How to Place a Weather Vane
A weather vane can be a decorative accessory or a functioning instrument, depending on where it is placed. To use a weather vane as a measure of wind, mount the instrument high off the ground or on your roof to get an accurate reading. A weather vane points to the direction from which the wind blows. To function properly, it must be oriented with a compass and be in a spot free from obstacles, such as large tree branches, that might alter wind flow. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Ladder
- Power drill
- Caulking gun
- Waterproof caulk
- Weather vane mounting hardware (optional)
Instructions
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1
Use your screwdriver to assemble the weather vane, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
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2
Decide on the location for your weather vane. Pick an open, unobstructed spot where the wind flows freely.
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3
Go into the attic and locate the ridgepole, the horizontal beam that runs the length of your roof's ridge. Get a clear frame of reference for where you will be working on the roof.
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4
Go outside and climb onto the roof, using a stable ladder, near the point where you want to mount the weather vane.
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5
Use your power drill to drill a vertical hole into the ridge point of the roof and the ridgepole beneath it. Check to be sure the drill bit is no larger in diameter than the mounting rod of the weather vane.
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6
Insert the mounting pole into the hole, to a depth of about 8 or 9 inches. Make sure the fit is snug and the weather vane is perfectly straight and stable.
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7
Use a compass to make sure the directional points to the north.
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8
Check to make sure the set screws on the weather vane are tight and that the ornament spins freely.
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9
Fill your caulking gun with waterproof caulk and apply caulk around the brass rod where it meets the roof. Make sure the hole is completely sealed from the elements.
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Tips & Warnings
As an alternative to traditional roof mounting via the ridgepole, you can buy a weather vane mounting kit from suppliers or your local home improvement store. Most kits are adjustable to any roof pitch.
Be aware of power lines when mounting a weather vane on the roof. Do not mount a weather vane near power lines.
