FAQ's
The flag should be flown on all days when weather permits, especially on legal holidays or special occasions. Often times, the flag is flown from sunrise to sunset on flag poles or buildings. When displaying the flag at night, it should always be properly lite.
Flying the flag at half staff is a sign of mourning and it is the midway point between the top and bottom of the flagstaff. To properly fly the flag at half-staff, the flag should be first hoisted to the peak, then immediately lowered to the half-staff position. It should be raised to the peak again for a moment before it is lowered for the day.
The U.S. flag takes precedence over all other flags when flown within the United States. It should not be flown lower than another flag nor should it be smaller than another flag flown with it. Other flags may, however, be flown at the same height and in the same size. Other national flags should not be smaller or flown lower than the U.S. flag when displayed together. If it is not possible to display two or more national flags at the same height, it is not proper to display them together at all.
The point of honor is on the extreme left from the standpoint of the observer (the flag’s right). The order from left to right of flags flown together is: U.S. flag, other national flags in alphabetical order, state flags, county and city flags, organizational flags and personal flags.
It is not illegal or improper to fly any flag (state, ethnic group, organization, etc.) alone but it is always preferable to display the U.S. flag at the same time.
In a public gathering (lecture hall, church, etc.) the U.S. flag should be to the right of the speakers or on the wall behind them.
The U.S. flag should be in the center of a group of flags only when the center pole is taller than the others or when a fan-like arrangement makes the center pole higher than others.
Displaying the flag with the canton on the left (canton is the blue field with the 50 stars): the canton of the flag should always be to the observers left. Over a street - when the U.S. flag is displayed other than from a staff, it should be displayed flat or suspended so its folds fall free. When displayed over a street, place the union so it faces north or east, depending on the direction of the street.
Displaying a flag on a wall: when displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union should be uppermost and to the flag’s own right, that is to the observer's left. In a window, the union should be to flag’s right when viewed from outside.
Displaying the flag with the canton on the right (canton is the blue field with the 50 stars): display the canton facing right when displayed as a decal on the right side of a vehicle (bus, truck, plane, etc.) or when worn as a patch on the right arm (but use on left arm is preferable).
A salute (hand over heart for those not in uniform) should be rendered when the flag is raised, lowered, or carried by on parade; or when the Pledge of Allegiance is played (unless the flag is not present).
First deciding where the flag will be displayed is key to selecting the proper fabrication. Each fabrication have common uses for them.
Cotton: This is often viewed as the traditional fabrication of the flag. It has a natural feel but is less durable then other fabrication. It is often used for decorative or ceremonial purposes.
Nylon: This fabrication is often one of the most durable and serviceable option. It retains color well, flies nicely in a breeze, dries well and can be easily cleaned.
Polyester: This is a great alternative to the traditional cotton flag. It is a 2-ply spun polyester fabric which is a premium material. It holds up well in windy and harsh conditions. It has a feel of cotton but as a synthetic fabric has the durability of nylon. While it has similar durability of nylon it does not dry quickly when wet.
When choosing the size of your flag, you always want to use the rule of thumb that it should be at least 1/4 of the height of your flag pole. Please see the table below to reference the correct size flag for your flag pole:
| Height of Flag Pole | Proper Flag Size |
| 20' | 3x5' or 4x6' |
| 25' | 4x6' or 5x8' |
| 30' | 5x8' or 6x10' |
| 40'-45' | 6x10' or 8x12' |
| 50' | 8x12' or 10x15' |
| 60'-65' | 10x15' or 10x19' |
| 70'-80' | 10x19' or 12x18' |
| 90'-100' | 20x30' or 30x60' |
Synthetic material flags (Nylon or Polyester) can be easily machined washed in cold water with mild detergent. After cleaning, they should be laid flat to dry.
Natural fiber flags (Cotton or Wool) require greater care. Our flag manufacturers suggest spot cleaning or dry-cleaning these flag fabrications. Try contact your local dry cleaner, many clean U.S. Flags free of charge.
Care:
In order to prevent color and fabrication issues, always make sure flags are completely dry prior to folding to store.
Fly Ends: Watch for the first signs of fraying. Flags can be trimmed and re-hemmed greatly prolonging the life of the flag.
Windy Days: High winds are extremely rough on flags. If at all possible, take down the flag when winds exceed 30 mph.
Rain or Snow: For best results, do not expose your flag to these elements. If exposed, after a heavy rain or snowstorm take down the flag and spread it out to dry. Do not fold or roll up a wet flag.
Air Pollution: To minimize the effects of dirt, air, smoke, car emissions, etc. keep the flag clean. Having two flags and interchanging them is highly recommended to prolong the life of a flag
The Stars and Stripes Flag Store accepts flags for retirement. We work with local American Legion and VFW Posts to ensure flags are properly disposed through a burning ceremony. If you are not in the Rochester area, reach out to your local Veteran, Boy Scout, or Civic organization to see if they accept flags for retirement ceremonies.
Our main flag vendors, Valley Forge, Atlas, and Eder, are all headquartered and manufacture their flags in the United States. All American Flags sold in our store are 100% American Made.