Decorative Light Pole Specification: how to describe the pole, approve a sample and match every batch

First, people judge a plain street pole by what it does. A decorative pole, however, must also look right. Looks are hard to put into words, so a decorative light pole specification has to be more careful than a plain one.

The specification article on Wikipedia calls a specification a set of documented requirements that a design or product must meet. It also adds that a specification may cover delivery conditions and signatures of approval. Both points matter here, because a look only counts as agreed once someone signs it.

Three things that go wrong

As a result, the goal is simple. First, write the requirements down. Then approve one sample, and match every later pole to it.

Think of the specification as seven short clauses. First, write each one in plain words. Then check your draft against Table 1 before you send it. Our decorative lighting pole range page says the poles accommodate suitable LED luminaires, lanterns and compatible outdoor fixtures, so the fixture clause matters as much as the pole clause.

Style words help, but they are not enough. Our decorative lighting pole page lists modern, classic, heritage and landscaped looks, so start by picking one family. Then add a reference drawing or photo, because a picture removes most doubt.

Details worth naming

Next, name the details that create the look. These include the fixture mount, the arm or bracket curve, the shaft profile, any ring detail and the base. Moreover, say what you do not want, for instance extra ornament that raises the cost.

Use a mock-up when the look is new

If the design is new, ask whether your supplier can show a mock-up. The mockup article on Wikipedia describes a mockup as a scale or full-size model of a design, used for design evaluation among other purposes. As a result, you can judge the proportions before fabrication starts.

Colour is where decorative orders drift most, because shades look different in different light. Therefore, name the colour with a code instead of a word. The RAL colour standard article on Wikipedia describes RAL as a colour management system with four-digit codes, mainly used for varnish and powder coating. So a RAL code gives both sides the same target.

Also state the gloss level, because matte and gloss look different even in the same colour. Finally, ask your supplier to confirm the finish in writing. Our pages mention hot-dip galvanising and powder coating in multiple colours, but each project should confirm which coating applies to which pole.

Ask for a finish sample

Before the full order, ask for a coated sample or a photo of the real finish. Then compare it with your colour code in daylight, since indoor light can change how a shade looks.

Approval turns your specification into a shared target, because both sides sign the same thing. In fact, this idea has a name in manufacturing. The first article inspection article on Wikipedia describes a production validation process that checks whether a new process makes parts that meet the specification. It usually covers the first part, or a sample from the first batch.

You do not need the factory jargon, but you can borrow the idea. First, approve the drawing. Next, approve the finish. Then approve the first pole before the full batch moves on. If any step fails, fix it before you continue.

Also ask your supplier which of these steps they support. Because every project differs, agree the steps in writing, together with the person who signs.

Many projects order in phases, so batches can arrive months apart. For example, a society may light the gate now and the garden next year. As a result, the second batch must match the first, even though months have passed.

To keep the match, store the approved drawing, the colour code and photos of the approved pole, and also record the specification revision on every order. As a result, nobody works from an old version.

If a pole looks different, photograph it beside the approved reference and tell your supplier at once. Moreover, do not install doubtful poles, because removing them later costs more. Our garden lighting pole range and modern LED lighting pole range follow the same logic when you mix styles in one project.

First, use the builder to turn your choices into numbered clauses. Then fill in what you know. After that, copy the text or send it to us on WhatsApp. Nothing is stored, because the text builds in your browser.

Before you send the specification, run through these points. Each one takes a minute, but each can save a week.

• Before you send it, check that every clause has an answer, or says “please advise”.
• Also confirm that the colour has a code and a gloss level.
• Make sure the fixture name and weight are on the page, because the load depends on them.
• Then ask which approval steps your supplier supports, and write them down.
• Record the drawing number and the revision, so that nobody uses an old version.
• Finally, keep photos of the approved pole for later batches.
• Lastly, ask for the reply in writing, with the weight, the delivery time and the GST.

If some poles are for roads, our street light pole range covers those. For a large project, also read our decorative lighting pole buyer's guide, because it explains how to compare suppliers. Then, when your specification is ready, send it with your drawings and your quantity.