Flagpole materials in Belgium: aluminium, polyester, wood

The material of a flagpole determines how heavy it is, how it behaves in the wind and how much maintenance it needs. In Belgium, aluminium and polyester are the most common, followed by wood and steel. Which material suits depends on the location, the height and the use.

Aluminium

Aluminium is the most common material for free-standing flagpoles. It is light, strong and does not rust. Aluminium poles are often anodised or powder-coated, which protects the surface and gives it a colour. They are usually tapered, narrower towards the top, which limits the weight and lets the pole flex a little in the wind.

Aluminium conducts electricity. In thunderstorms and near overhead lines, this is something to bear in mind. More on this is in the guide on flagpole safety.

Polyester (fibreglass)

Poles of glass-fibre reinforced polyester are light, flexible and do not conduct electricity. They bend with gusts and then spring back. The outer layer is usually gelcoated or varnished, and over the years it can turn dull under UV light. Polyester poles are popular with private individuals and associations.

Wood

Wooden poles were long the standard and are still found at historic buildings, castles and churches, and where a traditional look is wanted. Wood needs more maintenance: painting or staining, and checking the base for rot. A wooden pole weighs more than an aluminium pole of the same length.

Steel

Steel poles are mainly used for great heights, for example at businesses, stadiums and public squares. Steel is strong but heavy, and rusts without protection. Steel poles are therefore usually hot-dip galvanised and often painted as well. For such poles, a calculated foundation is customary.

Wind and sea air in Belgium

The Belgian national annex to the Eurocode on wind actions, NBN EN 1991-1-4 ANB, divides Belgium into zones with a reference wind speed of 23 to 26 m/s. According to a presentation by Odisee University of Applied Sciences, 26 m/s applies in Bruges and 23 m/s in Arlon, which gives Bruges a peak velocity pressure about 28 per cent higher. At the coast, salty air adds to this and attacks metals without good protection.

Manufacturers usually state which wind zone and flag size their poles are designed for. More on this is in the guide on flagpole heights.

Material and maintenance

Circular VR 2015/37 recommends regularly checking the number of poles and their physical condition on Flemish public buildings. More on this is in the guides on flagpole maintenance and flagpole lifespan.