The wind vane is a meteorological instrument designed to measure wind direction and is also a decorative object. Since its origins, trends have evolved and new models are available on the market.
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Our comparison for the year 2023
Comparison updated on 17/03/2023
Thinking of buying a wind vane online and not sure which one to choose? Don't worry, we've got it all covered.
In this article, we help you make an informed decision with the help of a clear and concise comparison. It will help you identify the product that best suits your needs, based on the opinions of many consumers.
1. Bresser weather station (with automatic wind vane)
The best performing according to consumers
The Bresser Weather Center is a compactly designed weather station offering a wide range of information. It can store weather measurements for up to 24 hours and its electronically controlled wind vane accurately assesses wind speed and direction.
Designed to collect humidity, temperature and precipitation, the Weather Center will allow you to calculate a highly reliable local trend forecast for the next 12 hours from the data collected. In addition, this weather station also provides regular information on the indoor climate with a symbol.
Coupled with the date and time display, the tracking of the different phases of the moon on its monitor makes it a quality product for professional or personal use.
2. Bantam weathervane (copper)
Our favourite ❤
Manufactured with singular attention to detail, the Good Directions Bantam is a particularly weatherproof weathervane. The solid brass cardinal points and the rest of the copper structure give it an exclusive and durable design.
According to consumer reviews, this one stands out in terms of style, quality and longevity. This product is designed by American craftsmen and will age naturally over time. With a lifetime guarantee, this weathervane will be the perfect addition to your home, garage or other building. Please note that the metal roof support (reference 401AL) is sold separately.
3. Hdgz weathervane
An interesting price/quality ratio
The Hdgz weathervane is an eye-catching decorative sculpture in the garden or on the roof of your home. Made of high quality iron and decorated with vivid lines, it is easy to assemble and disassemble.
This robust and uniquely designed weathervane is particularly resistant to the elements, thanks in particular to the application of a rustproof spray paint on its surface. Whether you are a simple lover of angels or seduced by its aesthetic quality, it is certain that you will not leave your family and friends indifferent to this handcrafted weathervane.
4. Wenko windvane
The Wenko is an original garden weathervane made entirely of black painted metal. Light and elegant, this weathervane needs to be attached to a solid support pillar. The whole structure is quite light, which could weaken the support in case of bad weather.
Apart from this small drawback mentioned in the consumer reviews, you will probably be attracted by the representation of this feline chasing a mouse. The Wenko weathervane is a real eye-catcher for your flowerbeds or garden, and will also look great on the roof of your house or a garden shed.
5. Psw Garden Decor Weathervane
Useful and decorative, this metal weathervane is very practical if you wish to anticipate the vagaries of the weather by the direction of the wind. Made of metal and mounted on a stable and sturdy stand, the Psw Garden Decor is an interesting model for those who wish to embellish their garden or the roof of their house with a simple and elegant weathervane.
What is the purpose of a weather vane?
The wind vane is used to show the direction of the wind. It is an ancient meteorological instrument consisting of an arrow mounted on a shaft that rotates with the wind. When the wind blows, it pushes the back, i.e. the larger part of the weathervane, which is aligned parallel to the wind direction.
You should know that the arrow on the wind vane indicates the direction of the wind. It is quite easy to read, as the cardinal points are written on it with the letters :
- N for the north ;
- S for the south ;
- E for the east ;
- O for west.
Thanks to these indications, it is easy to spot and know the wind direction at a glance.
The weathervane is generally made of iron, copper or zinc. It often takes the form of a man, a woman or an animal. In the past, its shape generally referred to the occupation of the inhabitants of the house in which the weathervane was installed. The weathervane can also be found on many church towers: it is represented in the form of a rooster (a Christian and French symbol).
History of the weather vane
The first weather vane was discovered on the Sales Tower of the Roman Agora in Athens. This discovery dates back to the 1st century BC. At that time, a triton holding a rod in his hand could be seen indicating one of the eight possible winds on one side of this octagonal building.
Bronze weathervanes later appeared on the masts of Viking longships around the 9th century. They evoked a mythical Scandinavian creature.
