What size and type flagpoles do I need?

Residential Customers
Before we can answer your question we will need more information. The most popular poles for homeowners are 6’ poles and adjustable holders which are mounted on the outside wall of the home. If you want a pole in the ground 20’ and 25’ poles are the most popular heights, although we do carry poles both shorter and larger. We must take into consideration these other factors:

• How large is your home?
• How far away will the flagpole be from the home?
• Do you want the pole to be the same size as the house or shorter or taller?

Commercial Customers
We carry a full line of flagpoles for commercial use, internal halyards to give you more security or external halyards is security is not an issue. We have sizes from 10’ to 80’ in aluminum and steel poles along with the installation of these poles. While the most popular sizes range from 25’ to 40’ we will work with you to give you the perfect size for your use and needs. Please call us to discuss your needs.

Types of Flagpoles:
External halyard flagpoles are used in areas where you do not need to worry about security for your flags. This could be on a roof of a building or if you have other security options for you site.

Internal halyard flagpoles
are used in areas where you want to have more control over who is able to raise and lower your flags. You can use either rope systems (Sentry model poles) or you can have stainless steel winches and cables (Independence model poles). Please call us to discuss your needs.

What size flag do I need?
The size of the flag is determined by the height of the pole on which it will be flown and the flagpole’s geographical location. For a 6’ wall mounted flagpole we would recommend either a 3X5 or 4X6 foot flag depending on location of the flagpole holder.

To determine what size flag you will need for flagpoles, click on this link to view a Wind Speed Chart which provides recommended flag sizes for specific height flagpoles.

What is the difference between a cotton and nylon flag?
Nylon is the most popular flag material. These durable flags will fly in a light breeze, stand up to bright sunlight, and will dry quickly.  One specific brand of nylon is NYL-GLO.

Polyester is heavier than nylon and lasts longer with richer colors. While these flags do not fly well in light breezes, they are ideal for high wind locations.

Cotton is the traditional material for flags and provides deep rich colors for display use. Cotton does not fly well in light breezes and is not as durable as nylon or polyester flags.

How long will my flag last?
There is no exact answer. The U.S. Government generally expects a nylon or cotton bunting flag to last approximately 90 days based on daily usage from sunrise to sunset-but not during periods of INCLEMENT WEATHER. Tests have shown that in some cases a flag flown 24 hours a day will last only one-fourth as long as one flown during daylight hours only.

Regardless of how well it is constructed a flag is, after all, only a piece of cloth and will sooner or later succumb to the elements. However, it has been well documented that reasonably good care can contribute greatly to longer life.

Inspect your flag regularly for signs of wear. In particular, look for “normal wear” fabric or thread breaks, which may occur, in the FLY END. This is the end farthest from the staff. Trimming off and re-hemming torn or frayed ends will extend the life of your flag.

We recommend that you replace it one a year as a matter of respect for the flag. If you flag is kept indoors and kept away from strong light and harsh materials it should last for years.

Can a flag be repaired or cleaned?
Worn or tattered flags should never be flown. National Capital Flag will gladly repair or clean torn or frayed ends for a minimal fee.