The U.S. Government generally expects a nylon flag to last 90 days based on the flag flying daily from sunrise to sunset, except during inclement weather. It should be noted that tests have shown that, in some cases, a flag flown 24 hours a day will last only one-fourth as long as one flown only during the daylight hours. Wait, what? So how long should a flag last? Let’s break it down.
Test One: Fly your nylon US Made American Flag 24 hours, except during inclement weather.
Results: Flag lasts 90 Days
Test Two: Fly a nylon US Made American Flag during daylight hours, except during inclement weather
Results: Flag lasts 360 Days
With that said, you can hang a brand new flag in 2 different locations and the results will be different. Flag life is based on several factors: Flag size, flag material, pollution in the area, weather, wind, and carelessness.
Flag Size
Larger flags have more whip when flying, resulting in more wear on the flag than a smaller flag. When flying very large flags, 15’x25’, 20’x30’ and larger, we often recommend using a smaller flag during the winter months to prolong the life of the flag.
Flag Material
Our flags are constructed with either nylon or polyester and made to fly outdoors. When flying flags 4’x6’ and larger, we have found that 2-ply polyester material (looks and feels like cotton) lasts longer than nylon. Also, it is important to make sure your flag is FMAA Certified, which means the flag in its entirety, is made in the USA.
Pollution
Flying a flag in a highly polluted area will not last as long as a flag that is situated away from major highways and manufacturing facilities. The pollution breaks down the fibers of the fabric that make up the flag. Occasionally washing your flag in warm mild detergent water will prevent dirt and pollutants from attacking your flag.
Weather/Wind
A flag that is flown during extreme weather including high winds, blizzards, tornados, hurricanes, Derecho, polar vortex, and hail will affect the life of the flag significantly. To prolong the life of the flag, take down your flag in inclement weather.
Carelessness
Carelessness includes the flag getting tangled in trees, on the side of a home or building, rubbing on a fence or other foreign object. Also, attaching items to the flag or flying an oversized flag will shorten the life of the flag.
Regardless of how well it is constructed, a flag is, after all, only made of cloth and will sooner or later succumb to the elements. However, it has been well documented that reasonably good care can contribute greatly to longer life.
Watch the corner on the fly end of your flag. This is normally the first area to show signs of wear and tear. Trim off the frayed edges and re-hem the flag.
Cleaning and repairing your flag will significantly extend the life of your flag and your flag investment. We offer this service, drop it off, mail it to us or we can come by take your flag down to clean and mend it.
Consider having two flags and rotate them on a regular basis. Your flagpole will never be without a flag. Keep one flag flying while one flag is being cleaned and repaired or stored.We offer a large variety of FMAA Certified American flags, let us assist in getting the best flag for your needs.
