Flagpole and flag lifespan: what it depends on

The flagpole and the flag age at different rates. A galvanised steel pole can stay in the same place for many years; the flag, exposed to sun, rain and wind every day, wears out much sooner. This guide brings together what the sources say about the lifespan of each and about the end of a flag’s life, which Law 5,700 regulates.

The lifespan of the pole

For hot-dip galvanised steel poles, B&B Iluminação’s sheet gives a 10-year warranty on the galvanising and notes that durability varies with the installation environment. The factors that weigh are:

• the environment: on the coast, salt air speeds up corrosion;
• the coating: scratches and knocks during assembly or transport that go through the zinc layer expose the steel;
• wind load: a flag that is large for the height of the pole increases the load on the base and the joints; the guide to flagpole heights shows the relation between the two;
• maintenance: inspecting the base, the joints and the fittings extends the life of the pole, as described in the guide to flagpole maintenance.

The hoisting fittings, such as the line and the pulley, can be replaced separately, without replacing the pole.

The lifespan of the flag

The flag is the most exposed part. Its lifespan depends on:

• the fabric and finish: the Federal University of Viçosa specifies, for outdoor use, parachute nylon, 100% polyamide, resistant to weather and sunlight, with UV protection and triple stitching;
• the time it flies: under article 15 of Law 5,700, the flag is normally raised at 8 a.m. and lowered at 6 p.m.; a flag that stays on the pole day and night builds up more hours of sun and wind;
• the wind: strong winds, such as those in INMET’s orange and red warnings, from 60 to over 100 km/h, can fray the flag, especially on the edge away from the pole;
• the size: large flags put more stress on the seams and the hoist.

When the flag reaches its end

Law 5,700 gives the criterion for replacing it: under article 31(I), displaying the national flag in poor condition is an expression of disrespect, prohibited. Frayed edges, tears, open seams and faded colours are the visible signs of that state.

Under article 32, flags in poor condition are handed in to any military unit, to be burned on Flag Day, 19 November, according to the proper ceremonial. Until then, a flag out of use is kept in a dignified place (article 20).

Warranty and lifespan

A warranty is not the same as a lifespan. Under the Consumer Protection Code, the period to complain about apparent defects in durable products is 90 days from delivery and, for a hidden defect, it starts when the defect becomes evident (article 26). A contractual warranty, such as the 10 years on the galvanising given by B&B Iluminação, is in addition to the legal one and applies under the manufacturer’s written terms (article 50). The guide to flagpole repair covers defects.