Weather vanes (sometimes spelled as all one word: weathervanes) have been around for hundreds of years, long before today's sophisticated weather stations. Nowadays, they've gone from a practical tool for measuring wind direction and velocity to an outdoor decor accent that adds interest and uniqueness to your yard or garden.

Weather vanes come in numerous designs, but all are variations of the basic design of a compass. North, south, east and west are indicated on the compass rose, and the needle points in the direction in which the wind is blowing.

Mounting a Weather Vane

You can mount a weather vane almost anywhere you want as long as there is enough open area for the wind to pass by unrestricted. The most common types of weather vanes are:

• Pole-mounted weather vanes. These are the easiest to install because they come already mounted. You simply have to plant the pole in the ground. While pole-mounted weather vanes are usually smaller than other types, you'll still want to make sure the pole is secure in the ground. A good tip is to bury a piece of PVC pipe around the pole to keep it stable.
• Roof-mounted weather vanes. Rooftop weather vanes are the most common type of weather vane. They can go on top of barns, garden sheds and other outdoor structures. You can also mount weather vanes on top of fences and porch railings as long as they are stable and open to the wind.
• Tabletop weather vanes. Smaller weather vanes on their own bases are perfect as accents on outdoor tables. These types of weather vanes are typically used for decorative purposes, but they can be functional, as well.

Weather Vane Styles

Weather vanes come in designs to suit many tastes and any decor theme. For example, rooster weather vanes are one of the most traditional choices in a country setting. If you're looking for something a little more unique, though, consider choosing a weather vane in line with your interests. With weather vanes shaped like sailboats, sports paraphernalia and animals such as horses or dolphins, the options are almost endless. And, of course, you can always order custom weather vanes.

In terms of material, wood is traditional for weather vanes, but it is more susceptible to damage and wear. Aluminum and copper weather vanes are practical choices. In particular, untreated copper is a great choice because it will change color with weathering, creating a unique look that adds interest to any outdoor space.