Flash Collars

Today, we are talking about flash collars. What is the function of the flash collar? I guess you could call it Flash Collar Friday! It is possibly the most confusing non-essential  component to a complete outdoor flag display. So where do you start? Here...

What is a flash collar and what does it do?
Let's begin by defining a flash collar from the Flagpole Glossary:

Flash Collar: A collar for the base of the flagpole that is made of spun aluminum or fiberglass. The collar fits over the ground sleeve and bottom of the flagpole to protect it from the elements. It gives the base of the flagpole a finished look. See Flagpole Flash Collars.

So, essentially, the flagpole flash collar functions in two parts. It "fits over the ground sleeve and bottom of the flagpole to protect it from the elements" and "gives the base of the flagpole a finished look." While both of these statements are generally true, the main function of the flash collar is the latter. The flash collar help finish the pole, so as to not show the corrugated steel foundation sleeve. As far as protection goes, this is not absolutely necessary, nor does it significantly impact the life of the flagpole.

If the flagpole is located in a garden or behind a plaque, the flash collar may not be necessary. But if the flagpole is exposed, a flash collar can go a long way to finish the look of the pole. In addition, it does contribute to water run off, which protects the flagpole from stain.

How to find the right size flash collar
Flash collars have three dimensions which are invaluable for your flagpole. You can figure out which flash collar you need by measuring the base diameter of your flagpole, the diameter of your foundation sleeve, and the exposed height of the foundation sleeve. Knowing these dimensions will lead you to the following:

1. Inside diameter of the flash collar
2. Outside diameter of the flash collar
3. The height of the flash collar

You want a flash collar that will fit the flagpole base snugly, be wide enough to cover the foundation sleeve completely and tall enough to rise above the exposed height of the foundation sleeve. On this page, you can search through standard flash collars and narrow by these three deminsions.

Finally, choose a flagpole which matches the color of your flagpole.

Why do you need to replace a flash collar?
The truth is... you don't. But over the years, flash collars take a beating from lawn mowers, cars, sprinklers, bikes, etc. They can become stained, dented, and/or scratched. If you have to replace the hardware up top (flagpole truck or ball top), you can take the right size flash collar up with you and run it down the flagpole. Much like a very crazy game of rings. If you don't have to go up top, you can get what is called a split collar. This collar comes in two sections and can be screwed together.