General Considerations

Information below includes:

·        Height of pole

·        Features of Aluminum Flagpoles

·        Wind Rating

·        Flag Size

·        Aluminum Flagpole Care

·        Flagpole Dictionary

Selecting the proper flagpole for your situation can be made easier by considering the following points:

1.  Height – depends on if the pole is seen freestanding or in relation to a nearby building:

Height of Pole                  Height of Building

        20’                          1 to 2 stories

        25’                          2 to 3 stories

        30’                          3 to 5 stories

        35’                          5 to 7 stories

        40’                          8 to 10 stories

        50’                          10 to 15 stories

Generally, in residential settings, flagpoles of 20 and 25 feet are compatible with most one and two story dwellings.

Flagpoles complimenting commercial buildings can be found in sizes 20 feet and upward with the size dependent on the building height and site location. Many companies will use two poles to fly a U.S. and state flag or three poles to display their corporate flag along with the U.S. and state flags.

Flagpoles can also be used at entrances or along drives leading up to a building or development. 

2.  Features of Aluminum Flagpoles 

·        Residential/Light Commercial flagpoles range from 20’ to 35’. Commercial, Architectural, and Internal Halyard flagpoles range from 20’ to 80’. Standard features include the following:

·        Material: All made from alloy 6063-T6 aluminum tubing with uniform conical taper.

·        Foundation: Ground sleeve mounting is the standard foundation. A PVC sleeve is provided with Residential/Light Commercial external halyard flagpoles and V Cleat internal halyard flagpoles.  Galvanized corrugated steel ground sleeve with grounding spike is standard with all Commercial and Architectural grade external halyard flagpoles. Shoe base and counter balanced poles that can be lowered to the ground for servicing are also available.

·        Halyard Systems: Choose from stationary, single or double revolving halyard systems, or from three internal halyard systems for ground set flagpoles. Internal halyard systems provide a solution to flag theft and vandalism.  Available in V cleat (aluminum flagpoles) cam action cleat (aluminum flagpoles) or winch cable systems.

·        Truck: A single stationary truck assembly is standard for the Residential/Light Commercial external halyard flagpoles or V Cleat Internal Halyard flagpoles.  Single revolving truck assemblies with stainless steel ball bearings are standard features in Commercial and Architectural grade external halyard flagpoles as well in the Cam Cleat and Winch Internal Halyard models.

·        Swivel Snap Hooks: (2) chrome plated bronze swivel snap hooks with neoprene covers are included per halyard. Upon request we will add two additional snap hooks at no charge so you can fly 2 flags at the same time on your flagpole.

·        Finial: Gold anodized aluminum ball.

·        Collar: Spun aluminum flash collar to match pole.

·        Finish: Directional sanded Satin finish is the standard finish. Optional finishes are available for an up charge.

o   Aluminum: Directional sanded satin aluminum finish.

o   Thermo set Power Paint: Lightly textured, the outdoor life of our Thermo set powder coating has a Guaranteed Color Uniformity rating of 15-plus years by the National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers Metal Finishes Manual. Specialty colors are virtually unlimited.

o   Anodized: Available in Clear, Light Bronze, Medium Bronze and Black

3.  Wind Rating – Flagpoles should be selected based on the largest flag flown in the highest wind speed to which it will be subjected.  General guidelines:

·        Coastal areas    110 MPH

·        Inland  70 – 90 MPH

·        Residential versus Commercial/Civic use

·        An aluminum flagpole’s strength or wind rating – resistance is based on wall thickness or gauge, and diameter.

·        One piece and larger size Aluminum flagpoles will have a wind rating of 70 – 120+ MPH depending on the model selected.

4.  Flag Size – The length of the flag should be 1/3 to 1/4 the height of the pole.  For multiple flags on a pole, the top flag should be no larger than 1/4 the height of the pole.  Generally, the flags below the top flag are one size smaller.

