Outdoor Flags: What Is the Best Material?
Even the best outdoor flag material has it rough. They have to withstand the rigors of the elements: sunlight, rain, wind, snow, and even random debris that happens to fall or blow their way. And that’s why the flag’s material is so important!
Now, there’s no single “right” material for a flag, of course. The right one for you is simply the one that’ll apply itself best to your circumstances. Even a well-made flag can be the wrong one if the fabric is unsuitable for your needs.
On that note, let’s explore the three most common fabrics to help you discover which one is right for you!
Outdoor Flag Material: Cotton
Cotton is a natural fabric that has been used to make flags for centuries. While man-made fibers often appear shiny or glossy, cotton is much more subtle and soft with a flatter appearance. As such, cotton flags are most commonly used for reenactments and historical demonstrations, as they provide that “authentic” look.
Pros:
- Historically accurate
- Washable
- Recyclable
Cons:
- Can shrink
- Decomposes faster than nylon or polyester
- Absorbs moisture and is slow to dry out
- Wrinkles quickly
- Insects and mildew can cause damage
For traditional ceremonies such as a burial service or Civil War reenactment, cotton will be best, but it’s not a great choice for a flag that’ll fly outdoors every day!
Outdoor Flag Material: Polyester
Unlike cotton, polyester is a synthetic material and is primarily petroleum-based. It’s breathable yet strong and is the best of the three materials at withstanding harsh weather and sunlight.
Pros:
- Incredibly durable; resists cold, heat, sunlight, mold, and pests
- Withstands wrinkling
- Holds up against tears and abrasions
- Doesn’t stain easily
- Highly elastic
- Washable
Cons:
- Takes hundreds of years to decompose
- Heavy; won’t billow in the breeze
- Creates toxic fumes when melted or burnt
- Generates static electricity easily, attracting debris and lint
- More expensive than other fabrics
When you need a flag to withstand strong wind and extreme weather, polyester is the fabric for you. Generally speaking, it’ll be pricier, but its long-lasting durability will pay for itself.
Nylon
Originally invented in 1935 by DuPont, nylon is a synthetic material akin to polyester. It has a similarly shinier appearance than cotton but is lighter and better at flowing in a gentle wind than polyester.
Pros:
- Better at resisting sunlight, wind, and temperature extremes than cotton
- Withstands rips, abrasions, tears, and decomposition
- Strong against insects and mold
- High elasticity
- Recyclable
- Washable
- Cheaper than polyester
Cons:
- Can take up to 40 years to decompose
- Produces toxic fumes when melted or burned
Thanks to the strength of nylon, it’s perfect for flags that need to fly all day, every day. And since it’s lighter than polyester, it doesn’t require strong winds to fly, either!
Find Your Perfect Flag at Elmer’s Flag
When you’re searching for the right flag, go to the experts! Elmer’s Flag will help you understand which material and size is the one you need. Contact us today!