Deciding on a new flag can come with its own set of questions and curious ponderings. Questions like, what kind of flag do I get? Which fabric is better for the outdoors? Which one is going to give me the longest lifespan? Which one is the most economical? Well, sit back as I break down the difference between nylon and polyester and answer these questions that are rattling around in that pretty head of yours.
We have a handy little comparison table above that breaks down some of our more popular flags. We cover the overall flyability and durability of the flag, along with prices and a size guideline.
Where is your new Flag going to be?
When considering a new flag, you should take into account where your new flag is going to be. This is going to apply to whether or not it is going to be indoors or outdoors, the flagpole it is going to be on, and the location.
Do you want an Indoor or Outdoor Flag?
Deciding whether or not your flag is going to be indoors or outdoors is a decision entirely up to you. You may have the perfect spot in mind in your front or back yard to place it, or you may have a corner of a room or a wall you want to display it from. Either way, you can find the right flag that fits your specific needs.
What type of flag is best for outdoors? Easy, the All-Weather Flag
Sewn nylon flags also known as all-weather flags are lightweight and some of our customers' favorite flags to use outdoors. These flags fly with little wind and in the slightest breeze. They look fantastic with their bright and vivid colors and come in at about the middle of the road as far as price is concerned.
What flag material is best for high winds, the Most Durable and Heavy-Duty?
Sewn Polyester flags are the best flags to use in areas that receive high winds. They are the strongest and most durable fabrics we carry with the longest lifespan out of all the flag materials. These are a great option and the best choice if you plan on keeping your flag up 24/7. Sewn polyester flags still have good color, but have a more coarse texture than nylon and will require more wind to see them, "fly." Along with being the most heavy-duty of all our flags, these also come with the heaviest price tag.
What if I want an indoor flag?
Printed Polyester Flagsare the most economical flag of all the different kinds. They are also the prime choice for those looking for an inexpensive, indoor flag. They offer an attractive and simple solution at a low cost, ensuring no matter what your bank account says, you can get that flag you have been eyeing up.
Cotton flags are made from densely woven heavy cotton fabric. Although neither nylon nor polyester, cotton flags do have rich and vibrant colors and make for wonderful flags for an indoor display. They also come equipped with sewn stripes and embroidered stars giving them a little extra gusto. It should be noted that cotton flags are not recommended for outdoor display.
The size of your flagpole
Just as you wouldn't want to wear clothes that are too big or too small for your body, you also don't want to make the same mistake with your flag. An oversized flag on a smaller flagpole just looks off and not well thought out, while a flag too small can leave everyone who sees it wondering, "What were they thinking?" To help take the guesswork out of what size flag you should consider for your size of flagpole, our Flag Buying Guide is the ticket to get you started. Most flags should wind up being approximately a third to one-quarter the size of the flagpole it is on. This means that for most flagpoles measuring 15ft and even up to 25ft tall, a 3ft by 5ft flag is going to be the right choice for you.
As you can tell, nylon and polyester both have their own advantages and disadvantages when it comes to where they are being displayed and in what applications or environments they are going to be used. Sewn nylon is an all-around great choice for an outdoor flag. However, you may want to consider a sewn polyester flag for areas that receive heavier winds and constant 24/7 use. Printed polyester is the least expensive and a good decision if cost is a concern and it is being used indoors. As an option, the cotton flag throws its hat in the ring as a great-looking indoor flag as well.
To buy American Flags Made in the USA
Don't forget to check out all of our Made in the U.S.A. American Flags. We offer flags from some of the largest and oldest brands in the business such as Annin Flagmakers and the primary supplier to the United States government, Valley Forge. We also carry our own brand of flags under the Super Tough moniker which rivals that of the previously mentioned, Annin and Valley Forge.
What is the standard flag size?
The standard size and most common flag size is 3ft by 5ft.
What size flag for a house?
For most houses that are one story in height, a flagpole of 15 to 20ft is recommended. A 3ft by 5ft size flag is the size recommended for this size of flagpole. Ergo, for most houses, a 3ft by 5ft sized flag is the correct size for most homes and houses.