Some tips for showing your colors

The higher the pole, the shorter the flag's life.
Although an aluminum flagpole will endure for many seasons, the flag flying at the top of the pole probably will not.
Chris Tewksbury, of The Flag Pole Repair Co. in Sebring, said sewn and embroidered nylon flags last the longest but are most expensive.
Large nylon flags can cost hundreds of dollars, but smaller ones can be bought for less than $100.
Cotton flags with the stars and stripes printed on them cost less but fade fast.
"I don't recommend cotton flags or printed flags because they will start to fade in as little as five months," Tewksbury said.
If a flag flies night and day, 365 days a year, it probably won't last very long no matter what material it's made of.
"A flag that is never taken down has a lifespan of about a year. After that it will show signs of wear and tear," Becherer said.
Although flags are exposed to the elements, W.B. Becherer, of Modernfold W.B. Becherer Inc., said fading is usually the biggest problem, not filth and grime
"The higher the flagpole, the faster the flag will fade and wear out," Becherer said, adding, "It's a shame to fly a flag that's tattered. It should be taken down."
Bad weather
Tewksbury recommends lowering flags during stormy weather, and if a light does not illuminate a flagpole, the flag must be taken down after dark.
"It's a law that a flag flying at night must have a light shining on it," Tewksbury said.
Disposing of a weatherworn flag is also a delicate matter.
"The proper way to dispose of it is to bury it or burn it," Becherer said. "Some organizations, like the Boy Scouts, will come out and take care of it for you."
Tewksbury said members of local American Legions often have flag burning ceremonies where several flags are properly disposed of at one time.