5.  Aluminum Flagpole Care

This information comes from American Flagpole, Abingdon, VA:

Types of Staining
1. Dirt, Grass, or Other natural debris that may collect on the pole while it is

waiting to be installed.
2. Chemicals, Paint, and Other markings that may spill onto the pole or be thrown onto the pole. This may be noticed as streaks or marks on the shaft's surface.
3. Water Staining that occurs due to water being in contact with the shaft and having no way to evaporate through the wrappings in a timely fashion. Dark spots or streaks will begin to present themselves over time. This is most often seen when wrapped poles are left outside or not unwrapped immediately after delivery. This is typically described as a 'black mark', 'dark colored streak(s)', or 'dark splotches' along the shaft's length or circumference. Water Staining is the most reported problem we see as a manufacturer.
4. Scratches from improper handling on the job site or by the transportation company.

Prevention and Customer Responsibility
1. Always inspect the shaft and boxes that arrive with your order before signing for them to verify if any shipping damage is present. If damage is present, you must note this on the shipping receipt or the trucking company may not be responsible for the damage. If stored indoors, we still suggest removal of all shipping materials (plastic or paper wrapping and shipping tube) if there is any chance moisture will come into contact with the shaft.
2. Remove all wrappings from the shaft and placed above ground on saw horses with each end properly protected from scratching with blankets or other means as soon as the shaft is received on site. This will give you a chance to look for concealed damage and any other problems (incorrect pole size or # of pieces) which may need to be corrected. This could save delays and inconveniences if unpacked at the last moment.
3. If left in wrapping/shipping container once received at the job site, American Flagpole will take no responsibility for staining that may occur. Warning Labels are prominently displayed on the wrapping and/or at both ends of the shaft. If you decide to leave the shaft in the wrapping, you do so at the risk of having the pole stain if moisture or water is present. If stored for a long period before installation, we suggest a dry location with low humidity. Even when stored inside, it is best to unwrap the pole and store it in anarea where damage is unlikely to occur.

Cleaning of Mild Dirt or Debris
A garden hose, with low to moderate pressure can be used to wash off most dirt and debris that may be on the flagpole. If it still does not come off of the shaft, use of a wet cloth should be tried. If necessary, a mild soap or detergent may be used (items such as Go Jo hand cleaner or liquid soaps). We must warn that the cleaning of any surface that is anodized or painted should be done with great care and that it should be tested on a small 'test' area where the finish will not be seen (ground set poles can be tested in the area which will go into the ground sleeve). Rinse away any remaining soap to prevent future reactions with the metal.

Cleaning and Removal of Water Stains
The following are options to try in removing these stains from shafts in the order of least reactive to most reactive (please follow safety procedures and do not let chemicals come in contact with skin or other body parts – if you do come in contact with the chemical please follow directions on the container or contact a doctor immediately for advice – if chemicals are ingested contact your local poison control hotline immediately). Please dispose of chemicals carefully in correlation with all local and federal guidelines after use.

1. Run a stream of warm or cold water over the stained area using low to moderate pressure from a water hose. Use of a soft cloth may be used to gently rub the affected spot.
2. Mild liquid soaps can be used to aid in removal of the stain. If the pole is painted or anodized, a small spot should be tested first to verify the finish will not be damaged by the product being used.
3. The solution of Lemon oil + Pumice + Pumice Hand Cleaner with soft rags can remove most stains.

ATTENTION: For the following options, always test a spot before proceeding due to the chemical nature of these products. These could cause damage to anodized or painted finishes if not used carefully. For Anodized poles, soap and water is typically sufficient to clean any dirt or stains and the following options are not suggested.

