How to Choose Animal Weathervanes

The weathervane has a long history in weather forecasting, and like many ancient architectural elements, the weathervane has ornamental value as well. Many of the most culturally significant and popular weathervanes feature animals. The rooster weathervane began its rise to fame in the ninth century. As in today's America, patriotic figures, like the eagle, were in favor during the early years of the 1800s. Today, pigs, horses, fish, geese and gargoyles remain timelessly popular. The weathervane market offers a style for everyone, but shoppers have several factors to consider when choosing an animal weathervane.

Instructions

Choosing Animal Weathervanes

1. Decide where the animal weathervane will be installed. The weathervane is not restrained to the rooftop, but also can be installed on top of garages, barns, garden sheds or gazebos. Install animal weathervanes in gardens with extended mounting rods. Another option is to choose an animal weathervane for interior display.

2. Consider the proportions of the structure on which the animal weathervane will be installed. Choose a size that will compliment your tastes and the structure, whether you desire something small, balanced or over-sized and bold. Select the size of the weathervane. Animal weathervanes can be crafted in almost any size, but common measurements range from below 20 inches in width to well over 50 inches in width.

3. Choose a weathervane body type. Silhouette weathervanes are two-dimensional and flat. Full bodied weathervanes are three-dimensional and fully detailed. Swell-bodied weathervanes are lightly detailed. They are a mixture of the 2D and 3D styles, but closer in form to the silhouette.

4. Decide upon the finish of the animal weathervane. This may not be an issue if you have already chosen a classic favorite, like the copper rooster, but know that there is a full selection of finishes available. Some options include flat black, deeply textured blue/green faux verdigris and faux metal. Choose a finish that works with, and compliments, your home or garden.

5. Choose a mount for the weathervane. The type of mount you use will vary depending on the size of the weathervane and where it is installed. Larger weathervanes require large mounts to carry the weight. There are also adjustable weathervanes designed to fit the pitch of any roof. Four-sided roof mounts work well with cupolas, wall mounted L-shaped mounts are more unique, and decorative mounts designed for tabletop display turn weathervanes into interior accents.

Tips & Warnings

• The head of the weathervane animal points in the direction the wind is blowing.

• Optimize the functionality of your weathervanes by installing them in open and breezy areas.

References

• Denninger: History of the Weathervane
• Architectural Depot: Weathervane Mounting Hardware
• West Coast Weather Vanes: Sizes and Display Options