How To Restring A Patio Umbrella? Broken Patio Umbrella Cord? Here’s How to Easily Replace It

Are you ready to soak up the sun on your patio, but your umbrella’s string is broken? Don’t let a minor inconvenience ruin your outdoor relaxation.

Restringing your patio umbrella may seem scary, but with the right tools and patience, you can quickly get your umbrella back in action.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of restringing your patio umbrella so that you can enjoy your outdoor space easily.

How to Restring a Patio Umbrella?

Restringing a patio umbrella can seem daunting, but with the right tools and patience, you can have your umbrella looking and working like new again.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to restring a patio umbrella:

Step 1: Remove the Old String

The first step in restringing a patio umbrella is to remove the old string.

To do this, carefully remove the umbrella fabric from the frame and lay it flat on a clean surface. Locate the old string and gently pull it out of the umbrella frame, careful not to damage any other components.

Step 2: Measure the New String

Once the old string has been removed, it’s time to measure the new string. To do this, measure the length of the old string and add an extra six inches. This extra length will give you enough slack to tie knots and ensure a secure fit.

Step 3: Attach the New String to the Umbrella

To attach the new string to the umbrella, thread it through the top of the umbrella frame and secure it with a knot.

Start by threading one end of the string through the top of the frame. Tie a knot at the end to prevent it from slipping through.

Then, thread the other end of the string through the frame and pull it tight, ensuring the string is straight and centered.

Step 4: String the Umbrella Ribs

With the new string attached to the umbrella frame, it’s time to string the ribs.

Start at the top of the umbrella and work your way down. Thread the string through each rib and secure it with a knot.

Keep the string taut and centered as you work down the umbrella.

Step 5: Test the Umbrella

Once you have strung all the ribs, it’s time to test the umbrella to make sure everything is secure and functioning properly. Open and close the umbrella several times, ensuring the string is not tangled or twisted.

Step 6: Reattach the Fabric

Now that the umbrella is strung, it’s time to reattach the fabric.

Carefully stretch the fabric back over the umbrella frame and align the grommets with the ribs. Secure the fabric to the frame with screws or clips, ensuring it is centered and taut.

Image by lifeforstock on Freepik

Tips for Restringing a Patio Umbrella

Here’s a list of extra tips for restringing a patio umbrella:

• Use a sturdy, high-quality string to ensure a long-lasting repair.
• Take your time and be patient. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes and frustration.
• Make sure to have all the necessary tools before you begin. This includes a screwdriver, pliers, scissors, and a new string.
• Before you start, take a photo or diagram of how the old string was threaded through the umbrella. This can be a helpful reference if you get confused during the restringing process.
• If the string keeps slipping out of the umbrella frame, try wrapping it tightly around the frame a few times before tying a knot. This can help keep the string in place.
• When stringing the umbrella ribs, thread the string through the hole in each rib before tying a knot. This will help keep the string from slipping out of place.
• If you encounter any knots or tangles in the old string as you’re removing it, take your time and gently untangle them. Rushing this step can lead to damage to other parts of the umbrella.
• Use a lubricant, such as silicone spray, to help the string slide more easily through the umbrella frame and ribs.
• If you’re having trouble keeping the string taut as you work, try using clamps or clothespins to secure the string to the umbrella frame.
• If the old string is damaged or frayed, take a moment to inspect the umbrella frame and ribs for any signs of wear or damage. Repair or replace any damaged components before restringing the umbrella to ensure a proper fit and prevent future damage to the new string.
• If you’re working with a large or heavy umbrella, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member to assist you. They can help hold the umbrella steady while you work, making the process easier and safer.
• After restringing the umbrella, store it in a dry, protected area to prevent sun, wind, and rain damage. A storage cover can help protect the umbrella from the elements and prolong its life.
• Regularly check the string and make necessary repairs to ensure the umbrella stays in good condition.

Finally, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure about the restringing process. A professional can provide guidance, advice, and expertise to help you get your umbrella back in working order.

The cost of hiring a professional to restring a patio umbrella can vary depending on several factors. Those factors include the umbrella’s size, the repair’s complexity, and the local market rates in your area.

Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 for professional restringing services.

However, it’s worth noting that hiring a professional may be higher than the cost of doing it yourself, but it can save you time, effort, and potentially costly mistakes.

Additionally, a professional may be able to identify other issues with your umbrella that you may not have noticed, potentially saving you from more expensive repairs down the line.

If you’re considering hiring a professional to rest your patio umbrella, getting multiple quotes from different providers to compare prices and services is a good idea.

You can also ask for referrals from friends, or family members, read online reviews, or check with local hardware stores or home improvement centers for recommendations.

Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve successfully restringed your patio umbrella.

Remember, regular maintenance is key to prolonging the life of your patio umbrella. So, keep a close eye on the string and replace it as needed.

With these simple steps, you can keep your outdoor space functional and beautiful all season long. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your newly restrung patio umbrella!

If your patio umbrella malfunctions, finding yourself without shade can be frustrating. Some issues with outdoor umbrellas can be repaired with basic tools and knowledge. For more information, refer to our other article.