It is quite usual to find different commercial flag poles being sold, particularly in hardware shops and specialty stores. There are two general types being offered, namely the internal rope system and the external rope system.
The big change among the two types is the position of the rope system on the flag. The internal type features a rope system built within the pole. This is best for flags that are set up outdoors and are constantly withstanding fleeting weather conditions. This is also good for locations where the flag might be exposed to extreme conditions that constantly change every time. Since the rope is protected by the pole itself, it is expected to stay strong and intact. Even with the presence of heavy rains and winds, the flag stays up.
Flag poles featuring an external rope system are typically preferred for locations where the weather is expected not to change much from day to day. External types are more common compared to the internal rope system.
However, it reveals the vital components to external conditions like sunlight, wind and water. The possibility of the rope system to decline over time quickly is greater. The flags are also easier to steal or be taken advantage of because of the exposed mechanism, allowing unscrupulous individuals to easily acquire the flag. Its outdoor location also proves to be a weakness for theft.
There are more advantages to an internal rope system compared to its external counterpart. The final choice for a flag pole is still yours, based on the specific purpose and budget.