How to Choose a Residential Flagpole

Apr 23rd, 2015

Deciding on a flagpole is not as simple as choosing the first one you see! There are choices that you will need to make to ensure that you will be happy with the finished product and proud of the patriotic look it adds to your home. In this blog post, we have outlined some of the options that you should consider.

 

Size/Height

To determine the height of the flagpole that you will need, you should first decide on where you would like it located. Ideally, the pole should be visible from all angles without interference from shrubbery, trees or other obstacles and looks neither too large nor too small for your home. The typical height for residential areas is 20 feet. If your home is two to three stories tall, you may want to consider a 25-foot flagpole.

 

 Flagpole Material and Construction

The choices of material used to construct your flagpole include aluminum and fiberglass. Aluminum is strong, lightweight, and does not require much maintenance to keep it looking new. Fiberglass has a glossy gel coat that will withstand most scratches.

Once you made a decision on the material used to construct your flagpole, you will need to choose a style. Options include one piece, sectional, and telescoping. One-piece flagpoles tend to be stronger than some sectional or telescoping poles, and may be more suitable for high wind zone areas. Sectional flagpoles are constructed in sections that fit together, but have a seamless look.

Telescoping poles feature sections that are held in place by an interlocking sleeve system. Locking hooks hold each section securely in place. Pushing the lock button on a section allows that section to collapse into the one below it. This style is ideal for those who summer and winter in different locations. It is easy to collapse and transport.

 

Halyard Design

Once you have chosen the material and construction of your flagpole, you will need to choose whether you would like an internal or an external halyard. The halyard is the rope that is used to lower, raise, and hold the flag in position on the pole. External halyard means the rope is located on the outside of the pole. Internal halyard flagpoles have a neat, finished appearance because the halyard is hidden inside the pole. It is equipped with a door that allows access to the halyard to raise and lower the flag. For security, some internal halyard flagpoles have a lock on the access door to help prevent vandalism and theft.

 

 Options

Most flagpole options offer a choice of color finishes and ornaments. Colors will depend on the type of construction material that you choose. Generally, options include satin aluminum; white, dark bronze, black, and dark green powder paint; and clear, varying shades of bronze from light to dark and black anodized.

Flagpoles generally come with a gold ball ornament, called a finial, that sits at the top of the pole. On most poles, you have the option of choosing an Eagle, for an additional charge, in place of the ball ornament.

 

Flagpoles Etc. 

With over 25 years experience in the flagpole industry, we have the expertise to assist you with making the right choice for your flagpole, flag and accessory purchase. Our products are all American made and built to last.