The Uncommon Usa Telescoping Flagpole (Review)

When it comes to raising the Stars and Stripes, one Minnesota company has been raising the bar since the 1980s. Uncommon USA didn't just join the flagpole industry – they revolutionized it.

Based in the heart of Willmar, Minnesota, where winter winds howl and summer storms test every piece of outdoor equipment, these folks turned the simple act of flag-flying into an art form when they invented the telescoping flagpole, originally designed to honor our fallen veterans with Memorial Flags. It's this blend of innovation and respect for tradition that has made them a standout in an industry where quality often takes a back seat to cost-cutting.

Uncommon's Innovation That Changed the Game

A flagpole that doesn't require an engineering degree to install or a team of strongmen to maintain. That's exactly what Uncommon USA delivered with their crown jewel – the HD Telescoping Flagpole. This isn't your grandfather's flagpole; it's a marvel of modern engineering crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum that laughs in the face of 85 mph winds. The kind of winds that would have traditional flagpoles bending like saplings in a hurricane.

What makes it special? Let's break it down:

Aircraft-grade aluminum construction (6000 series) that's both mighty and light, allowing for easy installation without sacrificing durability
A clever interlocking system with stainless steel locking pins that a child could operate (though we recommend letting adults handle it)
Weather-resistant design that stands tall through whatever Mother Nature throws at it, from desert heat to coastal salt spray
Free-floating harness rings that let your flags spin 360 degrees without turning into a twisted mess, a feature that's particularly appreciated by anyone who's ever had to untangle a wind-wrapped flag at dawn
An anodized finish that doesn't just resist rust and pitting – it thumbs its nose at them, staying pristine year after year with minimal maintenance

Want options? They've got them in spades. The HD series comes in both 20 and 25-foot heights, and you can choose between silver, bronze, or black finishes to match your style. Each pole comes fully loaded with a gold aluminum ball topper, double flag harness, and a premium 4' x 6' nylon U.S. flag with embroidered stars and sewn stripes. It's the kind of attention to detail that makes other flagpole manufacturers nervous.

Uncommon's Most Popular: The HD Telescoping Flagpole

While the HD Telescoping Flagpole might be their chart-topper, Uncommon USA's catalog runs deep. They've got something for every flag-flying scenario you could imagine:

Traditional ground-set flagpoles for the purists who appreciate the classic look
Nautical flagpoles built to withstand the harsh marine environment
Wall-mounted options for space-savers and urban patriots
Solar-powered lighting kits that keep your flag properly illuminated from dusk till dawn
Custom flags and banners for those who want to make a statement beyond the standard offerings
All the accessories you could dream of, from toppers to ground sleeves, each designed with the same attention to detail as their flagship poles

The Uncommon Flagpoles Commitment

Here's where that famous Scandinavian honesty comes into play – every product gets the white-glove treatment at their Minnesota facility before heading out the door. The quality control process is something to behold: each pole is inspected, tested, and adjusted by craftspeople who treat every flagpole like it's going to fly Old Glory in front of their own homes. They're so confident in their work that they back it with a 10-year warranty against manufacturer defects and a 90-day satisfaction guarantee. They'll even replace your pole if someone decides to make off with it (with proper documentation, of course).

Real-World Flagpole Performance:

Talk to anyone who's installed an Uncommon USA flagpole, and you'll hear stories that sound almost too good to be true. Like the Florida resident whose HD Telescoping Flagpole stood firm through a Category 2 hurricane while the neighbor's traditional pole ended up somewhere in the next county. Or the Montana rancher who's had his pole for fifteen years without a single issue, despite temperatures ranging from -40°F to 100°F.

The Future of Flag Flying is Uncommon:

Whether you're a homeowner looking to show your patriotic spirit, a business owner aiming to make a statement, or an event organizer in need of portable pride, Uncommon USA has built their reputation on delivering exactly what you need. They've managed to do something truly uncommon in today's world – combine innovation with old-fashioned quality while keeping prices fair and customer service exceptional. As they continue to innovate and expand their product line, one thing remains constant: their commitment to making sure every flag they help fly does so with dignity, durability, and style.

So next time you see a flag flying high and proud, take a closer look at what's holding it up. Chances are, you're looking at an Uncommon USA flagpole, doing exactly what it was designed to do – standing tall, standing strong, and making sure Old Glory gets the display she deserves. In an age of disposable products and corner-cutting, it's refreshing to find a company that still believes in doing things the right way, the American way.

Uncommon Telescoping Flagpole Installation Overview

If you're looking to show your patriotism by flying Old Glory high in your yard or business, installing one of those beefy telescoping flagpoles from Uncommon USA is a great choice. But properly setting up one of those big flagpoles does take a bit of work. Don't worry though, I'm here to walk you through the flagpole setup process step-by-step and it couldn't be easier!

