Front Yard Landscaping Ideas

Going Where The Wind Takes You With A Weather Vane

Which way does the wind blow? A weather vane is a perfect solution if you want to know the direction the wind blows. Back then, weather vanes helped folks determine which way the wind was blowing. Although weather vanes still maintain their purpose, they also serve as more of a decorative function in American households.

A weather vane is an instrument that displays the direction of the wind. They are mainly found on buildings as an architectural ornament at the highest point. The most common feature found on a weather vane is a rooster, but other common designs are horses, cows, cars, etc. One interesting thing to note is that not all of them have pointers.

The design of a weather vane is such that the weight is distributed evenly on each part of the surface. But, the surface area is not divided equally so that the pointer is able to move freely on its axis. The part of the weather vane with a larger area blows away from the direction of the wind. The pointer, therefore is always on the smaller area. Most weather vane designs have directional markers (North, South, East, West) that are located underneath the arrow.

Weather vanes that have a lot of detail or interesting shapes and designs will not accurately show the real direction of the wind. This happens because the figures located on top of it does not attain the necessary design balance—an uneven surface area with a balanced weight. In order to obtain a precise reading, the weather vane must be positioned well above the ground and away from tall buildings, trees, poles, and other tall objects. This is because they interfere with the true direction of the wind.

If you enjoy predicting the weather, then a weather vane may be an ideal tool to use. Here are few styles that are worth looking at to add to your outdoor décor.

Mickey in Wind Weather Vane

Walt Disney and his imagination created some of the most beloved characters today. Loved by all generations, the Mickey Mouse in wind weather vane becomes an instant collector's item. He is wearing a scarf that appears to be blowing, as if he is fighting against the wind.  It is made out of rust free die-cast aluminum, and proudly made in the USA. Mickey's figure is cast from hand and is hand painted, for a weather resistant finish.

Sun, Moon, and Clouds Signature Weather Vane

Engaging and distinctive, this weather vane will add charm and whimsy atop your home or any type of roof structure. It is hand crafted from copper and brass metals, using traditional hammer-sculpting techniques. It is finished with a verdigris patina, for a worn look. Applied by hand, this verdigris patina finish transforms pure copper and brass, which gives off a deeply toned blue-green hue.

Fireman's Trumpet Weather Vane

This exquisite piece has a polished finish. Salute the special fireman in your life or honor the men and women who risk their lives every day to keep us from harm. This weather vane is a tribute to firefighters. It is embellished with copper spacer balls for added elegance. The brass helmet and trumpet shine beautifully in the sunlight. This piece will have your guests talking as you enjoy its look.

The Butterfly Weather Vane

Just imagine the delicate wings of the charming butterfly flapping in the wind. This weather vane will look pretty in the garden or atop the roof, declaring your love of nature. It adds a whimsical touch to your outdoor space, with the beautiful nature of the butterfly to enhance colors of the flowers in your garden.

Garden Cow Over Moon Weather vane

Pay tribute to the classic nursery rhyme with this delightful and nostalgic weather instrument. The stars, moon, and cow collide artistically atop the vane with directional markers. It has a verdigris patina finish. It boasts a six foot height for easy visibility. It has hand-hammered styling and ground pin, suitable for installation.

If you are always curious about the direction the wind blows, then a beautifully crafted and designed weather vane just might be the answer. Made out of durable and long lasting materials, they will be sure to become a welcome addition to your outdoor landscape. Garden Winds has selected a series of weather vanes to match the needs of all homes, whether it be functional or purely decorative. Enjoy one for your home today!

Charmaine Ferrer is an associate writer for Garden Winds and The Lucky Clover Trading Co. For questions or comments, she can be reached toll free 877.479.4637.
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