Weather vanes, also referred to as weathercocks, are mechanical devices that are commonly installed on the rooftops of buildings or structures, particularly on top of barns, houses, and churches, to indicate the direction of the wind. They are designed to rotate freely and align themselves with the wind, allowing individuals to quickly and easily determine the wind's direction.
Weather vanes typically consist of a rigid shaft or rod, referred to as the spindle, which is mounted vertically on top of the structure. At the top of the spindle, a decorative ornament or symbol, often in the shape of an arrow, bird, or animal, is attached, known as the vane. The vane has a larger surface area on one side compared to the other, causing it to rotate and point in the direction from which the wind is blowing.
Weather vanes have been used for centuries and serve practical, functional, and decorative purposes. They not only provide a reliable and visible indication of wind direction but also add an aesthetic element to the architecture of the building. Traditionally, weather vanes were crafted from materials such as wood, metal, or iron. Nowadays, weather vanes can be found in a variety of designs, sizes, and materials, including copper, stainless steel, and aluminum. Additionally, some modern weather vanes are equipped with a weather vane anemometer, allowing them to measure the speed of the wind in addition to its direction.
