Commercial Light Poles

What Are the Different Types of Light Poles?

LED Lighting Supply offers comprehensive commercial light pole solutions in three primary materials: fiberglass, steel, and wood. Based on our 17 years of experience, we classify commercial-grade installations into two mounting categories: anchor-based light poles and direct burial systems.

• Anchor-based systems utilize concrete foundation settings with pre-installed anchor pins. During concrete pouring, these pins create permanent anchoring points for commercial light pole base plates. This method works best for 10-foot to 30-foot heights in high-traffic areas.
• Direct burial installation involves excavating appropriately sized holes and setting poles directly into the ground surface. We primarily recommend this approach for wooden utility poles, ensuring proper burial depth based on pole height. Our Product Specialists supply all necessary anchor bolts and installation hardware.

Understanding Light Pole Shape Options

Shape selection impacts both aesthetics and wind resistance. Our extensive inventory covers tapered, square, and round configurations across all material types.

1. Steel Square Light Poles
2. Steel Round Light Poles
3. Wood Round Light Poles
4. Fiberglass Round Light Poles
5. Fiberglass Tapered Light Poles

Tapered designs offer superior wind resistance and modern aesthetics for both fiberglass and steel materials. Wood poles maintain traditional round profiles, making them the standard choice for utility infrastructure including telecommunication towers and power distribution systems.

Demystifying Different Light Pole Materials

Height requirements drive material selection more than aesthetics. Our pole inventory spans 10 feet to 70+ feet, with each material offering distinct advantages based on environmental conditions and application demands.

What is a Fiberglass Light Pole?

Fiberglass light poles excel in corrosive environments where steel would deteriorate rapidly. These composite structures resist rot, rust, corrosion, and fire damage while maintaining significantly lower weight than comparable steel options. Installation crews appreciate the reduced equipment requirements for fiberglass placement. Engineering flexibility sets fiberglass apart-these poles bend under extreme weather rather than snapping, dramatically reducing replacement frequency and associated costs. Coastal installations and hurricane-prone regions benefit most from fiberglass construction, as salt air and high winds pose minimal long-term threats to composite materials.

What is a Steel Light Pole?

Steel light poles dominate parking lot and recreational facility installations due to superior strength-to-height ratios. Fire resistance, pest immunity, and decay prevention extend steel pole lifespans well beyond wood alternatives, while robust construction handles high wind loads effectively. We stock steel poles from 10 feet to 30 feet to accommodate various commercial applications. Heavy outdoor stadium light fixtures and multi-head flood lights mount securely to steel structures without compromising stability.

What is a Wood Light Pole?

Wood light poles serve industrial and utility applications where traditional materials meet regulatory requirements. Telecommunication and power utility replacements often specify wood construction for consistency with existing infrastructure. Proper sealing protects external connections and wiring from moisture infiltration. Our wood inventory includes 20-foot to 70-foot heights across classes 1 through 6, ensuring appropriate load ratings for any utility application.

How Long Does it Take to Get Light Poles After Ordering?

Most commercial light poles require 4 to 12 weeks for delivery since USA-based manufacturers custom-build each pole according to project specifications. However, quick-ship inventory includes poles up to 30 feet in standard dark bronze finish, with expedited custom colors available upon request. We typically recommend placing orders early in project planning to avoid construction delays, especially for larger installations requiring multiple poles or specialized wind ratings.

What is the Ideal Height for a Commercial Light Pole?

Coverage area determines optimal pole height more than fixture type. Standard street and parking lot installations range from 10 to 35 feet, with larger areas requiring taller poles to maintain uniform illumination patterns. We generally recommend 15-20 foot poles for small parking areas, 20-25 foot heights for medium lots, and 25-35 foot poles for expansive commercial spaces. Athletic fields and large industrial areas may require specialized heights beyond standard ranges.

The Influence of Wind Load on Commercial Light Pole Selection

Geographic location and local weather patterns directly impact structural requirements for safe pole installation. EPA rating calculations account for both pole surface area and mounted fixture wind resistance to prevent structural failure. Inadequate wind load planning creates serious safety hazards and potential liability issues. Our high-wind light poles feature enhanced EPA ratings specifically engineered for challenging coastal and plains environments.

Top LED Fixtures for Light Pole Installation

Fixture selection depends heavily on coverage requirements and mounting height limitations. Each fixture type offers specific advantages for different commercial applications.

• Flood lights deliver concentrated illumination for security perimeters and loading dock areas requiring high-intensity coverage.
• Parking lot lights provide broad, uniform distribution patterns that improve visibility while reducing dark spots and security risks.
• Stadium lights generate maximum lumen output for athletic facilities and large industrial areas requiring exceptional brightness levels.

Our lighting design services help match appropriate fixtures to pole specifications, ensuring optimal performance and code compliance for your specific installation requirements.

