Umbrella Repair Tips
Umbrellas are frequently forgotten items until the times when they are needed most. When in the middle of a downpour, the last thing you want is a broken umbrella. These malfunctions are listed below, along with tips on how to properly repair them to make sure your umbrella is in top shape when you need it most.
Broken Stem
The stem is really the crux of the entire umbrella operation, as it provides almost all of the support. When such a thin item is asked to do so much work, things can go haywire. If your umbrella stem suffers a clean break, use an adhesive to join the two parts back together. You can find the proper adhesive at any local crafts store. Follow the directions listed on the package. Remember that the stem must hold the weight of the entire umbrella, which can be a difficult task in heavy winds or rain, so choose the strongest adhesive possible. Once you fit the broken pieces together, allow them to dry and then apply another coat or two of adhesive around the outside of the break. When dry, this will provide ample support to your umbrella stem.
If your umbrella stem is metal, you might want to provide stability from the outside using wire. If it is made of wood, you can insert a dowel into the stem by drilling a small hole into the middle of each broken stem, then inserting a small piece of metal or wood. Make sure you drill the holes as straight as possible, or else you will end up with another repair to make. This technique will make your umbrella stem is strong as possible, making it a better option for expensive umbrellas. Be sure to repeat the adhesive application process following the implementation of the dowel.
Broken Spokes
When an umbrella's spokes are broken or even weak, they canopy of the umbrella will flip inside-out, especially in heavy wind. The process of fixing a broken spoke is an indirect one, as you actually want to strengthen the umbrella around the broken spoke so its weakness has no consequences. Use thin wire or fishing line to tie the broken spoke back to point on the stem where all of the spokes meet.
Canopy Rip
If you have a canopy made of fabric and it rips, you will have to sew it together with new fabric. Choose a fabric that most resembles the current one, but make sure it is water-resistant. Also choose a thread that is strong and will hold up to water, such as a nylon one.
If your canopy is plastic, you will have to apply an adhesive patch to the ripped area in order to cover it. These patches are often found in sporting goods stores. Remember that these patches are not as strong as the original umbrella canopy material and will not last forever. At the first sign of wear, replace the patch before it is too late.
