PRODUCT FEATURE - Certified Fabric Windsocks
We are often asked, “How long is the expected life of our fabric windsock?” At last, we have an answer … sort of …
A fabric windsock’s lifespan can vary greatly depending upon local conditions. In our experience, time to replacement can range from six months to two years. This is strongly correlated to UV exposure and wind conditions, and excludes significant wind events such as hurricanes and typhoons. Despite this variability, durability can still be objectively defined.
Millard does not specify an expected lifespan, but rather builds to the FAA standard on strength and UV resistance.* Although lab testing is not the perfect indicator of life expectancy for specific locations, it does allow for an easy comparison between manufacturers. Better performance in the lab will equate to better performance in the field. Millard’s Certified Fabric Windsocks have been tested to FAA standards and pass with flying colours, pun intended.
*FAA AC 150 / 5345-27 is the prevailing standard for windsock fabric design. Section 3.2.3 covers testing procedures for strength and colour fastness. Currently, ICAO does not have a prescriptive outline for fabric durability.