How can I make my American flag last longer?
At LIBERTY FLAGS, The American Wave®, we help many first time flag buyers with the task of selecting the American flag that is most suited to their flag flying circumstance. Understandably, the most common question that arises is, “How long will my American flag last?” The second most common question is, “Why?”
We understand why people need to know this. Many times, our customers are buying for their companies, but need to make informed, accurate choices because they often must meet budget requirements for a predefined fiscal period.
Alternatively, a residential flag flyer may have an inaccurate perception of the longevity of a flag due to experiencing wide-ranging flag flying habits, maybe from their parents, neighbors or other people in their lives. Without a full understanding of the influential factors, they might be disappointed with the lifespan of their flag.
What determines the lifespan of an American flag?
The truth is, there is no way that anyone can predict the exact lifespan of any given flag. However, we do know the factors that influence the lifespan of a flag and we can use that knowledge to inform our purchasing choices. They are flag quality, flying frequency and weather conditions.
The first influencing factor is the quality of the flag. It goes without saying that American-made American flags exceed foreign-made flags in durability. The materials are better sourced and the craftsmanship is unparalleled. On top of that, the colors and dimensions are more accurate.
Second, flying frequency plays an important part in the equation. When we are young, we often don’t realize that our parents only flew the flag on special holidays, bringing it inside and putting it away most of the time. This enables the flag to last many years.
Conversely, a flag that is flown every day of the year will need to be repaired, retired and replaced with greater frequency. In this aspect, flags are no different than clothing . . . items worn more routinely will need to be replaced sooner.
Lastly, weather conditions play an enormous role in how much whipping, snapping, expanding and contracting a flag might endure over the span of its use. A flag flying in an area with low wind, moderate temperatures and mild weather will invariably last longer than an identical flag flying in an area with heavy winds, extreme temperatures and harsh weather.
To help you get started, here is an overview of available American flag fabrics and a map of U.S. wind speed ratings.
Call for Photos
Send us photos of your American flags, flagpoles, ropes, or other accessories! We would be honored to feature your stories and photography in our blog or on Facebook. Remember, photos of damaged flags and accessories are valuable, too.Do you have suggestions for information you'd like to see here? If so, please send them our way!
Please send all of your suggestions or questions to [email protected]. We want to hear from you!
Have a great day, from your friends at LIBERTY FLAGS, The American Wave®.
