What do weathervanes do?
What do weathervanes do?
A wind vane definition is an instrument that measures the direction from which the wind is blowing. They are sometimes called weathervanes and were a common sight on top of barns and churches in the past. Many were quite decorative. These days the wind vane is an essential part of a weather station.
Why do farmers have weathervanes?
For those who live in the country weathervanes are a common sight, providing farmers and ranchers with valuable information about the current weather conditions and helping those old hands to predict storms and other rough weather to come.
Why is it called a weathervane?
A wind vane, weather vane, or weathercock is an instrument used for showing the direction of the wind. It is typically used as an architectural ornament to the highest point of a building. The word vane comes from the Old English word fana, meaning “flag”.
Who invented weathervane?
Greek astronomer Andronicus
Weathervanes have been around for over 2,000 years, invented by the Greek astronomer Andronicus in 48 B.C. to determine the direction of the wind. The first weathervane – also called a “wind vane” – was fashioned to look like the Greek god Triton, who had the head and torso of a man and the tail of a fish.
What does a weathervane sit on?
Both beautiful and functional, weathervanes sit on the highest point of the roof, or grace the cap of a cupola, to show the direction of the wind. The most popular design is the traditional rooster, with letters on the rod indicating the points of the compass.
How do you mount weathervanes?
Place your mount on the desired roof location and insert the largest assembly rod of the weathervane. Next, ensure that the assembly rod is vertical and that the mount is in the right orientation by checking with a level. Once it is level, mark the screw holes with a pencil and drill pilot holes.
Does a weathervane have to be grounded?
If there is a fully bonded system installed on the building, you should add the weathervane to that system. (A fully bonded system is not considered grounding your fuse box.) If there is no bonded system, DO NOT ground your weathervane which will actually attract lightning.