Did you know that Pennsylvania is the only state in the country that celebrates Flag Day as an official state holiday? Despite Flag Day’s narrow official reach, we can still honor the Stars and Stripes on our own. Residential flagpoles are the perfect vehicles for expressing that American pride on a broader scale.
Flying the flag is easy when you invest in the right flagpole. Follow the instructions and suggestions below, and you’ll be set for your next Memorial Day celebration and beyond.
Residential Flagpoles That Afford Maximum Ease
When choosing a flagpole for your home, it is important to consider ease of use. After all, you will likely be using it daily to raise your flag in the morning and lower it again before dark.
Titan makes a telescoping pole that comes in an easy format to install and is a breeze to use. The simplicity is demonstrated in Flagpole Farm’s video detailing the few materials you will need for installation and easy instructions for successfully planting your flagpole. The installation process will only take about an hour out of your day, and you will reap the benefits for years to come.
Once the pole is installed, the flag is then easily raised and lowered with the pole’s telescoping function, eliminating the need for rope and the possibility of those hard-to-untangle knots. Simply clip your flag to the pole with the designated clips, lift the top section of the pole until it engages with the section directly below it, do a quarter turn so it locks in place, and repeat until the pole is fully extended.
Aesthetically, the telescoping pole’s clean lines are easy on the eyes, and its simplicity allows it to fit well in any yard.
In addition, Titan’s telescoping pole is portable. Although the base is fixed in the ground, the pole is removable, meaning you can transport it to your patriotic celebrations. Going away for Memorial Day weekend? Grab the flag and take it with you.
Choosing Your Flagpole’s Location
The location of your flag is an important part of your home. Do you want to express your patriotism so all passersby can see, or do you prefer a more subtle location for your flag? Are there hazards to avoid in your yard or flagpole size regulations in your neighborhood to consider?
These are some of the essential questions to ask yourself before investing time and money in a new flagpole.
Know Your Neighborhood Rules
Although homeowner’s associations are not allowed to prohibit residents from flying American flags, they can regulate their size and location.
Some require specific types of sturdy flagpoles to mitigate safety risks. Some mandate that they are placed a certain distance from the sidewalk. Others do not allow stand-alone poles but rather require flags to be connected to the house.
Because every homeowner’s association is different, be sure to check with yours before purchasing a pole that is too tall or planting it in an unauthorized location.
Consider Your Desired Aesthetic
Flags and flagpoles come in all shapes and sizes. The choice is a matter of preference because ease of installation is essentially the same regardless of the size.
Make sure to consider the size of your desired flag before purchasing a flagpole. A larger flag will require a sturdier (and often taller) pole to support it. Check the flagpole specifications to make sure they are proportionate to the size of your desired flag.
Consider whether you want your flag to stand on its own in your yard, making it the center of attention, or if you prefer that it be integrated into the landscaping.
Account for Safety
Make sure to choose a heavy-duty flagpole, like Titan’s telescoping pole because it can withstand winds of between 75 and 95 miles per hour. This will decrease the risk of your flagpole causing damage to property and even people in stormy weather.
Be familiar with your surroundings, and avoid placing the flagpole near safety hazards. Make sure to keep the pole at least 10 feet away from power lines to avoid electrocution. Factor in the height of your flagpole to the proximity of power lines to ensure that if the pole were to fall, it would not take power lines down with it.
Consider the location of trees to ensure that their roots will not interfere with the pole as they grow.
A Few Things To Remember About Residential Flagpoles
Now that you’ve chosen your flagpole and its location, all you have to worry about is your flag.
If you decide to fly the Stars and Stripes, remember that the US Flag Code prohibits American flags from touching the ground. Take extra care when raising and lowering the flag.
The Flag Code also requires that the flag be illuminated at all times. While some enjoy raising and lowering the flag every day after sunrise and before sunset, others prefer investing in light to keep the flag lit up after the sun goes down.
If you choose to fly more than one flag, the flag of the United States should be on top, flying the highest.
Fly Your Flag With Pride
Residential flagpoles are wonderful ways to express a love for our country that neighbors will appreciate. Now that you know all about telescoping poles and what to consider before purchase and installation, it is time to pull the trigger and start setting up your new and improved yard. If you are looking for further insight into the art of flying your flag, we invite you to visit our blog.