Flag Life Expectancy This is entirely dependent on the climatic conditions and hours of flying. We would advise that since most flags are either an act of courtesy (national flags) or advertising (company logos) it is best to have them in top condition by changing them regularly. Flags are an inexpensive and highly visible means to advertise your company. Wind and rain In winds exceeding 25mph flags should be taken down. Remember that if it is windy at ground level it is much worse at the top of the flagstaff. Heavy rain will increase the weight of the flag which will cause unnecessary wear, especially in high winds. Flag Maintenance Dye Stability The dyes used in our manufacturing process are all tested for UV stability however salt and direct sunlight can have adverse effects on colour. Damage Damage to flags is often caused by objects that the flag beats against in the wind or by old style wooden flagstaffs which do not have a smooth finish. To reduce the risk of damage, ensure that the halyard is taut at all times, and that there is no risk of the flag snagging. Washing and repair Air pollution will cause white flags to become grey over time. Flags can be washed in a normal household washing machine set at a 30 degree wash with normal mild detergents. Avoid the use of soda or bleaching alkali. If the flag starts fraying it can sometimes be trimmed back and re-hemmed. Don't settle for old and tattered flags! We see the destructive power of weather, the sun, dirt and chemical pollution all around us - some locations more than others. And even if your flag is brought down and stored indoors every night, exposure to the elements will, over time, affect the condition and lifespan of your flag. It has been estimated that there are somewhere around five million flags being flown around the country at any given time. Many locations have a multiplicity of flags displayed. During the World Cup that number can easily double. But is anyone ever instructed that flags require maintenance or replacement? Suggested Maintenance Cycle For a modest amount, you can ensure that your flags are kept in peak condition to do the job in hand ! - The Flag can be dry cleaned. - The Flag can have minor repairs that can easily be done by the seamstress at the local dry cleaner. - Rotation. Have two flags. When the one being displayed begins to have minor problems, replace it while it is being cleaned and/or repaired. - Remove and Replace. Have a replacement on hand, so that when your flag has reached such a condition that it is no longer fit for display, it can be retired. - For portrait flags ensure that the eyelets positioned down the hoist side of the flag are secured loosely to the flagpole (either with flag restraining loops or cable ties) this will ensure that the flag flies correctly without undue strain on flag or pole. Flag Replacement We encourage you to make allowances in your budget for at least one additional flag, plus maintenance and replacement. Regardless of where your flag has been manufactured, we can make a replacement of ANY flag of any size that can fit any pole or fitting. Just because you have had a flag made by another company does not need you should return to them for a replacement - the reason for the replacement may be that the flag was not manufactured correctly in the first place ! Eclipse Flags are flag manufacturers based in Essex and manufacture and replace hundreds of thousands of flags ever year. and have done so for the past 35 years. Other Considerations Flag Material. A flag suitable for extremely heavy winds and/or one that will be flown daily, will be more expensive than a flag of similar size that would be fine for casual and infrequent display in a moderate climate zone. Our experienced staff can advise you on the correct replacement for your needs. In Conclusion... If asked to bring, unfurl and present your organization’s flag at an important function, would you bring a flag that is dirty, tattered or faded? We know you wouldn't, but the point is that we often neglect the condition of our flags. We simply have to become more aware of the negative impression that a worn flag can create. Always ensure your organization is flying a serviceable flag. It does not have to be in perfect condition, but it certainly should be in good enough condition that the casual observer will not notice any minor holes, rips or advanced fading. We have to learn to take care of our flags because for the most part we are never taught about flag maintenance. Regular preventative measures are cheaper than constantly buying new ones and will keep your flag creating a great impression on the public - which of course is why you bought it in the first place.         Click here to see full specifications of all our portable display units Other portable and standard flags we manufacture: Display Flags - Car Dealer Flags - Event Flags - Car Flags - Custom Flags - Exhibition Flags - Extendable Flags  Feather Flags - Flags - Forecourt Flags - Forecourt Flag supplier UK - Karting Flags - Promotional Flags - Sports Flags  Eclipse Flags Ltd, 11 Featherby Way, Purdeys Industrail Estate, Rochford, Essex, SS41LD sales@eclipseflags.com 01702 531337