Is it OK to Fly Your American Flag in the Rain?

Flying the American flag is a great way to show your patriotism and love for our great country. It’s common to see different flag displays in front of homes, offices, hospitals, churches, and more. 

While you can’t deny how beautiful it is to see our national flag flying high, it raises the question, “Is it ok to fly the American flag in the rain?” 

The short answer: it depends. Although some flags are crafted to withstand outdoor weather, others are not. In this article, we’ll discuss the proper flag etiquette laid out in the U.S. Flag Code, along with the different materials used to make flags, to help you know when to keep your flag atop the flagpole or when to bring it inside. 

Are you unsure which flag best suits your needs? Take our quick Flag Quiz or browse the impressive selection of indoor and outdoor American flags from AmericanFlags.com, the leading supplier of flags and accessories proudly made in the USA. 

When Can I Fly My American Flag in the Rain? 

Along with the United States Flag Code, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs clearly lays out Guidelines for Display of the Flag based on Public Law 94-344. When it comes to flying the flag of the United States, “The flag should not be subject to weather damage, so it should not be displayed during rain, snow and wind storms unless it is an all-weather flag.” 

So what is an all-weather flag? An all-weather flag is crafted from an ultra-durable fabric like polyester or nylon and is made to resist fading, fraying, or tearing. They dry quickly and can withstand the sun, rain, snow, and wind. 

What Materials Are All-Weather Flags Made From? 

When flying the Stars and Stripes outdoors, you want to make sure it is durable enough to withstand typical weather. The best way to do this is by flying an all-weather flag. 

So, what makes these ensigns durable enough to withstand outdoor weather? It all comes down to their materials. Typically, all-weather flags are made from either nylon or polyester, which boast exceptional weather-resistant properties. 

When it comes to heavier rain, polyester has a slight advantage, with 30% better color retention than nylon, so the colors are less likely to bleed. The tightly woven fibers in nylon make it exceptional for resisting tearing and fraying, while polyester has superior UV light resistance. 

Nylon is a lighter-weight fabric than polyester and is often more affordable. However, due to its thickness, polyester flags may last longer in areas with high winds, which may help justify their higher price tag. 

When it comes to cleaning, both materials are relatively low maintenance. Nylon is a popular choice for decorative displays and bunting thanks to its silky appearance, but there are finishes you can add to polyester to give it a similar sheen. The flag material you choose depends on where you live, the typical weather in your region, and whether you plan to lower it during bad weather. 

We couldn’t talk about flag materials without mentioning cotton. U.S. cotton flags are a great choice for indoor displays and short outdoor appearances like parades. Many organizations, like the American Legion, use cotton flags for special events and holidays like Veterans Day, Independence Day, and Memorial Day. 

While cotton creates a timeless look, it shouldn’t be used outdoors since the material is highly porous and prone to fraying and tearing. 

Check out two of our most popular all-weather flags, the Outdoor Beacon® Nylon American Flag and the Annin Tough-Tex Heavy-Duty American Flag. Each one is crafted from the finest materials and built to last the test of time. 

Can I Fly My Flag in Inclement Weather? 

When it comes to displaying the U.S. Flag, there are many rules outlined in the flag code like ensuring the blue field is always on the observer’s left or the flag’s own right or hoisting it to the top of the flagpole before lowering it to half-staff. When it comes to flying the American flag in inclement weather, the Department of Defense is very clear: you should never fly the U.S. flag in bad weather. 

These conditions include hurricanes, flash floods, tornadoes, and blizzards. Doing so could shorten the flag’s lifespan or even make it tear in half. To avoid having to buy a new flag too soon, use your best judgement to lower it when the weather turns and store in a cool, dry location. 

Buy Your All-Weather Flags from AmericanFlags.com 

AmericanFlags.com is proud to offer the largest selection of all-weather flags. We stock ensigns from the best brands, including Annin, Eder, Valley Forge, Carrot-Top Flags and more. Each flag is crafted from premium materials and is perfect for any outdoor display. We also offer a wide variety of indoor, specialty, stick, and state flags that are perfect for homes, offices, schools, lobbies, and churches. 

As the leading supplier of American-made flags and accessories, we’re happy to provide our customers with superior products at affordable prices. Contact our friendly Customer Care Team today for help choosing your next flag or with any questions you may have. Experience the American-made difference with the most trusted name for top-quality ensigns, AmericanFlags.com.