First Thing, Picking Your Pole:

Uncommon makes their flagpoles out of thick, heavy-duty aluminum so they can extend up to 25 feet in the air without bending or drooping. They come in two sizes: 20' and 25'. The 20' works well for most residential settings. But if you really want to make a statement, go big with the 25' pole!

Once you decide on size, you'll need to pick the right mounting option. Uncommon offers three choices: in-ground, base mount, or wall mount. In-ground is the most secure option but requires digging a 2-3 foot deep hole. The base mount attaches to a heavy concrete footing you'll have to pour. Wall mount, as the name suggests, bolts directly to the wall of a building.

For most homes, the in-ground mount is the best bet. Business owners may prefer a base mount in a prominent location. Wall mounting works great to display flags on structures without yard space.

Prep Work - Marking and Digging:

Okay, you've ordered your flagpole and decided on the mounting method. Once it arrives, the real fun begins! Start by marking the exact spot you want to install it. Use string and wood stakes to outline the hole if going in-ground.

Speaking of the hole, this sucker needs to be deep if your pole is over 15'. For a 20' pole, dig at least 32" down and 20" across. Make it 36-40" deep for the 25' version. This ensures plenty of stability for those high winds whipping your flag around.

Naturally, a hole that deep requires some serious excavation work. You can always hire out this part if needed (may be wise for the 3' deep 25' pole hole!). But if tackling it yourself, bust out that shovel, pick axe and post hole digger tool. Watch for sprinkler lines and other underground utilities too.

Concrete Is The Foundation of Strength:

Now for in-ground mounting, the key is filling the hole with a solid concrete base. This gives immovable footing to your soaring flagpole. Pour a layer of gravel down to pack the bottom. Then fill with concrete up to 4-6 inches below ground level.

For the base mount option, build a 2-3 foot square form with wood boards. Reinforce with rebar, then fill with concrete to make a heavy pad. Allow a full 72 hours for the concrete to fully cure before mounting.

Pole Installation Basics:

The fun really starts when it's time to erect your pole! For in-ground installations, carefully lower the bare aluminum pole into the sleeve found in the concrete filled hole. Have some helping hands to hold it straight while you get the initial set. Position two wood wedges on opposite sides and snug them downward to wedge it in place til the concrete fully sets.

Base mount poles utilize Uncommon's steel Base Plate Stand. Bolt this heavy steel plate to the concrete pad. Then insert the pole and use set screws to lock it in place at the desired height. Wall mount poles use a similar steel bracket lag bolted securely to the building.

Got Any Accessories?

Don't forget to show off Old Glory the right way and outfit your new flagpole per official US flag code protocol. That starts with a gold eagle ornament on top to catch the wind. Snap hooks also make raising and lowering easier than a fixed pulley. And a quality braided rope halyard prevents bindings and fraying.

You'll also need a pole sleeve that fits snugly around the 2" diameter aluminum. These come in a variety of colors if you want to get creative. Of course, pair it with a bright nylon American flag sized right for your pole height too.

HD Telescoping Flagpole Installation Time!

The moment of truth has arrived. You've dug, poured, installed and accessorized this beast of a flagpole. Now it's time for the big finale - raising the stars and stripes up top for all to see!

Start by securely clipping your flag to the halyard snap hooks. Then untangle the rope and make sure it moves freely through the pulley. Have a partner help feed the rope hand-over-hand in unison to lift everything smoothly.

Keep hoisting until Old Glory reaches the top and can fly free. Lock the rope cleat to secure it in place. Then step back and admire that gorgeous sight flapping proudly above. Enjoy that sweeping sense of patriotic accomplishment!

Proper Care and Maintenance

Investing in a super-duty telescoping aluminum flagpole like Uncommon USA builds is a long-term commitment. Following a consistent maintenance routine ensures it lasts for many years to come.

Here are some tips for proper care and upkeep:

- Inspect cleats, pulleys and ropes periodically for signs of wear.
- Replace any frayed ropes right away.
- Check that all hardware remains snugly tightened throughout the seasons.
- Clean off grime or bird droppings with mild detergent and soft cloth.
- Apply a polish made for aluminum to protect the bare pole from oxidation.
- Always lower to half-staff carefully and respectfully per flag code.
- Replace faded or tattered flags with fresh, high-quality American flags.
- Consider lowering in extreme winds or weather to avoid pole damage.

Well there you have it - everything you need to know to install a beefy telescoping flagpole from Uncommon USA! From picking the perfect spot and digging the hole to raising Old Glory up top, I covered all the steps for properly displaying your patriotic pride.

Just take it slow and steady, follow the instructions, and soon that gorgeous stars and stripes will be waving breezily for all to see. Thanks for letting me ramble on about proper flagpole protocol today. Let freedom ring!