Are you finally ready to raise that flag outside of your house, to share your pride and joy with all your neighbors and passersby? Ready to put your appreciation for your nation, your state, or your college on full display?
Then you’re going to need to install a flag pole. Modern flag poles make it easy to fly a flag, lower it when necessary, or even swap out flags depending on how you’re feeling that day.
And many people choose to purchase aluminum flag poles because they are affordable, lightweight, and sturdy out in the elements. But aluminum isn’t the only option available.
If you are ready to buy flag pole components today, then you need to know what material to purchase. Keep reading to learn why you should, and why you shouldn’t, choose aluminum flag poles for sale.
Common Types of Flag Poles
Aside from metal flag poles, many people choose flag poles made out of wood. This has been the common way to raise a flag on residential and commercial properties for many years.
Wood is cheap, easy to size and shape in any way desired, and easy to work with. With a wooden flag pole, you wouldn’t have to worry about the pole rusting.
But you’ll need to weatherproof the wooden flag pole to ensure it repels moisture and doesn’t rot. Doing so on a regular basis can help it to last many years.
However, even with ongoing care and maintenance, a wooden flag pole isn’t going to last forever, just like a wooden fence won’t last forever. And if you live in an area with intense climates, such as with heavy snowfall up north, you can expect even fewer years of life with wood.
But wood works great, especially if you are installing the flag pole on or next to a wooden structure, such as a fence, a shed, or a pergola. The consistency of multiple wooden objects will help the flag pole fit in better.
Fiberglass is also a common choice for outdoor flag poles. It’s very strong, and super light compared to metal. It sways and bends ever so slightly in the wind. But it comes at a high cost.
The other main material for flag poles is metal. Stainless is always a popular option.
It’s extremely durable and can last many decades with only basic care and maintenance. But it’s a heavy metal, and usually costs quite a bit more than other options.
So if you are looking for a long-lasting flagpole that isn’t too heavy, and thus isn’t too expensive, aluminum might be the best choice.
Benefits of an Aluminum Flag Pole
So why is aluminum such a popular choice for flag poles? For starters, it doesn’t contain any iron. If iron is not present, that means that the pole cannot rust.
On top of that, aluminum is lightweight, especially compared to metals like steel. This can make it much easier to purchase, transport, and install.
And aluminum is much cheaper than other metals like steel. So you can get a high-quality pole at a much lower price point.
Aluminum is also intended to last for a very long time. With a quality aluminum pole, you can fly your flag for decades without needing to replace your pole.
It’s not going to be as strong, or able to bear as much weight as steel or other metals. But flags are small pieces of cloth. Flag poles don’t need to bear very much weight.
They do, however, need to be strong enough not to bend or break in high winds. In most cases, aluminum will do just fine. Hurricanes may be the exception.
Most homeowners and business owners prefer purchasing an aluminum pole, as it requires virtually no care and maintenance. They are affordable and usually come in a variety of finishes to match existing colors.
How to Install a Flag Pole
Once you’ve chosen the material for your flag pole, you get to think about how you plan to install it. There are many options available depending on where and how you want to display your flag.
Some people want to go all out, installing a 25-foot flag pole out in their yard, that rises up above their home and can be seen all the way down the street. You’ll need to find a spot in your yard where this pole can be installed, that won’t interfere with powerlines above, or pipes and wires down below.
You can buy a flag pole kit, which will come with all of the hardware you are going to need to ensure the flag is properly installed in the ground. A telescoping pole is helpful, as it’s much easier to install and you can lower it down if necessary, such as when a storm is approaching.
If you don’t need a large, detached flag pole, you can attach a smaller pole to an existing structure. Many homeowners like installing a small flag pole near their front door.
The easiest way to do this is with a wall mount flag pole. A vertical mount can be affixed to any vertical surface, such as a wall or pillar. The flag pole holder rises up at an angle, away from the bracket.
These are great because even if there isn’t any wind, the angle at which the flag is displayed helps it to open up for an effective display.
Aside from a wall mount, you can choose a horizontal bracket. These can be installed on any flat surface, such as the flat spot on a roof, or on top of a structure like a pergola. The flag rises straight up from the bracket for a simple, effective display.
Choosing the Right Type of Flag Pole
Now that you know what type of flag poles are available, it’s time to choose which is right for you. An aluminum flag pole combines the best attributes of all the other materials and usually comes in at the best price point.
Of course, if you want something stronger, like steel, it comes at a cost. Aluminum will work well for most people, however.
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