FAQ's
1 Flag Availability
1.1 Why are many flags on backorder

As you can imagine there are a wide variety of flags and sizes available. Unfortunately, we do not have the space for all of them but can always order them. We can order any item that is listed out of stock and you can receive it in about two weeks. 

 

2 Flag Etiquette
2.1 When should I display my United States Flag?

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.

2.2 What is half staff and when should I fly my flag at it?

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. 

2.3 How should I fly my United States Flag?

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).

 

3 Where to begin when selecting a new flag.
3.1 Whats the best type of fabrication for a flag?

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. 

 

3.2 How do I know what size flag to choose for my flag pole?

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'
4 Care, Replacement and Retirement of Flags
4.1 How do I properly care and clean my flag?

Cleaning

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

4.2 How long should my flag last when flowen outside?
It all depends on how often you are flying your flag and the weather conditions it is flown in. When flown from dawn until dusk in good weather conditions, you can expect for the flag to last around 3 months. When properly carrying for your flag, it can extend the life of the flag.
4.3 How do I know when to replace my flag?
A flag should be replaced when it reaches a condition which is not befitting as the symbol of the United States. Compare it to your clothing, if it is something you wouldn't wear then do not fly it.
4.4 How do I properly retire my flag?

The Stars and Stripes Flag Store accepts flags for retirement. We work with local Boy Scout Troops 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 Troop or Civic organization to see if they accept flags for retirement ceremonies.

You can drop off your flag at ecopark, (Monroe County) location is 10 Avion Drive, Rochester, NY 14624, hours Wed 1pm-6:30pm, Sat 7:30am-1pm. Closed on Holidays The park will properly retire the flags, and no need to drive far. 

 

5 Our Flag Manufacturers
5.1 Where are your flags made?

Our two main flag vendors, Valley Forge and Eder are headquartered and manufacture their flags in the United States.

Valley Forge was founded in 1882 originally as a burlap bag business. During the Depression Era, the company evolved to meet the increasing demand for United States Flags. This marked the beginning to the Valley Forge Flag Brand. They are headquartered in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania and manufacturer their flags in facilities throughout South Carolina. 

Eder Flag Manufacturing Co. was founded in 1887, at first the company focused on making pillows, felt pennants, rag dolls and hunting jackets. In 1903, the flag-making business began over time, and the company added a variety of flags, flag poles and accessories to its product line. Today, the company is employee owned and previously owned for a half a century by Eugene Eder. Eugene Eder, a son of one of the founding brothers and a World War II Navy Veteran. The company is headquartered and manufactures its flags in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.