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High winds ruin Flags
Flags will literally explode- depending on the airspeed. A 300 Mile per hour gust, quite possible on top of a mountain or with a tall flagpole will shred a flag in seconds. When you hear a sharp, snapping sound, your flag is about to be toast. Don't fly flags during windspeeds exceeding 50 Mph.
Rain is tough on Flags
Rain will wash out the color on any flag. A heavy flag will also take a worse beating than one that is kept dry. Use your smarts... if it's gray and windy, don't fly the flag.
Don't fly a dirty Flag
It is good practice to keep your flags clean. Keeping your flags free from dirt can greatly improve the flags life. Dirt is sharp, it cut's fabric, it dulls colors and causes wear. Most outdoor flags can be washed in a mild detergent. Rinse them thoroughly. Parade flags should be dry cleaned.
Do not store wet Flags
Sometimes you will face the dilemma of having to get your flag out of the rain. Do not bunch up the flag and let it sit wet. Mildew and other great things shall grow exponentially. Hang up the flag as you would a nice shirt.Wet folds can turn into permanent creases...
Flags suffer from air pollution
Dirt, smoke, exhaust or dust can cause your flag to age before their time. Some exhaust - such as that of nearby factories can actually destroy flag material. Please fight Air-Pollution in your neighborhoods.
Contact with gasoline or oil
Petroleum products are hazardous to Nylon materials. It is wise to keep your flags away from all Oil and Gasoline. Marine flags are especially susceptible to damage by petroleum products.Do not handle your flags with greasy hands.
Pole paint and metallic oxides
Pole care is related to flag care. Rusty, pock marked poles chafe and tear flag fabric and stitching. Rust and scale cause permanent stains. Rust actually eats holes into the flags. Inspect your flagpoles.
Beware! Chemicals hurt flags
Do not store your flag next to an assortment of chemicals. Many people collect paints, solvents, home-improvement stuff in their basements. Flags can decompose in just slight amounts of chemical vapor. Allow your flags room to breathe.
No excuse for neglected frays
Give your flag the attention it deserves. Watch the corners of your flag. If they begin to show signs of wear, they can be re-hemmed by trimming off the worn hem and running it along a sewing-machine - See your seamstress... This is acceptable alternative to save an otherwise perfect flag.
What do I do with my old U.S. Flag?
You can find more information about what to do with the U.S. Flag as it wears down in Etiquette.
Generally, If a Flag has deteriorated, it is put to rest through burning in respectful fashion. You may wish to check with one of your local military organizations such as the VFW, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, Organization of Vietnam Veterans, or your local Marine Core League to name a few. These organizations represent the essence of what our flag stands for and made a substantial investment in its defense.
More in Flag Etiquette.
