Since Americans began flying the flag in 1876, telescoping flagpole underwent many changes. Before the industrial revolution, flagpoles could only be made of wood. Although some US companies specialize in Rustic venues, others still use this method of making flagpoles. However, most flagpole manufacturers today use more durable materials to create longer-lasting flagpoles.

Carpenters would cut straight trees by hand to create the first flagpoles. These trees would then be shaped using whittling and sanding until they reached a smooth finish. To preserve the wood, animal fat was used as a preservative. The entire pole was then rubbed for several days with the fat. These poles may last for up to 50 years if properly cared for by an expert. These flagpoles were attractive but they could rot at their base. If there is no ground spike to insulate, it can also be a lightening conductor. They may then burn down or become split by the lightening.

Steel tubes and the masts of ships were used to make flagpoles during the turn century. The older wooden poles that had been processed became less popular. Following the 1929 stock market crash, steel shafts were used to pile drive and cargo booms on large ships. This was the inspiration for a growing number flagpole manufacturers. This type of smooth and tapered steel flagpole was dominant for more than 20 year. The next evolution of the flagpole was perhaps the most popular. Aluminum was the best material for flagpoles. Aluminum is the most important component of the flagpole market today.

Aluminum exhibits many distinct characteristics. These properties allow it to undergo molecular changes, allowing it to produce different products for different uses. 6063 is the most popular aluminum alloy for flagpole fabrication. This alloy flagpoles are extruded tubes or pipe. All must be manufactured in compliance with ASTM B241, “Aluminum Alloy Sealing Pipe and Seamless Extruded Tube.” The temper rating of this alloy is T6, which is the hardest, and most of these poles have been heat treated. This temper rating results in an amazing level of minimum stress at just 25,000 pounds per sq inch and an acceptable design stress for tubes at 18,000 pounds per sq inch.