How to Add Weight to Patio Umbrella (Cheap, Easy & Sturdy)

Do you have an umbrella stand that you simply want to make heavier? You don’t have to buy an entire new stand – instead, here’s how to add weight to your umbrella base (and save money!)

How to Add Weight to Umbrella Base - Easy, Cheap & Sturdy

Having a weighted umbrella base is a key factor to enjoying your shade canopy. You don’t have to worry about it tipping over and hurting someone or causing damage.

However, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. In fact, this simple low-cost solution allows you to use your current umbrella stand and just make it sturdier.

On top of that, these weight bags are easy to assemble, portable and surprisingly durable for the price. In fact, you can use them year-round.

How to Add Sand to an Umbrella Base:

How to Fill Umbrella Weight with Sand

These umbrella base weights are super easy to set up and use. Basically, you just fill them with sand that you can get for cheap at your local home improvement store.

Alternatively, you can use pebbles or gravel instead of sand, but sand is heavier.

Another convenient advantage of the Rhino BaseWeight is that you can empty the sand if you ever move. Plus, it doesn’t freeze like water.

Base Weight Guide:

How to Set-up an Umbrella Base Weight on Umbrella Stands

So, how much sand do you actually need to hold down your umbrella? We’ve included a chart below that you can use as a basic guideline for standard patio umbrellas.

However, keep in mind that if you live in a windy location, you may want to increase the poundage. Also, if you already have a lightweight umbrella stand (usually 25-35 lbs), you can add that amount to the sand sack that you use on top of it.

UmbrellaSource.com recommends multiplying the width of your umbrella by 10 to get the proper weight for the umbrella base.

9-Foot Canopy
90+ lbs
10-Foot Canopy
100+ lbs
11-Foot Canopy
110+ lbs
12-Foot Canopy
120+ lbs

Specs for the Rhino Umbrella Base Weight:

  • Dimensions: 17.7″ Diameter x 7.2″ Tall
  • Shape: Round
  • Material: Weatherproof 900D PolyesterRhino Round Umbrella Base Weight - Holds Up to 90 Lbs of Sand
  • Color: Black
  • Fill with Sand or Pebbles (not water)
  • Weight with Sand: 90 lbs
  • Fits All Pole Sizes
  • Includes Waterproof Rain Cover
  • Kit Comes with Free Plastic Scoop
  • Minimal Assembly Required (fill base)
  • Brand: Rhino BaseMate
  • Customer Reviews: 4.6 Out of 5 Stars
  • For Sale: Where to Buy the Umbrella Weight

How to Make Cantilever Umbrella Stands Heavier:

Cantilever Umbrella Base Weight - Up to 110 lbs for Offset Patio Umbrellas

Alternatively, you can get a square umbrella base weight. This option is ideal for square-shaped umbrella stands (like cantilever style), but you can also fill it with more weight (up to 110 lbs).

The square-shaped Gravipod essentially has the same design and slightly larger dimensions than the round version (18″ square x 6″ tall). It can also fit umbrella poles up to 3.0″ in diameter (or 3.5″ using less sand).

How Heavy Should My Umbrella Stand Be? Cantilever patio umbrellas typically require a minimum of 100+ lbs at the base.

Last Updated April 27, 2024

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