4. Household cleaners such as 409, Lysol, or Texize can be applied with a soft cloth and applied in a circular motion. It is best to rub around the shaft, in the same direction as the sanding marks, to prevent scratches or scarring.
5. Naval Jelly, Zepalen, Sodium Hydroxide, and Diluted Drano (50/50 concentration with water) can be used and applied in the same manner as #3, making sure to rinse clean when complete.
6. Aluminum Alloy Wheel Cleaner, purchased at most retail stores handling automotive supplies. This cleaner should be sprayed directly onto the stained area per the bottle's instructions. A soft cloth should be used to clean the area, in the direction of the sanding marks. In severe cases, the use of a stainless steel wire brush can be used in the direction of the original sanding marks. Depending on the severity of the stain, the process may need to be repeated several times to eliminate the entire stain. If steel bristles are used, rust may set up over time causing the appearance of a stain.
7. EMCEE Chemical has a stain remover sold by the name "Aluminum Stain Remover". They will accept direct calls or contacts at the following address and phone numbers:

EMCEE Chemical
PO Box 39
New Bern, N.C. 20560
1.252.633.5868
Apply per bottle's instructions with a brush onto pole in direction of sanding grain. Rinse with water. For moderately stained poles one quart of the liquid should be sufficient. Outside air temperature may affect performance.

8. Ox-Out is another caustic chemical cleaner which can be provided by American Flagpole. If needed, the chemical comes in 1 gallon containers, which should be sufficient for moderately stained shafts. Apply directly to pole with soft cloth and rinse away with water.

Notes to Remember
Aluminum can be exposed to almost any solvent for a short period of time without any adverse effects. If a cleaner contains oil or wax, a dry cloth should be used to help remove.
Heat accelerates chemical reactions. Cleaners may become overactive or may evaporate too quickly in hot temperatures. It may also create streaks leaving an improper finish. Cold temperatures inhibit the chemical process. Try to clean on a mild day in shaded areas.
Spot testing — place solution on unobtrusive portion of the finish (the part below ground or side away from normal view) in concentration and manner you plan to use for the same length of time. Rinse clean, let dry, and inspect. Check painted or anodized poles for softening/dissolution of color in grain.
NEVER mix chemicals for your own safety.
Do not let chemicals come in contact with other materials or yourself.

Cleaning and Removal of Other Types of Stains
In rare instances a chemical or paint can be spilled onto a shaft when at the job site. In this instance, the options given above for water staining should be attempted. If these do not work, you may also wish to try using paint thinner or remover (using same guidelines as above for your safety).

REMEMBER: No chemical treatment or sanding should be tried on any pole with a painted or anodized finish. Only those with a directionally sanded finish should be considered for these options.

Visible Scratches to Directionally Sanded Surfaces
If scratch marks are present from shipping or from handling on the job site, the following procedures can be used to attempt a repair on the shaft's finish. Again, we warn that these sanding procedures should not be attempted on anodized or painted shaft assemblies.

1. Use an aluminum oxide sanding belt, 80 grit or higher, such as is used with portable electric belt sanders. These are available through most hardware stores.
2. Take the belt and break at one point along the loop to have one long single piece.
3. Pull the belt back and forth (similar to a shoe shining motion) over the stained area of the pole in the same direction as the existing sanding lines on the pole. If care is used in the process, a satin finish equal to the original factory finish can be achieved. See drawing for motion indicated.

6.  Flagpole Dictionary

Anodized finish- A finish achieved by immersing the material into an acid solution and passing a direct current through the material in such a manner as to form a durable oxide film on the surface of the flagpole shaft. This is meant to increase resistance to corrosion and abrasion. However, this process inherently results in color variations where there are chemical or physical differences on the pole shaft or between parts of the pole castings. An anodized finish can be attained in clear, black or various shades of bronze. We do not advise selecting this particular finish. See Thermo set Powder as alternative.

Butt diameter - Diameter at base of pole.

Bronze finish - A color of finish which can be achieved through powder coating or anodizing.

Casted (Decorative) Collar - This collar is made from an aluminum mold. While it normally costs more, but is more durable. It is sold separately and not included in the normal pole set up.

Cam Cleat- The halyard runs inside the pole and is manually pulled through a cam cleat (“brake”), through the truck (pulley/cap assembly) and over the pulley to the outside of the pole where the flag is attached with snap hooks.

