Flags - Frequently Asked Questions

Q How long will a top quality flag last?

A. Because weather conditions and the way a flag is treated varies, there is no exact answer to this question. No two flags will ever wear in the same way at the same time. Continuous day and night display will shorten the life of any flag by at least half. Anyone who uses a flag in this way should expect to replace the flag possibly twice annually.

Q What can be done to extend the life of a flag?

A. To keep its colours looking rich and bright, periodic hand-washing (or a machine wash) in warm water will remove most contaminants which can lead to premature deterioration. NB: Please do not dry clean your flag. For larger flags, tests have shown that flag fibres actually benefit from periodic 'rest' so having two flags and rotating them on a regular basis is helpful. Also, you will not be without your flag while one is being cleaned. Inspect your flag regularly and look for signs of wear and tear. If the fly edge is becoming frayed have it repaired as soon as possible before hoisting. If you use anti-fray netting replace that also.

Q. Beside exposure to inclement weather, what else could ruin a flag?

A. Never fold a wet or damp flag. If your flag becomes wet, it should be spread out and allow to dry completely. Also, do not place a flag where the wind will whip it against a rough surface, tree branches, eaves, telephone wires etc. Even the flagpole itself, if in a state of disrepair, could snag the fibres of a flag.

Q. What is the difference between the flags you sell and the printed economy flags that I can purchase very cheaply?

A. The material (woven and knitted polyester) in top quality flags, either appliqued (woven and knitted), screen-printed (woven) or digitally-printed (knitted). is more durable and colourfast than printed, economy polyester flags, with seams and fly ends that are stitched and backstitched.

Q. What is the most commonly ignored rule of flag etiquette?

A. When a flag is no longer of dignified appearance, it should be destroyed. Too many people fly faded and tattered flags and think nothing of it.

Q. How do I determine what size flag I should fly?

A. The length of the flag should be approximately 1/3 of the pole height. A 25ft flagpole, for example should display a flag with a length between 6 and 8ft.

Q. What are the most common flag materials?

A. Knitted and / or woven polyester. A digitally-printed knitted polyester flag (cost effective for 1-20 flags required) will fly better in a gentle breeze, since the fabric is lighter and more tightly woven. Conversely, a woven polyester flag, either screen-printed (cost effective for more than 20 flags required) or appliqued (cost effective for 1-10 flags required) is recommended for use in windy areas since it is 'heavier' and will not 'trap wind as easily. This reduces the 'snapping effect that is common in strong winds and also helps to prolong the flag's life.

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