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Sun protection is particularly important on a south-facing balcony in summer. But which type of parasol should you choose? Because all options offer different features and thus also advantages and disadvantages.

In a nutshell

  • customizable models are ideal
  • if necessary, the consent of the landlord must be obtained
  • Costs vary greatly
  • Safety against wind must be given
  • stable footing and support are required

Parasol Types

The simple classic among the shade providers are the types of parasols. Here too, however, there are significant differences between the various variants. The advantages of the parasol species include these features:

  • low acquisition costs
  • big variety
  • well customizable
  • no permanent installation necessary
  • can be switched

However, they are also quite vulnerable in strong winds and can literally be blown off the balcony. This in turn represents a danger. In addition, the screen is difficult to clean.

One of the most important characteristics, apart from the size of the parasol, is its shape. Models are available in the following cuts:

  • semicircular
  • around
  • oval
  • square

Square and round parasol styles are well known. Half-round designs, on the other hand, are relatively rare. The advantage of this shape is that the screen and stand can be placed directly on the balcony door. So they form a directly adjoining canopy and do not have to be placed in the middle of the path.

Another important point when choosing is the type of stand. This must be heavy and stable so that it can support the weight of the pole and the umbrella and be stable even when subjected to heavy loads from strong winds. The stands are usually made of plastic or metal. They can also be filled. Sand or water, for example, are suitable for this.

Tip: There are types of parasols that can be planted. These create a particularly decorative look.

Special umbrellas

The classic variant of this sun protection is the so-called center mast screens. This means that the stand is centrally located in the middle and thus provides great stability.

The opposite of this is a so-called traffic light umbrella. The stand is on the side and the umbrella is hung on it. This variant is therefore also referred to as a free-arm umbrella or boom umbrella. Due to the different weight distribution, the stand has to be very heavy to remain stable. Although the look of this variant is extremely appealing, they are the wrong choice on very windy balconies. They have the advantage that the supporting bar is on the side and therefore not in the way. That means a table and chairs can easily be placed underneath. For this reason, such models are sometimes also called market or gastronomy parasols.

traffic light umbrella

market umbrellas and Gastronomy umbrellas can, however, also be center mast umbrellas. Matching tables with a recess in the middle make it possible to place the stand under the table and thus also take up as little space as possible.

Gastronomy umbrellas

Behind large parasols hides what the name already suggests: large parasols. These are ideal for very wide and long balconies. However, they are also more expensive, heavier and more susceptible to wind due to the larger surface area.

large parasols

Alternative balcony sun protection

Types of parasols and other shading measures for the balcony are often essential in summer. Because the sun doesn't just heat up the outside area. If it hits a window or balcony door, it also causes uncomfortably high temperatures inside the apartment.

awning

Tip: Reflective foil on the windows can also help to keep the temperature in the house or apartment even. It also offers privacy during the day and keeps the heat inside in winter.

awnings

Awnings offer good protection against the sun and are available in different variants and numerous colours. The different versions include:

  • half awnings
  • Cassette awnings
  • roller awnings
  • full awnings

half awnings are suitable if the balcony already has a roof. They are attached to the front and thus provide shade. One of the advantages of this is that the weight is relatively low. In addition to fixed-mount versions, there are also clamp-on awnings.

at Cassette awnings it is a variant of the roll-up awning. The awning is rolled up in a box so that it is protected and its lifespan can be increased. As a rule, they are a little more expensive to buy and require permanent installation. They are therefore not allowed everywhere.

Cassette awnings

roller awnings As the name suggests, they can be rolled up or pulled together. This can be done manually or controlled automatically. The advantage of this, in turn, is that they move together when necessary. This allows them to be protected from wind, rain and snow, for example.

roller awning as a parasol; Source: Schmitz-Werke Online, Markilux planet, edited by Plantopedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

full awnings are just as suitable for the terrace as for balconies without a roof. Models that can also be pulled together or rolled up are particularly practical. However, fixed mounting is usually a requirement, so they are not always an option in rental properties. In addition, they are comparatively expensive to buy.

sun sail

This is a simple layer of solid fabric. It is stretched from the wall to the balcony railing. It may be necessary to drill holes for this. The attachment is therefore not permitted in every case or at least requires a permit.

However, sun sails bring a large number of advantages. Below:

  • also available to pull together
  • large selection
  • lightweight
  • different shapes and sizes
  • different mounting options
Source: Sirius Facilities GmbH, roof terrace in Sirius Business Park Stuttgart-Airport, edited by Plantopedia, CC BY-SA 3.0

A disadvantage of fixed sails is that they cannot be contracted or furled. This can become a problem in wind and rain. In addition, this shortens the service life.

patio covers

Another way to add sun protection is to have a permanent canopy installed. As a rule, the frame is very stable and can be installed by qualified personnel. The actual roof can be either fixed or flexible.

The advantages are that:

  • automatic opening and closing may be possible
  • this variant has a long service life
  • numerous variants can be found

However, comparatively high prices and the necessary professional assembly are potential disadvantages.

Caution: wind

A potential problem with a sunshade on the balcony is that strong winds can, for example, lever a sunshade and blow it down. The resulting hazards are property damage at best, but can also result in personal injury.

Therefore, always make sure to retract and secure the shade provider in bad weather.

frequently asked Questions

Do I need permission from the landlord?

If you only put up a parasol, this is not necessary. If, on the other hand, it is a fixed installation that requires drilling, you should first obtain written approval from the administration or the landlord. This will avoid later conflicts and legal difficulties.

Can the sun protection also serve as a privacy screen?

Of course its possible. Undisturbed sunbathing is hardly possible, especially with balconies built very close together or in the attic without a roof. A side-mounted privacy screen or sun protection can therefore be useful. These can usually be easily clamped and therefore do not require fixed assembly.

Does the sunshade need to be cleaned?

UV radiation, dust, exhaust fumes, insects and pollen take their toll on the material over time. Textile and removable materials can often be cleaned in the washing machine.

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Category:

Garden design