Cleats- The cleat is attached to the flagpole, shaft, wall, or at some other desired location and is used to secure the halyard. The halyard is wrapped around the cleat(s) to prevent the flag from moving up/down the pole.

Counterbalanced flagpole- Consists of mounting to a counterweight (box filled with counter weight material with base plate and support channels) to allow pole to be rotated to the ground for special maintenance needs.

Double revolving truck- This truck assembly mounts to the top of the flagpole and has a pulley on either side. The assembly includes bearings that allow it to turn with the wind. This feature is only available on external halyard flagpoles. A single revolving is the Industry Standard.

External halyard- Rope system for raising and lowering flag located on outside of pole.

Finial - Ball, eagle or other ornament used to finish off the top of your flagpole.

Finish - The surface appearance or texture of the flagpole. Standard finishes include satin, anodized and several thermo-set powder paints.

Flash collar- Fits over the ground sleeve and rests at the bottom of the pole to protect it from the elements and gives the base a finished look. Space between collar and pole is sealed to keep water away from the base of the pole and anchorage system.

Gaff- Extension, particularly in nautical poles, on which flags can be displayed. Typically is attached at an angle.

Ground sleeve- Foundation sleeve fabricated from 16 gauge galvanized corrugated steel tube with 3/16” thick steel base and support plates, ¾” dia. X 18" long ground(Lighting) spike and steel centering wedges. Depending on pole, the sleeve may also be available in PVC material without plates or spike.

Ground set foundation- Support structure which includes an area of concrete with the ground sleeve properly installed into it. Sizes vary based on pole sizes and locations.

Hinge base – The foundation mounting system that uses anchor rods and a special ground plate with hinge lugs that allows the flagpole to be raised or lowered.

Internal halyard- Rope or cable system is located on the inside of a pole for raising and lowering a flag. It is accessed through a hinged door compartment in shaft.

Nautical- A flagpole with a yard arm attached (typically used around water). Also an optional Gaff can be included. Single and double mast varieties exist.

Outrigger- An External Halyard Flagpole that is mounted to the side of a building at an angle.

Powder Paint- See Thermo set Powder Paint.

Satin Finish- This finish is achieved on aluminum shaft by directional sanding.

Shoe base foundation- Pole or a support structure which normally includes a set of anchor bolts embedded into an area of concrete. A shoe base flagpole utilizes a welded base casting that sits over the anchor bolts and is held in place with nuts, flat washers and lock washers.

Single revolving truck - Assembly that mounts to the top of the flagpole and has a pulley on one side. The assembly includes bearings that allow it to turn with the wind. Single revolving is the Industry Standard.

Snap hooks - Used to attach flag to rope or cables.

Stationary Truck - Pulley assembly that mounts to the top of the flagpole with set screws. This system is more economical and requires less maintenance than the revolving style.

Thermo set powder paint - Electro statically applied polyester or urethane powder that is oven cured to form a dry and durable finish. This finish gives the option of further customizing your flagpole to match its surroundings. Standard colors are dark bronze, black, white, dark green and clear. Custom colors can be mixed per a customer's specifications. The outdoor life of our standard thermo set powder coating (1.5 mil TGIC polyester thermo set powders) is rated at 15-plus years by the National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers Metal Finishes Manual.

V Cleat- The halyard runs inside the pole and is manually pulled through a patented “V” cleat, through the truck (pulley/cap assembly) and over the pulley to the outside of the pole where the flag is attached with snap hooks.

Vertical Wall Mounted Flagpole- Typically an External Halyard Flagpole that is mounted to the side of a building vertically, using fabricated brackets which bolt to the structure.

Wall thickness- Thickness of the aluminum tubing used. This varies based on wind requirements and pole size.

Winch– Used in internal halyard system flagpoles, this mechanism typically has gears for raising and lowering flags with a removable handle.

Yard Arm– This tapered spear runs horizontally and is attached to the flagpole at some position above ground. Generally used on Nautical Flagpoles to create additional space to fly smaller flags.