A comprehensive guide to flag care

As with anything that spends a lot of time outdoors, flags are subject to wear and tear from the elements. They are consumable items and will require replacement every few months, depending on their usage. There are some things you can do, however, to care for and effectively prolong the lifespan of your flag. We explore these in this short guide.

Weather considerations

If heavy rain or high winds are forecast, you should lower your flags. This will prevent unnecessary wear of the flag and strain on the flagpoles. Winds exceeding 31mph (Beaufort Scale 6 and prolonged wet weather can be particularly damaging for your flags. It can speed up the deterioration of the fabric and dull the vibrant colours on the flag.

Flag cleaning and storage

To clean your flag, you can use a washing machine set to a warm wash. You can use regular, mild cleaning detergents. Once washed you need to ensure they are fully dry before storage. Storing wet fabric can lead to mildew. They should be stored in a well-ventilated area.

Top Tip: Having spare flags with the same design can allow for flag rotation. One flag can be displayed whilst another can be cleaned and stored.

Flag placement

By ensuring your flagpoles are not positioned too close to each other, you’ll avoid the fabric snagging on each other. You should also position your flags strategically to both maximise visibility while minimising exposure to pollutants and UV radiation. If your flagpole has an external halyard, ensure it is tightly secured. This will help prevent snagging by keeping the flag clear of surrounding obstacles.

Regular inspections

If possible, make flag and flagpole inspections part of your regular routine. As part of the inspection, check the flag for signs of wear, tear or fading. If any issues are discovered, swift action should be taken to remove and repair the flag to avoid further damage. Rotating the flag displayed can be included in the regular inspection, to ensure the flag is kept at its best. Flag rotation and regular cleaning will extend the flag’s lifespan.

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By following the tips outlined here, the care you give will help prolong the lifespan of your flag. The tips will also help you maintain the vibrance of your flag whilst it’s flying. Contact us to discuss your flag requirements. Our friendly team are happy to help find the right solution for you. We can also help with your flagpole servicing and maintenance!