Parasol FAQs

Q: Can I install a SHADEmakers parasol myself?

The average do-it-yourself home handyman can easily install a residential shademaker in any of the three usual situations: concrete patio, wooden deck or in-ground. Full instructions are provided with each parasol and more information can be found on in our installation, operations & care section. For commercial installations of the larger sizes, we recommend having the installation done by a professional builder or contractor.

Q: Where can I buy a SHADEmakers parasol?

Original SHADEmakers parasols are exported to many countries around the world. Your regional distributor will be happy to provide dealer details for your area. Please contact us to locate your distributor or a dealer near you. If we do not have a distributor in your area, you may order your SHADEmakers parasol direct from us. Please contact us.

Q: How much wind can a SHADEmakers parasol take?

Original SHADEmakers parasols are made from the finest, highest grade materials and are truly built to last and to stand up to the elements. Wind resistance depends on the individual product and is a guideline only. As with all parasols common sense prevails. Please go to products to find more information about wind resistance for each SHADEmakers series.

Q: Will the canopy fabric fade?

How durable is it? What colours are available? SHADEmakers canopies are custom sewn and individually fit using only the highest grade of fabrics available. Our fabrics are selected for their durablility, shape retention, colourfastness, durability and beauty. For more information please visit our fabrics page.

SHADEmakers parasols are designed to be a long term investment in shade. After the five year mark, if you feel your fabric is beginning to fade, we offer a full selection of replacement canopies at very reasonable prices. You will find that it is easy remove your canopy and replace it with a new one. We see no reason why you will need to replace the parasol structure, but depending on the climate you live in, you may need to replace your canopy every 5-10 years.

Q: What does marine grade anodised aluminium mean?

Anodising is the premium finish for aluminium products, offering a unique blend of durability, protection and appearance features. Proven in the harsh New Zealand environment for many years, anodising's superior performance characteristics relative to other finishes, are well established in commercial and residential construction as well as marine and general engineering applications. Benefits:

1. Durability Because anodising is an integral bond to the underlying aluminium extrusion or sheet product, it is will not peel or chip, and its physical and chemical structure makes it very resistant to abrasion and corrosion;
2. Colourfastness The colour compounds used for the aluminium of many of the original SHADEmakers parasols make colour anodising very stable and will not materially fade or chalk even under New Zealand's harsh UV conditions;
3. Low Maintenance 6 monthly washes with mild detergents (definitely no abrasives, acid or alkaline cleaners) and a nylon bristle brush are all that is typically required in the most coastal or commercial environments. Visit our fabrics & finishes section for more detailed information on anodised aluminium.

Q: Can I remove my SHADEmaker for storage?

All residential SHADEmakers parasols can easily be removed for storage or, indeed, for moving between locations (eg main residence and holiday home). Specific requirements are covered in installation, operation and care.

Q: How long is the warranty, and what does it cover?

Please go to the warranty page for specific details

Q: What advantages does a baseplate offer?

If you want to remove your Sola, Liberty or Luna for storage or use it in more than one location (e.g. different locations on your patio or at your cottage or holiday home), a base plate allows you to remove the spigot too, meaning you don't have a protruding spigot. This is especially important for safety reasons, especially if you have young children. See the installation pages for more details.