null

Flagpole FAQ

What height of flagpole should I buy?

For flagpoles to be placed near a residential or commercial building, we recommend choosing a pole that is a bit higher than the neighboring building. For reference, residential buildings are about 10 feet per story, while commercial buildings average about 12 feet. You will also want to consider the height of the building’s roof. 

How do I measure the height of my flagpole?

The easiest way to measure the height of your flagpole requires a ball of string and a tape measure. First, lower the flag. Then, tie the end of the string to the topmost flag snap. Raise the flag snap to the top of the pole, then mark where the string touches the ground. Next, lower the flag snap and string, untie it, and use your tape measure to measure the length of the string.

For high winds, which flag pole should I buy?

We have provided a wind chart of the United States for your reference below. Our product pages for inground flagpoles include each pole's flagged and unflagged maximum wind speeds. This means that the pole is rated to withstand windspeeds under a specific limit, with different ratings if a flag is attached or not. 

We recommend taking down flags during severely high winds or inclement weather to protect your flag from damage. In this case, the unflagged maximum windspeed is more important when considering what kind of flagpole to get. Please contact us if you have questions about windspeeds or need help choosing the right flagpole for your area. 

Flagpole Wind Chart

Where should I place my flagpole?

Flagpole placement is mainly dependent on personal preference. However, we do offer some suggestions to consider. Most importantly, the flagpole should be located where it is unlikely to sustain damage or interfere with existing infrastructure. This includes avoiding buildings, trees, and electrical wires. 

For inground flagpoles, we recommend calling 811, the national call-before-you-dig service. This will let you know if there are any underground utilities at the site and where they are located. The soil in which the pole will be installed should be firm and drain well, as the foundation may shift if poured into loose soil.

What are the different finishes and styles of flagpoles?

We carry aluminum flagpoles in satin, clear, bronze, and black anodized finishes and fiberglass poles in white. Standard flagpoles typically have a matte satin finish. However, if you live in an area close to the ocean, we recommend choosing an anodized finish to help protect your pole from environmental damage. 

Flagpole styles include external and internal halyard systems, nautical, sectional, and telescoping flagpoles. External and internal halyard flagpoles are a common type of inground flagpole, meaning that part of the pole is secured underground in a concrete foundation. Nautical flagpoles are based on the appearance of a ship’s mast and typically include a tapered aluminum body, yardarm, and gaff. Sectional and telescoping flagpoles are designed to be easily collapsible, making them quicker to assemble and take down during severe weather. However, sectional and telescoping flagpoles are not windrated.

What is the difference between an external and internal halyard?

External halyards keep the rope used for hoisting flags on the outside of the flagpole and run through a pulley system at the top of the pole. Using an external halyard makes hoisting and lowering flags easy. However, the rope may wear out from weather damage over time and need replacement.

Internal halyard systems conceal the rope inside the flagpole, which can be accessed through a locked door. These systems typically use a halyard with a wire center or a stainless steel cable. The advantages of internal halyards are that they provide better security by preventing unauthorized access to the halyard and flag theft. Additionally, an internal halyard may be chosen for aesthetic purposes, as concealing the halyard creates a simple, clean look. However, internal halyard flagpoles are usually more expensive than their external counterparts, as more parts are required for the pole. 

How much does a flagpole cost?

Flagpole cost depends mainly on the style and height of the pole chosen. An economical choice for residential use would be telescoping or sectional flagpoles, with prices ranging from $500 to $850. While these poles are less expensive than other options, they require more maintenance and should be disassembled during severe weather conditions.

Nautical, external, and internal halyard flagpoles range in cost from $750 to $35,000, depending on height and whether the pole is constructed from aluminum or fiberglass. Poles that are taller or made of fiberglass will cost more than a shorter aluminum pole. A standard 30’ external halyard aluminum pole may cost about $1,250 to $3,650.

Do I pay for flagpole shipping, and how is it shipped?

Yes, shipping for flagpoles that require freight transportation is paid for by the customer. The freight company will determine the shipping cost based on your destination zip code and whether the building is residential or commercial. We have found that shipping costs tend to be about $450 to $600 per order.

Do you install flagpoles?

We do not, at this time, install the flagpoles. You may hire a general contractor or make it a do-it-yourself project. Instructions on flagpole installation are included on each flagpole’s page.

If my flagpole arrives damaged, what do I do?

Please thoroughly examine the flagpole and accessories when it arrives. If there is a problem, refuse the shipment and call us so that we can take care of the problem.

Is there anything I have to worry about legally?

Before installing a flagpole, check if your municipality or county requires a permit. Some states or counties may not require a permit but have set regulations such as height limitations. If you are part of a homeowners’ association, you should verify if the HOA lists any rules regarding flagpoles.

Still have questions? Take a look at our blog post on what to consider when purchasing a flagpole, or contact us.