Why LED Lighting Supply is Your Strategic Partner for Commercial Light Poles

Our experienced Product Specialists provide complimentary custom lighting plans tailored specifically to your facility's unique layout and requirements. With 17 years of commercial lighting expertise, we calculate precise energy savings projections that help justify your investment to decision-makers. These detailed calculations show exactly how your new LED pole lighting system will reduce electricity costs compared to traditional fixtures. Our team understands the critical engineering requirements for wind load compliance, soil conditions, and local building codes that impact pole selection. When you purchase from LED Lighting Supply, you gain access to expert guidance that prevents costly specification errors and ensures your commercial lighting project delivers optimal performance from day one.

Commercial Light Poles Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Light Poles Are Available for Commercial Applications?

Commercial light poles come in three primary materials: fiberglass, steel, and wood. Steel poles dominate parking lot installations with heights from 10 to 30 feet, offering superior strength for heavy fixtures. Fiberglass poles excel in corrosive coastal environments and provide superior wind resistance through flexible construction. Wood poles serve utility applications from 20 to 70 feet across Classes 1-6 for telecommunication and power infrastructure.

How Long Does Delivery Take for Custom Light Poles?

Most commercial light poles require 4 to 12 weeks for delivery since USA manufacturers custom-build each pole to project specifications. Quick-ship inventory includes poles up to 30 feet in dark bronze finish for faster delivery. Order early in project planning phases to prevent construction delays, especially for large installations requiring specialized wind ratings or multiple units.

What Height Should I Choose for Parking Lot Light Poles?

Coverage area determines optimal height more than fixture type. Small parking areas perform best with 15-20 foot poles, medium lots require 20-25 foot heights, and expansive commercial spaces need 25-35 foot poles for uniform illumination. Athletic fields and industrial areas may require specialized heights beyond standard commercial ranges.

How Do I Calculate Wind Load Requirements for Light Poles?

EPA rating calculations account for both pole surface area and mounted fixture wind resistance based on local weather patterns. Geographic location determines structural requirements, with coastal and plains environments requiring enhanced wind ratings. Inadequate wind load planning creates safety hazards and liability issues, making proper engineering calculations essential for code compliance.

Which Light Pole Material Offers the Best Durability?

Fiberglass poles provide superior longevity in corrosive environments, resisting salt air, chemicals, and UV damage without deterioration. Steel poles offer maximum strength for heavy fixture loads but require protective coatings in harsh environments. Wood poles serve utility applications effectively but need proper sealing and treatment for moisture protection and extended service life.

What LED Fixtures Work Best on Commercial Light Poles?

Shoebox fixtures provide uniform parking lot distribution, flood lights deliver concentrated security illumination, and stadium lights generate maximum lumen output for large areas. Fixture selection depends on mounting height, coverage requirements, and application demands. Match fixture EPA ratings to pole wind specifications for safe installation compliance.

How Much Do Commercial Light Poles Cost Including Installation?

Steel poles range from $800-2,500 per unit depending on height and specifications, while fiberglass poles cost $1,200-4,000 for enhanced durability. Installation adds $500-1,500 per pole based on foundation requirements and local labor rates. Total project costs include electrical connections, permits, and fixture integration beyond basic pole pricing.

What Foundation Requirements Do Light Poles Need?

Anchor-based systems use concrete foundations with pre-installed anchor pins for heights from 10-30 feet in high-traffic areas. Direct burial installation works best for wooden utility poles with proper burial depth calculations. Foundation sizing depends on pole height, wind ratings, and soil conditions requiring engineering specifications for safe installation.

Why Do Electrical Contractors Choose LED Lighting Supply for Light Pole Projects?

Our Product Specialists provide complimentary custom lighting plans with precise energy savings calculations that help justify project investments to decision-makers. With 17 years of commercial expertise and 25,000+ completed projects, we understand wind load compliance, soil conditions, and local building codes that impact pole selection. Our technical guidance prevents costly specification errors and ensures optimal performance from project start.

Can Light Poles Be Installed in Any Soil Condition?

Soil conditions directly impact foundation design and installation methods. Clay and rocky soils require different excavation approaches than sandy conditions. Poor drainage areas need enhanced foundation sealing and proper grading for long-term stability. Professional soil analysis determines appropriate foundation specifications for safe, compliant installations.

What Maintenance Do Commercial Light Poles Require?

Steel poles need annual coating inspections and touch-up painting every 5-7 years to prevent corrosion. Fiberglass poles require minimal maintenance beyond periodic cleaning and connection inspections. Wood poles need bi-annual sealing checks and replacement every 15-25 years depending on environmental exposure and treatment quality.

How Do I Match Light Pole Specifications to Local Building Codes?

Local codes specify minimum wind ratings, foundation requirements, and setback distances from property lines and traffic areas. UL Listed poles ensure electrical safety compliance, while structural certifications verify load capacity ratings. Professional engineering stamps may be required for installations exceeding standard height or wind specifications in your jurisdiction.