A Budget-Friendly DIY For An In-Pool Umbrella Holder

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On a hot, sunny summer day, nothing feels quite as refreshing as diving into your cold pool and floating your cares away. But once you're in the water, escaping the high-noon sun is practically impossible without getting out of the pool and running for cover under the patio. Of course, you could solve this problem by having a professional install an in-pool umbrella stand, but that process can be complicated, quite pricey, and isn't suitable for all pool types. So, if you're trying to keep your backyard pool ideas on-budget, this DIY pool umbrella holder is the solution you've been looking for. Using a bit of PVC pipe and some zip ties you can create an affordable but effective umbrella holder for your above-ground pool.

In addition to being affordable, this DIY is also temporary, so there's no need to commit to an expensive pool upgrade that you might not like come the following season. With how easy the installation process is, you can set up these DIY umbrella holders all around the edge of your pool so that you can easily move your umbrella as the sun changes position. So if you're tired of relying on patio umbrellas to keep you cool on summer's hottest days, then it's time to build this pool umbrella holder.

To follow the tutorial presented by YouTube user Life Less Ordinary, you will need PVC pipe, zip ties, an old pool noodle, and optionally some spray paint for this project. This is a great opportunity to repurpose extra PVC pipes around your home if you have them. If not, it's a relatively cheap material to buy new.

Start by cutting your PVC pipe to size. You will want the pipe to stand just a few inches short of the top of your pool. Also double check that your umbrella can slide inside the pipe with ease. While you only need one pipe to complete this DIY, you can add as many as you like around the edge of your pool for even more sun protection. Next you may choose to spray paint the pipe to match the color of your pool. This step is optional but does help the final product look more professional.

While the paint is drying, cut a small ring off of your pool noodle, then cut that ring in half. You will be left with two C-shaped pieces. Place one of the C-shaped pool noodle pieces against one of the vertical uprights on your pool. This acts as a cushion between the pool and your PVC umbrella holder and will make it easier to slide your umbrella in and out. You can also use a small piece of rubber instead. Next, place and hold your pipe over top of the pool noodle cushion ensuring the pipe and your vertical upright are aligned. Then secure the pipe place with two or three zip ties. Now all that's left to do is slide your umbrella in place and enjoy the shade while you soak in the water. For extra coverage and a more luxe look, try using a double-sided patio umbrella with a large canopy.