porter bros ltd

Manufacturers and suppliers of flags, flagpoles, banners,
bunting, janitorial supplies, ropes, cords and twines.

Useful Information


Click here for frequently asked questions!

WHAT SIZE OF FLAG

The most common proportions for flags are 2:1 and 3:2; in general terms, British and Commonwealth Flags are the former; whilst European and African countries meet the latter proportions. As the size of a flag is measured by its length or fly, and the shorter flagpole breadth is called the hoist, a 3 yard Union Jack is thus made 9 feet long by 4.5 feet wide, whilst the correct size of an Italian flag is 9 feet long by 6 feet wide.

When determining the the correct size of flag for your flagpole, it is necessary to know whether the flagpole is set at groundlevel or on top of a building. A rough guide for ground level mounting is 3 feet length of flag for every 10 feet height of pole; thus a 30 foot flagpole will require a 9 feet long flag. The size can be increased where the flagpole is on top of a building ,but in these circumstances there is no simple guide as the height of the building and overall proportions have to be taken into account. In all cases, it should be ensured that the flag will not catch or rub against any supportings stays, parapets or other obstructions, either when flying or hanging limp on the pole, as this will obviously cause it to wear out very quickly.

There is growing modern trend to copy the popular Continental "portrait" style of advertising flag i.e. having the longest measurement of the flag parallel with the flagpole. This generally means a larger size of flag can be flown than the standard "landscape" pattern, and also the fly edge does not seem to wear as much.

PORTERS will be pleased to give advice should there still be any doubt as to the size and type of flag required.



TAKING CARE OF YOUR FLAG

As with any article, a little thought and attention will help you to get the maximum life from your flag. A few helpful suggestions to this end are given below:

1). Try to take your flag down each night; it cannot be seen and this will appreciably extend its good condition.

2). Always allow the flag to dry thoroughly before folding and storing away.

3). Do not fly your flag in gale force winds - remember that a ship's flag can easily blow out on a single crossing of the Atlantic. If necessary, a smaller "storm" flag should be flown as this will not be so badly affected.

4). Clean your flag regularly; this is important as the dirt and acids in the atmosphere readily attack the synthetic fibres of the cloth. Use only a mild washing powder or detergent. NEVER DRY CLEAN.

5). Inspect the flag on a regular basis for any indication of wear or fraying. At the first sign return it immediately to the manufacturer for repair.

PORTERS maintain a full clean and repair service at a minimal charge, and this is especially beneficial to the more expensive flags that we produce.

Flag Flying Days



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