Steel is usually inexpensive to produce and has good structural strength. In addition, steel is extremely durable and most often comes powder coated in custom colors. However, steel needs to be protected from the environment with either a paint or galvanization finish to prevent oxidation.

Aluminum poles have thicker walls to make up for the metal's lesser strength. For this reason, aluminum poles are generally more expensive than steel poles. However, aluminum poles do not rust because aluminum oxide forms a protective layer over the surface of the metal and don't need cranes for installation. Heavy-duty aluminum poles are used extensively for bridges because they can withstand the high wind conditions, salty air, excessive moisture, extreme high/low temperature factors, car exhaust fumes and vibrations.

Fiberglass Poles do not rust either, and require no heavy equipment. What's more, fiberglass poles are light enough to be carried on one's shoulder. For instance, an 18' foot pole can weigh as little as 39 pounds. These poles don't require on-site painting because, due to the manufacturing process, color is impregnated throughout the pole wall.

Cast iron is the original material used for manufacturing street poles. It is truly authentic. Cast iron poles are a heavy duty utility grade product designed for use in all areas of public access. Built to last over a 100 years, these poles have excellent strength and corrosion resistance, although they do still rust.

Spun Concrete poles are exactly what they sound like. They are inexpensive, rust proof, and need no painting because the color is built in. Like cast iron, they are heavy duty and built to last but, unlike cast iron and other metal poles, they are not traditional upon close inspection. Chunks of colored concrete create the illusion of a cast iron finish.

There are several manu-facturers to choose from with a seemingly endless catalog of styles and colors. Check out the ad index on page 98 or the May 2000 Landscape Architect and Specifier New's specifiers guide for manufactures names and contact information.

King Luminaire's spun concrete Pacific pole shown with Paragon luminaires.