Common Problems with a Telescoping Flag Pole

As telescoping flag poles have become more popular, most early problems have been eliminated by slight changes to design. Modern telescopic flag poles have very few problems.

Weight

As new materials like aluminum and fiberglass have been introduced to improve the general performance of telescopic flag poles they have also answered most of the problems relating to weight. A 25-foot flag pole can now weigh merely a few pounds but be strong enough to withstand high winds.

Springs

Although only a slight problem with some aluminum flag poles the steel springs that operate the locking mechanisms can rust and lead to the flag pole collapsing as they lose resilience. The much more popular twist locking mechanism uses no steel springs but it is still unusual to see that form of locking mechanism on an aluminum flag pole.

Sticking Buttons

Spring locking mechanisms also have an occasional problem with the release buttons getting jammed. The jammed locking buttons can prevent a pole being erected or prevent it being lowered. The problem can often be eased with the application of light machine oil but it is a problem that will persist and may require the springs to be replaced and the buttons to be thoroughly cleaned.

Flags Tangling

With flag poles that do not allow the flag clip to freely swing around the pole it is possible for flags to become entangled and tied around the pole. Most telescopic flag poles have solved this problem by having the flag hooks on freely rotating rings.

Stiff Operation

This has almost disappeared as a problem but can occur when a telescopic flag pole has been erected for a few days and has become coated with dirt. If the flagpole is not cleaned before trying to collapse it the dirt can build up under the locking rings and cause it to jam or become stiff. This problem is easily prevented by using a damp cloth to clean the pole as the sections are collapsed.

Flag Pole Holders

The holders for many telescopic flag poles will only hold the flag pole securely in windless conditions because the base is not very broad. This problem is simply cured one of two ways:

  • A Broader Base - By having a broader base you can add weights to give the flag pole more support. Some bases are deigned so that you can park your car with one wheel on them giving great stability.
  • A Spiked Base - If your flag holder is going to be based on soil you can have a base with a spike that can be set into the soil. An 18-inch spike is usually plenty to secure a flag pole in a moderate breeze.

It is true to say that you will probably have very few problems with a telescopic flag pole and none that are difficult to prevent.