How To Install a Telescoping Flagpole

How To Install a Telescoping Flagpole

Posted by Hayley Adams on Feb 10th 2022

Flagpole installation is a great project for intermediate DIYers. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can raise the flag of your choice in your yard all on your own.

This guide will show you how to install a flagpole and includes some tips and ticks on choosing a location for your flagpole and how to ensure a smooth process.

Pro Tip: Before you start digging, find out where utility lines may be buried.

What You’ll Need

  1. Telescoping flagpole
  2. Ground sleeve
  3. Ball ornament
  4. Solar Light (optional)
  5. Your Choice of Flag
  6. Flagpole Setting Compound & Concrete Alternative
  7. Safety glasses
  8. Utility knife
  9. Torpedo level
  10. Posthole digger or narrow shovel

Where to Place Your Flagpole

First, you will want to select a location for your telescoping flagpole. A good rule of thumb is to place it at least 3 times the fly length of your selected flag and make sure you are far enough away from trees, buildings, or any other structures.

Installation Instructions

Start off by digging your hole approximately 9 inches in diameter and 28 inches in depth. Place a small amount of loose rock or gravel in the base of the hole and place your ground sleeve in the hole with the arrow pointing upwards. You will know it’s in the correct position when you see the red cap on top.

Once your ground sleeve is in position, grab your torpedo level so you can make sure your pole will stand straight and not slanted. Place your level on top of the ground sleeve and ensure both plans are level, adjusting as needed, before moving on to the next step.

Once your all level, grab your concrete alternative compound and put on the gloves provided. Follow the instructions on the packaging to prepare your compound for use. When the compound is ready, pour all of the contents from the bag into the hole around the ground sleeve, being careful not to shift the ground sleeve. You’ll want to keep your torpedo level on the ground sleeve as your compound sets, adjusting the sleeve as necessary for the next 10 minutes to ensure the ground sleeve stays true to vertical.

Pro Tip: Allow the compound to set for an additional 15-30 minutes before completing the next steps.

Once the compound has finished setting, fill the remaining space with loose dirt to cover the exposed compound. You can now remove the red cap from the ground sleeve and slide the large end of the telescoping shaft into the tube until it feels secure.

Once the pole is in place, you are ready to install the ball ornament to the top of the pole. If you purchased solar light, be sure to place the light between the ball ornament and the top of the flagpole. Use the

Now you can install your flag or flags using the ring clips on the swivel rings on the flagpole.

Time to raise your pole! Start extending the first section of the pole until it stops and turn it to the right, slowly letting it rest in its locking position. Repeat with the 2nd and 3rd sections of the pole shaft until your flagpole is fully raised.