontgate, I took a look at what Costco and Target had to offer.

Target carries a couple of different choices from the Smith and Hawken line, which I liked. I also like Pottery Barn’s options.  I’m trying to decide between metal and wood, fiberglass or aluminum, bronze finish or not, sunbrella or a substitute, there is a lot to consider.

I know I want a round one because it will sit in the middle of a teak table set I bought from Ballard Designs a few years ago so here are the ones I’m considering,

This choice does not use Sunbrella fabric and the pole is made of eucalyptus with an oil based stain and it does not tilt,

9′ PB’s Round Market Umbrella, solid, $149

This option does use Sunbrella fabric, has a durable bronze finish and does tilt,
 

9′ PB’s Sunbrella Round Umbrella, $349

Bases are sold separately and cost $89.

I am a fan of Smith + Hawken’s stores and products, these umbrellas are part of the S+W line for Target,

This choice is powder coated, rust and weather resistant, the frame is aluminum, does tilt and the canopy is 100%  olefin, not sure what the size is,

Smith + Hawken Windsor Metal Umbrella, $119

This option looks almost identical to the one above, it is also powder coated, aluminum frame, uses Sunsharp brand fabric, does tilt

9′ Smith + Hawken Allogio Dining Umbrella, $134

The S+W wooden choice is out because the 9′ is $579. Bases are sold separately, the cheapest is $44.

Pottery Barn recommends that I check the diameter if I’m not pairing it with a PB table so I’ll do that but I’m confident it will work.

So all things considered, what is your pick? Does anyone have experience with these specific products or the merits of wood over metal?