During the same period, the weathervane became a Christian symbol, particularly following the decision of Pope Nicholas I to install it on top of all churches. The rooster was chosen to celebrate the renewal of the day. The purpose of this animal was to remind the faithful of the morning prayer.
The weathervane then became the emblem of power and nobility in the Middle Ages. It could adorn the highest tower of the castles and according to its shape, it was easy to guess the rank of the knight and his possessions. Thanks to the Edict of the Parliament of Grenoble, this privilege disappeared in 1659.
It was not until 1791 and the abolition of privileges that all citizens could enjoy this ornament. The use of the mua wind vane and it began to decorate the homes of the bourgeoisie and craftsmen, who were able to use it as a sign. Thus, bakers, innkeepers and ironmongers could use it to decorate their shop windows. Note that this tradition is still alive in some northern European countries.
Monsters, dragons and other chimerical creatures multiplied during the Renaissance. Nowadays, many craftsmen work hard to keep their art alive. In fact, you can buy some iron pieces that are real works of art and install them in your garden or on your roof.
What are the different types of weather vanes?
There are various models of weather vanes. Each one has its own characteristics.
The automatic wind vane (with electronic potentiometer)
Usually installed with a weather stationThis type of wind vane is a wind direction transmitter. It uses a vane that is moved by the force of the wind. Thanks to the hall effect technology used, it is possible to convert the direction indication into an electronic signal which changes between 0-1 V for 0 to 360°.
The moving part of the vane is mounted on a highly sensitive ball bearing. This allows the vane to rotate even in light winds.
The ultrasonic wind vane
The anemometer has replaced the wind vane with the advance of technology. It is a multifunctional device used in meteorology. which helps you to obtain accurate statistics on wind direction, wind speed, temperature and humidity.
You can control everything from a console. In addition, some models have USB ports and touch screens.
The classic weather vane
This is a small device found on the roofs of some buildings. The weathervane allows you to know the direction of the wind. Nowadays, it comes in several advanced forms. Although it is a very useful meteorological instrument, the classic weathervane is only used for decoration.
To choose the best wind vane, you need to consider many criteria, whether it is decorative or useful for detecting the wind direction.
How to choose a weather vane?
Choosing a windvane is not an easy task. That's why, in order to make your choice easier, we have selected the essential criteria to be taken into account.
The fixing system
Some (older) models do not have a fixing system. It is up to you to invent one so that it can be fixed on the ground, in your garden or on the roof. To keep things simple, look for recent wind vanes with versatile devices that can be attached to any type of support.
The material used
Opt for aluminium as a manufacturing material. It is durable over time and offers you nothing but advantages. It resists corrosion on the seaside. It is strong, environmentally friendly, light, durable, recyclable and does not rust.
The cardinal points
Since the first appearance of weather vanes, this criterion has evolved. In the past, the letters of the cardinal points were clearly visible. You can find wind models that use the direction of the propeller to orient themselves.
On recent metal models, you will find letters and a compass. Note that the most important thing is the efficiency of the windvane if you want to inform you about the climate.
The design
The design is variable and depends on the taste and preferences of each person. In the past, the cockerel weathervane was in fashion. However, things have changed since then. It is now possible to buy a weathervane with other animals or flowers.
It is up to you to choose the one that most closely matches your decorating style. The most important thing is that it brings out the beauty of your home or garden.
The size
Size is an important criterion in the choice of a weather vane. Besides being a meteorological tool, it is also a decorative element. Therefore, it must be seen and appreciated:
- For your garden, we recommend the large models.
- For your roof, choose a medium-sized weathervane.
How to read your weather vane?
You should know that reading a weather vane is based on the change of season. Thus, it is sunny when your windvane is pointing north or east in summer. On the other hand, you can expect a thunderstorm with heavy rain when the arrow points south or west.
During the winter season, if the weather vane points north or east, it may mean a cold spell ahead. When the arrow points south or west, there is a risk of a storm. Finally, a torrential downpour will soon come if your weathervane is pointing east in winter.