What is the proper way to light the American flag? We’re about to tell you. Since 1777 the American flag has represented our nation’s honor, strength, freedom and pride. Therefore, it is of great importance to display the American flag in accordance with the flag lighting code and protect its integrity.
According to the U.S. Flag code, it is universal custom to raise the flag at dawn and lower it at dusk. But if you choose to display the American flag at night, it should be properly illuminated.
Most homeowners tend to use a single lighting fixture which is usually too narrow to properly illuminate the flag and ends up lighting the pole, defeating the purpose of calling attention to the flag itself. For the American flag to be properly illuminated two or more lighting fixtures is required, depending on the height of the pole as well as the size of the flag. Ideally, each fixture should produce 150 lumens with a narrow beam. In addition, the lighting fixtures should be installed around 3 feet from the flag pole and aimed at the ball at the top of the pole. This arrangement will allow the lights to spread and illuminate the flag itself, no matter which way the wind blows.
Most residential flag poles have a height of about 20 feet. Low-voltage halogen or LED lighting is ideal for this height. Flags up to 4 x 6 feet can typically be lit with just two fixtures and flags up to 6 x 10 feet should be illuminated with three fixtures.
Your landscape lighting professional (Southern Lights of NC) can show you the best arrangement to highlight your flag at night and give it the attention and respect it deserves while you show your patriotism.
Credit: Legion.org
Located in Summerfield, NC Southern Lights- Architectural and Landscape Lighting serves properties and property management companies throughout the state of NC including Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Raleigh, Charlotte, High Point, Jamestown, Burlington, Reidsville, Oak Ridge, Brown Summit, etc.
Southern Lights has installed hundreds of outdoor landscape lighting systems and carries more certifications than anyone in the state. With attention to detail and a solid knowledge of design, Southern Lights is the leading outdoor landscape lighting firm in the state of NC. See why our clients choose us. Contact us today by web (online form) or phone 336-451-4969.
