Installing light poles on public or private property involves collaborating with manufacturers. Poles are typically available in custom dimensions and features optimized for specific applications, which may include integrating traffic signs and surveillance systems. Before working with a manufacturer, ask questions relating to project details, technical requirements, and design specifications. Here are a few FAQs about collaborating with pole manufacturers:
Can I Get Custom Poles?
Light pole manufacturers offer products with standard dimensions and finishes. They also support customization to help you meet unique project needs. Some manufacturers can deliver light poles with custom heights, materials, colors, designs, and mounting accessories. Height customization allows you to meet local codes and project requirements.
Airport installations often require taller poles with higher load-bearing capacity, while urban city developers may opt for decorative poles. Steel is the ideal choice for modern installations due to its strength, but alternatives include concrete and wooden poles. The design and mounting accessories depend on your unique requirements for the intended application.
Some installations involve smart city features, such as motion sensors, CCTV, solar panels, and EV charging outlets. Share your detailed project requirements with the manufacturer and ask them if they can deliver the type of pole you need. Include these details:
- Pole height and base design
- Mounting brackets and arm length
- Finish coatings and decorations
- Wind load and environmental conditions
- Custom features
What is the Turnaround Timeframe?
Light pole manufacturers have varying capacities and demand, which affects their delivery timeframes. When installing poles, you’re likely working under a strict timeline. Ask the manufacturer how long it will take to manufacture and deliver the poles to your installation site. The timeline depends on various factors, including the size of your order and the level of customization you need.
Some manufacturers offer standard, off-the-shelf poles that can be ordered for immediate delivery. Check the manufacturer’s inventory to determine if they already have the types of poles your project needs. Complex orders with unique designs, decorative features, and smart technology integrations may take several weeks or even months to fabricate and deliver. Logistics and other factors, such as raw material availability and third-party quality testing, also extend the delivery timeframe.
To avoid delays, discuss your requirements and delivery timelines during the quotation stage. Reliable manufacturers have a defined production schedule, but customizations may require more time. The manufacturer should keep you updated at every stage to help you plan for delivery and installation.
Do You Offer Technical Support?
Experienced lighting pole manufacturers offer technical support, which includes on-site supervision, assembly guides, and training for installers. These services are especially helpful in private projects, such as adding a light pole to your shopping mall’s parking lot. Technical support allows installers to erect poles according to engineering standards and safety regulations. Manufacturers may assist in planning pole foundations, anchoring bolts, and load-bearing calculations. Technical support from the manufacturer allows you to leverage emerging technologies and efficiencies, especially in installations involving solar modules or smart technology. Ask the manufacturer if they offer site visits, maintenance training, and other services to avoid mishaps. Technical support enables you to leverage the manufacturer’s professional expertise and verify safe, durable installations.
What Is Your Quality Assurance Like?
Light posts must meet safety and regulatory standards; some manufacturers also have their own quality assurance systems. Look for manufacturers who comply with local and international standards, such as ISO certifications and ASTM. The poles should be tested for wind resistance and load capacity to verify they match the intended purpose.
If you choose steel poles, ask about the types of corrosion protection the manufacturer uses and how long it lasts. Hot-dip galvanization is the preferred choice because it protects steel poles for several decades. Manufacturers often inspect each pole for defects and provide comprehensive documentation on manufacturing processes, safety checks, and maintenance schedules. Some manufacturers also offer after-sales support to help maintain the quality and integrity of the poles through the years. Others maintain customer service hotlines and have technical manuals to help with troubleshooting potential problems.
Get Custom Light Poles Today
Installing poles requires customization based on the environment, application, and local standards. Working with an experienced manufacturer allows you to design and install custom poles for your project. Contact a utility systems supplier today to find out more about installing custom light poles.