Outdoor umbrellas can be extremely valuable when the harsh light of the summer sun becomes too much for an outdoor gathering, picnic, or lunch. Unfortunately, wind can wreak havoc on an outdoor umbrella, causing it to tip over. With a little ingenuity, you can add weight to that outdoor umbrella base, allowing you to enjoy your afternoon event without worrying about umbrella malfunctions, even with mild to moderate winds.
Cinder Block Method
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Step 1
Arrange your umbrella base in the position you would like it to be. Flat, level ground works best.
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Step 2
Paint a cinder block to match the color of your umbrella base. If you are artistic, paint different patterns on the cinder block and umbrella base for extra flair. You can buy cinder blocks at most home and garden stores.
Step 3
Slide the cinder block over the umbrella base so that the tube that holds the umbrella protrudes through one of the holes in the cinder block. You can use a cinder block with one or two holes in it.
Step 4
Adjust the cinder block so that it rests solidly on the umbrella base. Give the umbrella base a shake to ensure that the cinder block doesn't shift too much.
Step 5
Insert the umbrella into the base and secure it.
Sandbag Method
Step 1
Place your umbrella base on a flat, level surface and situate it where you would like it to be.
Step 2
Fill two sandbags, each about one half the size of your umbrella base, with sand. Sandbags can be purchased at most hardware or home and garden stores. Choose sandbags that match the color of your umbrella base as closely as possible. You can paint the sandbags if necessary.
Step 3
Arrange the sandbags on top of the umbrella base, one to each side of the tube that the umbrella slides into.
Step 4
Use a thin rope or nylon strap to secure the sandbags to the base, and to each other. Choose rope or nylon straps that match the color of your umbrella base and of the sandbags.
Step 5
Insert the umbrella into the base and secure it.