Telephone poles, also called “utility” poles, are columns that originated in the mid-1800s to support telegraph lines above the ground. Let’s Know More about Telephone Poles Cost.
These days, they carry telephone wires and other public utilities like electrical cables, fiber optic cables, etc.
They are widespread across the country to provide phone services to various places. But how much does a pole cost?
Not all poles cost the same; instead, their cost varies based on numerous factors. Mainly if a stick needs to be replaced due to some mishap, they range from about 3000$ to 6500$ including the pole’s cost and installation charges.
But if anyone wants to purchase a pole, they will find different prices depending on one type or another.
Generally, the prices vary according to the size of the poles. Some estimates are given below:
| SIZES | PRICE |
| A 25-foot pole | 225$ |
| A 30-foot pole | 375$ |
| A 35-foot pole | 450$ |
| A 40-foot pole | 575$ |
| A 45-foot pole | 725$ |
| A 50-foot pole | 880$ |
How long does it take to install a Telephone pole?
Installing utility poles can be a time-consuming job. The time needed to install a pole may differ depending upon the complexity and location of the installation.
Under favorable circumstances, an average pole requires around 8-18 working hours; if the circumstances appear to be unfavorable, it can take up to 20-75 working hours to install a single pole.
How long does a telephone pole last?
The lifespan of some poles is much longer than the others. As compared to wooden poles, metal and concrete poles last much longer. Some powerful poles are most likely to go on for around 50-60 years.
Wooden structured poles usually live for approximately 30-35 years; while giving some extra maintenance, they can last up to 75 years, but sooner or later, every utility pole must be replaced; otherwise, they can give rise to some serious hazards and safety issues.
What is the reason for installing a telephone pole?
Telephone poles or utility poles can be used for different purposes, but the main and the most common type of purpose is that they are used for the overhead power lines. Some useful cables for a telephone connection are wired across these poles.
They are insulated from the ground, and they are installed at a height where it is out of reach of people and other vehicles.
These poles are usually made out of wood, metal, and concrete, but with technology, advanced metal became the choice of many, as the usage of wood has been discouraged by many countries around the globe.
These poles are commonly used for two different power lines: sub-transmission lines are used to carry high voltage, and distribution lines are used to distribute low voltage to their consumers.
Is installing a telephone pole useful in any way?
Telephone pole installation can be beneficial as they can be easily installed and are reasonable when it comes to the price. These poles can be long-lasting and have the capacity to bear heavy loads. They can be used and installed anywhere after the proper inspection.
They are installed at a specific height for a reason. Climbing wild creatures can be a source of substantial damage to these poles, for example, squirrels, raccoons, and other species; chewing off a voltage wire from these creatures could result in a power break and potentially kill the animal.
And because of their overhead wiring, they are also less harmful to people in numerous ways.
Which one is better, an above-ground installation or an underground installation?
A telephone pole can be installed in both ways, and both of them have their pros and cons, let’s dive into them:
Above-ground installation
Pros:
It is relatively cheap and fast to install these poles above the ground. Many countries still adopt this way of installing poles, but technologically advanced countries discourage the installation of these poles above the ground.
Cons:
It requires weekly or monthly maintenance as they are exposed to heat and other weather conditions. These poles are usually damaged due to car accidents or animals chewing their wires.
Underground installation
Pros:
Wires and different cables are protected from bad weather conditions and are also safe from road accidents. Overall, it requires less maintenance.
Cons:
The whole installation process under the ground can be very costly, and most of the time, cables and wires are torn by the roots of the trees. Access can also be very challenging.
Conclusion
A telephone pole can be easily installed anywhere, and it is relatively reasonable than other power installation poles.
If the maintenance work is done promptly and installation is done in the right way, then these poles can give long-lasting life. Annually, 3,000,000 poles are produced. These poles are usually 30-80 feet tall and have a diameter of 11-27 inches.
