The Laurel

Marine-grade fabrics, technically referred to as solution-dyed acrylics, are manufactured by adding color to the fibers before they are spun into yarn and woven into fabric. This process allows color to become an integral part of the fiber rather than a surface treatment.

As a result, marine-grade fabrics are engineered to perform in demanding outdoor and coastal environments. They offer excellent resistance to prolonged UV exposure, moisture, mildew, salt air, and airborne contaminants. When used on outdoor shade products, these fabrics provide superior color retention, durability, and long-term performance compared to standard outdoor fabrics.

Frankford Umbrellas specifies marine-grade fabrics to help ensure its umbrellas maintain their appearance, structural integrity, and performance over time—particularly in high-sun, high-humidity, and coastal applications common in hospitality and commercial settings.
 

Commercial-grade umbrellas are built to withstand frequent use and more demanding environmental conditions than residential models. Key differences typically include heavier-duty frame construction/center pole/mast, reinforced components, upgraded hardware, and high-performance fabrics designed for longevity.

Ours are engineered for use in hospitality, foodservice, resort, and public environments where durability, stability, and consistent performance are essential.
 

An in-table base is designed to be used in combination with a table, where the table contributes to the overall stability of the umbrella. They often range anywhere from 50-80 lbs. and usually do not exceed 12” in height. 

Several of the base options in our catalog offer an 8” stem for use underneath a table OR an 18” stem for free-standing use. 

A freestanding base supports the umbrella independently and must provide sufficient weight to safely secure the umbrella without assistance from furniture.

Choosing the right base depends on several factors, including umbrella size, frame type, canopy style, wind exposure, and whether the umbrella will be installed through a table or used as a standalone unit. Consulting product specifications and base recommendations is essential to ensure proper performance. 

For a complete guide to choosing an appropriate base, refer to the umbrella base guides published in our latest catalog.
 

Frankford’s standard lower pole measures 37", which is suitable for most standard table and freestanding applications. We also offer a bar-height lower pole measuring 47", which increases the overall height of the umbrella and provides approximately 10" of additional clearance when the canopy is open.

Bar-height poles are most commonly used when an umbrella is installed through the center of a bar-height or pub-height table. In some cases, customers also choose a bar-height pole for freestanding installations simply to achieve a higher canopy position based on personal preference or site conditions.
 

Frankford offers design-assist support through the Shade Designer, an interactive 3D visualization tool created to help designers and specifiers develop and refine custom umbrella configurations. The platform allows users to explore a wide range of canopy styles, fabric colors and patterns, trim options, and binding details in real time. Upon completing your design, you can download a spec sheet to share with your client.
 
The Shade Designer supports early-stage design development.  Final specifications and project documentation are coordinated through authorized Frankford Umbrella dealers as part of the quoting and ordering process.

The primary difference between market and patio-style umbrellas lies in their canopy shape and overall aesthetic, rather than performance. 

A patio-style umbrella features a softer, rounded canopy profile and typically includes a valance. This design offers a classic, traditional appearance and is commonly specified for hospitality environments such as restaurants, resorts, and pool decks, where a timeless look is desired. Very popular in the U.S. northern beach towns. 

A market-style umbrella has a more structured, angular canopy shape and is usually designed without a valance. This cleaner, more rigid silhouette is popular among clients seeking a modern or contemporary aesthetic and is often specified for design-forward commercial spaces as well as residential applications.

At Frankford Umbrellas, both market and patio styles are available across select product lines, allowing designers and purchasers to choose the look that best complements their space while maintaining commercial-grade construction and performance.

A general rule of thumb is to choose an umbrella canopy that extends at least 24 inches beyond the edge of the table on all sides. This provides adequate shade coverage for seated guests while keeping the umbrella proportionate to the table.

For example:
A 48"–54" round table typically pairs well with a 7.5'–9' umbrella
A 60" round or rectangular table generally requires an 11' umbrella
Larger tables or multiple seating arrangements may require 13' or larger canopies

When selecting an umbrella, it’s also important to consider:
The number of chairs and how far they extend from the table
Whether the umbrella will be used in a commercial or high-traffic environment
Wind exposure and base requirements
Clearance needed for opening, closing, and tilting the umbrella

At Frankford Umbrellas, umbrella sizing recommendations vary by model and application. Consulting product specifications and base guidelines helps ensure proper shade coverage, stability, and long-term performance.