An annual maintenance programme is recommended whereby an inspection is carried out at the beginning and end of each season, with interim inspection carried out throughout the season. Issues such as tying the umbrellas properly, dealing with small tears and holes as they occur and generally ensuring that the cleaning process is carried out on the basis of little and often. Additionally any major repair work can be dealt with in a timely manner therefore reducing the task to a manageable one in terms of cost and time.

All umbrellas when not in use should be stored in the vertical position. The membranes should be dry and folds should follow the natural creasing of the umbrellas. The elasticated belts, supplied with the umbrellas should be used to restrain the membrane. The umbrellas should not be stored horizontally, the membranes should not be wet or damp when folded and any residual grime should be removed. The annual maintenance programme could cover this.