A flagpole is a central part of any nation’s military, civil and naval insignia. Flagpoles serve as a common device to support national flags and signifying devices such as the coat of arms or state flag.
They are typically erected in prominent places like in front of government buildings, embassies, and other places. The standard for the design of national flagpoles is set by international agreement through the use of recommendations for varying lengths at different heights in different countries, not necessarily by law. The term ‘flagpole’ is general and applies to the vertical pole that supports a flag for display. Flagpoles come in many different forms including freestanding, roof-mounted, or attached to a wall or building. The most common form is the free-standing tapered metal, wooden, or metal pole.
The finial is the tip of the flagpole that holds the flag. Flags can be attached to a pole through cords, clips or an internal mechanism called a pulley system.
Flagpoles usually have a large brass or gold-colored metal ball and are often topped with crowns, balls, finials, or small flags.
Common materials for flagpoles include aluminum, steel, and fiberglass. Aluminum is often used for flagpoles up to five meters tall and does not corrode at high altitudes.
