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Steps for Hanging a U.S. Flag:
The U.S. Flag Code is a set of regulations for displaying the American flag. Citizens are not required by law to follow these regulations, but Kevin and Nathan agree that following them is a great way to show pride for the flag.
Flag Rules Homeowners Should Know
- The flag should not be flown during bad weather, unless an all-weather flag is used.
- The flag should not be displayed at night, unless it is properly lit.
- The flag should be hung in a way that the union (the blue section with the 50 stars) is always in the top left corner of the flag.
- If the flag is torn or damaged in a way that’s beyond repair, it should be destroyed “with dignity.” Most recommend burning it, starting from the Union. If you’re not comfortable doing this, most local Boy Scout troops or American Legion groups will do it for you.
How to Mount a Flag
- Screw a flag bracket against the wall using a drill driver and some weather rated screws.
- Nathan prefers to use an adjustable flag bracket, which makes it easier to display the flag at the exact right angle for the building.
- If the flag needs to be mounted to siding, they sell a mounting plate with a cleat that can be screwed through the plate, through the siding, and into the sheathing of the building. Then, the flag bracket can be mounted to the plate.
- Insert the flag pole into the flag bracket and hand tighten the bracket.
Resources:
The mounting block Nathan demonstrated that works well for vinyl siding is a surface mounting block, which is manufactured by Ply Gem and can be found at most home centers.
The flag kit and various other mounting brackets Nathan demonstrated in the segment can all also be found at home centers.
If you are looking to retire a U.S. flag and don’t feel comfortable burning it yourself, Nathan suggests contacting your local American Legion post or Boy Scouts of America troop to do it for you.
To learn more about the U.S. Flag Code, visit USA.gov/flag.
