20 ft Presidential Telescoping Flagpole — In-Ground Residential

The Presidential is the heavy-duty option in the residential telescoping flagpole category. Built in Minnesota by Uncommon USA, it uses thicker aluminum walls, machined aluminum ring collars (not stamped or plastic), and push-button section locks designed to last. If you've had a cheap telescoping pole stick, corrode, or wobble in the wind, this is the upgrade.

The 20 ft height is the most popular residential size — tall enough to look proper in front of a two-story home, short enough to install without specialized equipment.

What's Included

• 20 ft telescoping flagpole, anodized silver finish
• PVC ground sleeve for in-ground installation
• Four (4) aluminum swivel ring collars with stainless clips
• 3" gold anodized aluminum ball top
• 3x5 ft stitched and embroidered nylon American flag

You won't need to source a ground sleeve separately — it's in the box.

Specifications

• Height: 20 ft above ground
• Base diameter: 2.5"
• Wall thickness: 16-gauge aluminum
• Finish: Anodized silver (matte, low-glare)
• Flag capacity: One 4x6 ft flag, or two 3x5 ft flags
• Operation: Push-button section locks, no halyard
• Warranty: 10 years (manufacturer)
• Made in: USA by Uncommon USA

About the Wind Rating

This pole does not carry a manufacturer's wind rating. In typical residential conditions it handles winds in the 60–70 mph range, but Uncommon USA does not publish a guaranteed rating for telescoping poles — the telescoping mechanism is the limiting factor, not the aluminum itself.

Why Telescoping vs. One-Piece

Two styles, two different priorities:

Flying Two Flags or Half-Staff

The Presidential includes a double flag harness — four ring clips instead of two. You can fly two 3x5 ft flags simultaneously (the U.S. flag on top, a second flag below), or use the lower set of clips to fly a single flag at half-staff without lowering the pole itself.

For half-staff etiquette and automatic alerts when the President or Governor orders flags lowered, sign up for our half-staff notifications.

Pairs Well With

Installation Overview

The included PVC ground sleeve is set in concrete with a gravel/crushed rock base for drainage. Once the concrete cures, the flagpole drops into the sleeve and locks into position — not permanently installed, so the pole can be removed for storms or seasonal storage.

Materials you'll need

• Telescoping flagpole and PVC ground sleeve (included with this kit)
• Approximately 3–5 60 lb bags of concrete mix
• Crushed rock or coarse gravel
• Measuring tape or yardstick
• Contractor's level
• Container for mixing concrete

Procedure

1. Dig a hole approximately 6 times the diameter of the flagpole and 4" deeper than the length of the ground sleeve. A larger hole may be required in light soils.
2. Place a bed of crushed rock or gravel at the base of the hole.
3. Verify the stop bolt extends fully through the ground sleeve — this keeps the flagpole off the gravel base.
4. Place crushed rock or gravel in and around the sleeve to a height of 2" above the base of the sleeve for drainage.
5. Mix concrete per the manufacturer's instructions.
6. Pour concrete around the sleeve to approximately 2" from ground level. Do not allow concrete to enter the sleeve. Alternate: pour to ground level and finish flush to create a mow strip.
7. Place the flagpole into the sleeve and level it. Once the sleeve is level, carefully remove the flagpole — make sure the sleeve position isn't disturbed.
8. Let the concrete cure for at least 24 hours before installing the flagpole. Place a warning marker or object near the hole during curing.
9. After 24 hours, install the flagpole and pack dirt or landscape material around the sleeve for a finished appearance.

When the flagpole is removed for storage, use the included plastic cap on the ground sleeve to keep dirt and debris out.

Optional anti-theft pin lock: Uncommon USA offers a polycarbonate pin lock that covers the release button on the bottom section and locks with a nut and bolt or small padlock. The pole must be fully raised to use it. Contact us if you'd like to add a pin lock to your order.

Made in the USA

Uncommon USA manufactures the Presidential pole at their facility in Minnesota — aluminum extrusion, machining, anodizing, and assembly all done domestically. The included American flag is also made in the USA. Read more about our commitment to American-made products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this flagpole come with a ground sleeve?

Yes. The PVC ground sleeve is included in the kit, along with the pole, four ring collars, ball top, and a 3x5 ft American flag.

What is the wind rating?

This pole does not carry a published manufacturer wind rating. In normal residential conditions it typically handles 60–70 mph winds, but if you need a guaranteed rating we recommend a single-piece in-ground flagpole instead.

Can I fly two flags at once?

Yes. The included double flag harness has four ring clips, so you can fly two 3x5 ft flags simultaneously, or use the lower position to fly a single flag at half-staff.

How is this different from a sectional flagpole?

Telescoping poles raise and lower by sliding sections in and out and locking with push buttons — no halyard or rope. Sectional poles use a traditional halyard and pulley with a more traditional appearance. Telescoping is easier to operate and has no rope to replace over time.

Can I lubricate the telescoping sections?

No. Uncommon USA specifically prohibits lubricants of any kind — silicone, WD-40, grease, or oil. Lubricants attract dirt and dust into the section joints and damage the locking mechanism. Clean only with soap and water. Using lubricants may void the warranty.

Is the flag included, and can I upgrade it?

A 3x5 ft stitched and embroidered nylon American flag is included. If you'd prefer a heavier-duty flag (polyester for high-wind areas) or a larger 4x6 ft flag, browse our American flag options and we'll swap or add to your order.

Questions?

We've been selling and installing flagpoles since 1993, and we're happy to help you figure out whether this is the right pole for your situation — or whether you'd be better served by a one-piece pole. Use our contact form to reach us with questions.