Monthly Archives: October 2024

Selecting the Right Halyard for Your Flagpole

The size of halyard you need depends on two main factors: the height of your flagpole and the size that the flagpole truck (or pulley) will accommodate.

Common Halyard Sizes

  • 3/16″
  • 1/4″
  • 5/16″
  • 3/8″

What Size Halyard Do You Need?

  • 1/4″ Halyard: Suitable for most residential flagpoles up to 20 feet.
  • 5/16″ Halyard: Ideal for commercial and residential flagpoles up to 50 feet.
  • 3/8″ Halyard: Designed for commercial flagpoles up to 80 feet.

For internal flagpoles equipped with a cam cleat, order according to the height of your flagpole. These halyards are factory pre-made, come with a thimble crimped onto the end for easy installation, and are referred to as rope assemblies.

Most internal fiberglass flagpoles require a 3/16″ halyard. Be sure to consult your flagpole manual for more specific guidance.

Note: For internal halyard flagpoles that utilize a winch, refer to the Winch Operation, Care and Maintenance, and Wire Cable Replacement Instructions for Internal Halyard Flagpoles.

Product Features

  • Durability: Our flagpole rope remains firm and round over pulleys yet offers flexibility and good elasticity.
  • Pricing: Priced per foot, our solid braided multi-filament halyard meets Federal Specification MIL-C-43307.
  • Ordering Instructions: Specify the number of feet required—the quantity in your cart should reflect the desired length. When ordering rope for your flagpole, remember to double the height of your flagpole (e.g., for a 20-foot flagpole, order 40 feet of halyard) and add an extra 5 feet to ensure you have enough length after tying your knots and attaching your snaphooks. Additionally, we recommend tying a knot on the top snaphooks to secure the flag and protect the sheave of the flagpole truck.

How big should my flagpole be?

The most frequent question I get from people shopping for flagpoles is “how big of a pole should I get?” When deciding on the size of a flagpole for a residential setting, consider the following factors:

  1. Flag Size: The flagpole should be proportionate to the size of the flag. A common guideline is for a flagpole to be, at most, 3 times as tall as the length of the flag. For example, a 3×5 foot flag typically requires a flagpole of at least 15 feet. This is for a vertical flagpole – if you’re putting it on the side of your house, 3’x5′ is appropriate for either a 5′ or bigger pole. See here for our selection of house mounted flags, poles, and sets.
    Flagpole with solar light
  2. Pole Height: Consider the height of nearby structures (like your house, trees, or fences) to ensure the pole will stand out without looking out of place. We have a huge variety in stock, from 15′ and up. Our favorite (made here in New Hampshire!) is the Zeus Aura series – this residential flagpole is very high quality at a reasonable price!
  3. Visibility: Think about the viewpoints from which the flag will be seen. A taller flagpole can often improve visibility from a distance.
  4. Local Regulations: Check if there are any local zoning laws, codes, or community guidelines regarding flagpole height and installation.
  5. Wind Conditions: If you live in a windy area, a shorter flagpole might be more stable. Additionally, consider investing in a sturdier pole and appropriate flag materials to withstand high winds. Our in-stock steel poles are 18′, and beautiful in either black or bronze.
  6. Aesthetic Preferences: Ensure the flagpole complements your home and landscaping. Consider materials and finishes that harmonize with your exterior decor. While white is the “classic” look, we have brushed aluminum, black, and bronze in stock.
  7. Maintenance: Taller poles might require more maintenance or specialized equipment to install or repair. Think about how easy it will be to maintain the pole and the flag. Need flagpole maintenance in the New England area? Give us a call!
  8. Installation Location: Ensure the area chosen for installation has sufficient clearance from trees, buildings, and power lines both for safety and to allow the flag to fly freely.

By evaluating these factors, you can better determine the ideal flagpole size and location for your home.

Own a business or want a bigger, sturdier flagpole? Check out the Zeus Aeolus series! We offer full installation for all flagpoles.

I want to proudly display my 5’x8′ American flag!

If you’re considering flying a 5′ x 8′ American flag, there are several important factors to keep in mind to ensure you choose the right flagpole and display it correctly.

Choosing the Right Flagpole Height

The size of your flagpole is crucial when displaying a 5′ x 8′ flag, which covers an area of 40 square feet. A common recommendation is that the length of the flag should be about 1/4 to 1/3 of the flagpole height for optimal proportions. This means that for a 5′ x 8′ flag, you will need a flagpole that is preferably 25′ or 30′ tall.

For example, if you opt for a 25′ flagpole, the 5′ x 8′ American flag will fly beautifully. However, if you’re planning to fly two flags on this pole, there are important considerations. While 40 sq ft is the recommended area for the primary flag, if you wish to display a second flag, consider using a 4′ x 6′ flag in combination with a 3′ x 5′ flag. Together, these will total 39 sq ft (24 sq ft + 15 sq ft), making it a snug fit if you want to avoid overloading your pole.

To showcase both a 5′ x 8′ American flag and an additional flag without compromising their display or violating size recommendations, you would need to upgrade to a 30′ flagpole. This height accommodates larger flags up to 60 sq ft, allowing you to safely display a 5′ x 8′ American flag alongside a 4′ x 6′ state flag, for a combined total of 64 sq ft (40 sq ft + 24 sq ft).

Considering the Strength of Your Flagpole

The material and condition of your flagpole also play a significant role. A new, sturdy one-piece aluminum or fiberglass flagpole should support your flags without issue. However, if your pole is older or made from thinner materials, it would be wise to consider smaller flags to prevent damage or unnecessary strain.

We also have beautiful black and bronze steel flagpoles in stock!

Final Thoughts: Make Your Choice

With this knowledge, determine how many flags you wish to fly and the size of your flagpole. When you have selected the right combination, it’s time to hoist those flags high and show your pride!

small Zeus flagpole

Common Flag Size Range Chart

  • 15’ Flagpole: 2’ x 3’ – 3’ x 5’
  • 20’ Flagpole: 3’ x 5’ – 4’ x 6’
  • 25’ Flagpole: 4’ x 6’ – 5’ x 8’
  • 30’ Flagpole: 5’ x 8’ – 6’ x 10’
  • 35’ Flagpole: 6’ x 10’ – 8’ x 12’
  • 40’ Flagpole: 6’ x 10’ – 10’ x 15’
  • 45’ Flagpole: 8’ x 12’ – 10’ x 15’
  • 50’ Flagpole: 10’ x 15’ – 12’ x 18’
  • 60’ Flagpole: 10’ x 15’ – 15’ x 25’
  • 70’ Flagpole: 12’ x 18’ – 20’ x 30’
  • 80’ Flagpole: 15’ x 25’ – 20’ x 38’
  • 90’ Flagpole: 15’ x 25’ – 20’ x 38’
  • 100’ Flagpole: 15’ x 25’ – 30’ x 60’

By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can confidently choose the right flagpole and display for your 5′ x 8′ American flag. Happy flag flying!

Flagpole with solar light