Weather vane on the roof: a variety of interesting decorative elements for exterior decoration of the house

A weathervane is a meteorological device mounted on a roof to determine the direction and strength of the wind. The original functional attribute, which sways from side to side, today has become a bright decorative transformation, decorating the roofs of houses.

Wind vane - an ancient attribute on the roof of modern buildings

A roof vane has been installed as an amulet since ancient times. He was supposed to protect from evil spirits, creating a barrier around the monastery. A beautiful swirling element gave the building exceptional exclusivity, drawing attention even to the simplest house. A smoke or garden vane is visible from afar. It attracts attention, reflects the life position and way of thinking of the owners, clearly demonstrating the taste, and sometimes their social status. In ancient times, flags of surnames, emblems and zodiac elements were used as an image for a weather vane. The roofs of the houses were decorated with decorative figures of angels, animal themes, images of mythical creatures and favorite fairy-tale characters. Today, the weather vane fashion is back.

Design features of the weather vane on the roof

Weathervanes that can rotate have a very simple mechanism. A plate that sways under the influence of wind energy, indicating speed and direction, consists of the following elements:

• a metal rod that is permanently attached to the roof, chimney or other supporting areas;
• indicator plate presented in the form of a flat figure;
• A sign of the sides of the world that allows you to visually determine the direction of the wind.

Standard dimensions of the structure are 400 × 770-800 × 1200 mm. However, the parameters are approximate. Today you can choose a finished product with the most bizarre shapes and sizes, and also find a craftsman who will make a wind branch on the roof of the house according to an individual drawing.

Weathervanes on the roof: photo of the main types

Functional features determine the species diversity of the weather vane. There are 4 main types of similar devices for house roofs:

• Meteorological weather vane on the roof or chimney. This is a rather complex device with high accuracy and a balanced mechanism of operation. A typical representative is an anemorumbometer that uses weather stations.
• Windmill. These devices are used to determine the strength and direction of the wind. The level of complexity of the project depends on the accuracy of the results. A special detail is vertical plates.
• A weather vane with a propeller is often used as a repellent for birds.
• Smoke devices. If the chimney must be protected from blowing air, the weather vane is installed on the chimney. With a strong wind, the combustion products disappear unhindered.

Metal weathervanes on the roof

It is worth noting the decorative functions of the weather vane, which contribute to the beautiful framing of the roof of the building. Usually metal weathercocks are made in the form of an animal or are represented by complex symbols. People from ancient times believed in the mystical power of shields, and the weather vane on the chimney or roof of the house played the role of a mascot. Also today, many will not give up a good amulet, so the choice of a weather vane for the private sector in a city or in a village often indicates the symbolic meaning of this element.

Consider some of the shapes and their meanings:

• A weather vane made of metal or copper in the shape of a rooster, in accordance with the beliefs of ancestors, expels evil spirits from the house, protects the housing from fire, attacks and all enemy attacks.
• The image of cows or horses symbolize eternal love and devotion.
• Griffin is a symbol of strength and prosperity, success in the family.
• The ship presented in the weather prediction will bring positive changes to the house.
• The cat is chosen by people who love freedom and creativity.
• The angel is the protector of the house and its inhabitants, the messenger of the spiritual world.
• Images of witches should indicate the strength of a person living in the house.

In fact, absolutely every sign, symbol or image can become the basis for creating exceptional wind energy. One of the latest trends is weathercocks with the name of the owner of the house.

Weather vane on a wooden roof

A weather vane made of wood looks very beautiful, but the disadvantage is too short a lifetime. Of course, the product can also be treated with special protective fluids, but this will solve the problem only for a short time. Wooden blades are always influenced by precipitation, sudden changes in temperature and humidity. No type of wood can withstand such loads for a long time. However, you can occasionally update the design of the roof of the house.

DIY weather vane on the roof

The weather vane can be made even with your own hands, using a more primitive material: wood, plywood, plastic. Traditionally used metal, which allows you to create products with high operational life. Copper blades can be coated with various anticorrosive compounds that protect the weather vane from ultraviolet radiation and moisture. Each master uses this fluid in his work. When creating jewelry with your own hands, it is also recommended to use anti-corrosion agents. Using special scissors, you can easily cut any shape or symbol. Speed ​​depends on basic skills. Before starting work, it is better to draw a sketch according to which the creation of a weather vane will be even more simplified. The most advanced technology - laser cutting, which allows you to create real masterpieces. However, this method is also the most expensive from a financial point of view.

Creating a weather vane yourself can become a good family tradition: every year you make new creations and decorate your home with them. In addition, do not forget about the symbol of the weather vane. A spinning character can personify a new stage in life and summon something good to the house.