A Buyer's Guide in Choosing the Right Flag Material

Are all flags the same? The answer is no, they are not. When you are about to purchase a flag, you will encounter plenty of options to choose from.

22:39 19 November 2019

Making the right decision and picking out the perfect flag for yourself can be a tough call. There are a few things you will need to know before buying an outdoor flag.

Some of us tend to weigh so many factors when it is time to buy a flag and exclude the importance of flag material. However, the material of a flag is as important as what is displayed on it. Lots of variables determine a flag’s durability and quality, and its material is one of them. Much like how we cannot go outdoors wearing shorts during winter, we should avoid buying the wrong flag for the wrong purposes.

Flag materials vary in weight and thickness. The weight of the method and threads used to stitch the flag, for example, are supposed to keep your flag from shredding in the wind.

Fortunately for you, there are a few things to keep in mind while buying a flag. Here are certain guidelines to consider when it comes to choosing the right flag material:

Fabric

Not all flag fabrics are the same, and the variables depend on where you will be hanging the flag itself. Here is a list of the most
popular options:

Nylon:

This is the most popular choice of fabric for outdoor and indoor flags. Nylon is usually considered to be thin and shiny. It is light and sun resistant, and tends to dry quickly. Its lightness actually makes it easier to fly well even during the hottest weather conditions, and creates an attractive appearance in sunny weather.

Nylon gives off a bright and vibrant vibe, and brilliant display. It is also great in rainy areas because of fast-drying material. This fabric is generally more budget-friendly than the other options.

Cons: Due to its lightweight material, nylon flags do not last as long as other flags. Since they can be flown easily in the slightest breeze, you will have to be mindful of where you live and the weather conditions.

Polyester:

Considered the best choice for high wind areas and places with extreme weather conditions, polyester is the most durable of all flag materials on the market. This fabric provides luxury through fade-resistant colors, and it includes an open weave to reduce its wind resistance as well as its ability to fly.

Polyester flags have an excellent outdoor life span. Although nylon has a quick-drying ability, polyester is better at being water-resistant.

Cons: Although polyester flags come with great color quality, their surface tends to appear rather dull and rough when it is touched. Because they are heavier than nylon flags, this material will need more than just a breeze to be able to fly.

Cotton:

This flag fabric is considered rather traditional in most places. Some cotton flags can withstand outdoor use, but will require extra care and attention in order to be preserved. Cotton combines rich and vibrant colors with good wearing quality, which gives off an excellent appearance. This classic choice can be useful for indoor display and ceremonial uses. 

Cons: One crucial disadvantage to keep in mind is that cotton flags are not water-resistant, nor do they normally withstand rough weather conditions. They also tend to wrinkle easily, fade, stain and shrink, making them require more maintenance than polyester and nylon flags.

Tip: Of all these popular fabrics, it is generally recommended to opt for either nylon or a polyester flag. But, as stated at https://starspangledflags.com/product-category/american-flags/, this will also depend on where and how you will use your flag. Flags vary in price, quality, and size. The flag you should go for needs to have a hard thread to make the print seem colorful, bright, and strong.

Other types of fabrics:

Tackle Will:

This type of fabric is a heavyweight blend of cotton and rayon, with cotton being 38% of it. It tends to have a rich polish on one side, and matte one on the other. This can be suitable for flags that might be viewed from one side only.

Vinyl:

This fabric can be used for outdoors, because it is resistant to tearing and ripping. It is also U.V resistant and can be displayed for double-sided applications.

Sunbrella:

Sunbrella flags are made from 100% solution dyed acrylic fiber. They are both fade and weather-resistant, and can be a good choice for light posts or banners.

You will need to keep other things in mind when you purchase a flag. Here are two things to remember when it comes to flags:

Flag Stitching

If you go for a flag with chain stitching, once one single thread breaks, the whole flag will come completely apart. You would not want to end up with a total disaster on your hands after buying your new flag, so make sure you ask the store about how the flag is stitched before getting one.

Flag Size

Most flags for home kit are usually 3’x5’. Use this as a guideline for flags in commercial or residential settings:

• 20' flagpole / 3' X 5' or 4' X 6' flag
• 25' flagpole / 5' X 8' flag
• 30' - 35' flagpole / 6' X 10' flag
• 40' - 45' flagpole / 8' X 12' flag
• 50' flagpole / 10' X 15' flag
• 60' - 65' flagpole / 10' X 19' flag
• 70' - 80' flagpole / 12' X 18' flag
• 90' - 100' flagpole / 20' X 38' flag
  
  

A Flag’s Lifespan

Since you cannot predict the lifespan of your flag, you’ll need to take a few necessary precautions to make it last with you:

• Wash it occasionally with detergent.
  
  
• Take it down during bad weather.
  
  
• Let it dry before you store it.

 

The factors you need to take into account while purchasing a flag are endless. It is important you have a budget in mind to be able to narrow down the options. Remember to ask the store about the fabric, the manufacturer and the stitching. You can also feel the material to see if it’s rough or soft. Keep this guide handy next time you go flag shopping.