Amish Country Products and More proudly offers a variety of weathervanes perfectly sized for use on cottages and sheds. Following are FAQs for our customers, to help you with your journey in finding the perfect weathervane online. (Note: You may need to use mounting brackets if you’re not installing the weathervane into a cupola.)
1. How does a wind vane work?
A wind vane, sometimes called a weathervane, works by rotating to indicate the direction of the wind. It’s a seemingly simple tool, yet based on physics. The design features a long horizontal pointer (often an arrow or themed figure like a rooster) mounted on a vertical spindle. This pointer is intentionally unbalanced: one end offers more surface area (the “tail”) while the other (the “tip”) is narrow and streamlined.
As wind flows, it presses against the tail end of the vane, which causes it to swing so the pointer faces into the wind. For example, if the arrow points north, it means the wind is coming from the north and blowing southward. Most weathervanes sit atop a set of directional indicators, N, S, E, and W, which help you interpret wind direction immediately.
But balance is key. A well-made wind vane, like those offered at Amish Country Products & More, spins freely on its axis with minimal friction. Our wind vanes remain accurate even in light wind. These functional touches, combined with signature designs, make them both practical and beautiful additions to any cottage shed or outdoor structure.
2. Are weathervanes still functional or just decorative?
Both. Many modern weathervanes, including ours, still spin freely and show wind direction. They function fully and also enhance outdoor aesthetics with a handcrafted look. They can also extend your personality to outbuildings, with whimsical designs like a motorcycle weathervane or our painted patriotic weathervane.
3. Why choose an Amish County Products weathervane?
We offer quality over quantity to provide durability, balance, and timeless charm.
4. Can I install a weathervane on a cottage-style shed?
Absolutely. Our cottage shed weathervanes are perfectly sized for smaller outbuildings, with mounting brackets that make installation straightforward on roof peaks, cupolas, or even fences. All weathervanes are sold complete with the full copper figure, spacer balls, directional indicators, and stainless-steel mounting rod.
5. What materials are used in your weathervanes?
We use rust-resistant metals like aluminum or powder-coated steel. Some models feature copper or painted finishes designed to weather beautifully over time.
6. How do I know which weathervane size is right for my building?
For small to medium sheds, a 24″ to 30″ arrow length works well. Larger barns or garages may call for 36″ or more. All listings on our site include sizing. You can also contact us to get more information about our products.
7. What is the purpose of a wind vane today?
While originally used to indicate wind direction for farming or sailing, today’s weathervanes are also decorative symbols of tradition, craftsmanship, and personality. Our inventory is especially for small buildings.
Here are some small outbuildings that pair well with a weather vane, both in terms of style and scale:
- Garden Shed
A classic choice, especially with a cupola and weather vane. Adds charm and function to any backyard. - Tool or Potting Shed
Smaller than a garden shed, often with windows or decorative trim. A weather vane makes it feel like a miniature farmhouse. - Chicken Coop
A traditional A-frame or barn-style chicken coop looks great with a rooster weather vane on top. - Playhouse
Top a Kids’ playhouse, designed to look like cottages or cabins, with a whimsical weather vane for extra character. - Small Barn or Run-In Shelter
Perfect for goats, sheep, or even horses. The weather vane adds a rural touch. - Outdoor Office or Studio
A small freestanding workspace with a cupola and weather vane gives it a finished, architectural look. - Pool House or Cabana
Adding a weather vane to a poolside structure elevates the aesthetic while keeping things relaxed.
8. Will the weathervane spin freely in all weather conditions?
Yes, be sure to install it level and unobstructed. Each weathervane includes a precision-balanced spindle or bearing to allow smooth rotation even in light wind.
9. What types of weathervane motifs do you offer?
Our collection of cottage and shed weathervanes includes classic roosters, horses, eagles, and biplanes, as well as whimsical designs like flying pigs. Every weathervane reflects rural charm or personal expression. We also carry full-size copper weathervanes for pairing with our Amish cupolas to adorn homes and garages.
10. Is it hard to install a weathervane on an existing roof or cupola?
Not at all. We include with the full copper figure, spacer balls, directional indicators, and stainless-steel mounting rod. Many DIYers complete the job in under an hour.
11. Do your weathervanes include directional letters (N, S, E, W)?
Yes. Our weathervanes come with directional indicators to help orient the arrow and give your display functional value.
12. Will a metal weathervane rust over time?
Not with proper coatings. We make our wind vanes with weather-resistant metals and protective finishes so that they withstand outdoor exposure and maintain their beauty for years.
13. What makes a weathervane a good gift idea?
It’s a meaningful and personal gift, especially for housewarmings, retirements, or anniversaries. Each weathervane tells a story, whether it’s a nod to someone’s heritage, hobbies, or homestead.
14. Do all wind vanes have anemometers?
No. An anemometer is a separate tool that measures wind speed and not wind direction.
15. Can I move a weathervane from one building to another later?
Yes. With the right mounting hardware, most of our weathervanes are removable and reusable, perfect for renters, movers, or those expanding their outbuildings.
16. What direction should a weathervane face when installed?
The arrow should rotate freely to point into the wind. Be sure to align the directional letters properly (with N facing true north) during installation.
17. Why do some weathervanes turn green?
Copper weathervanes naturally develop a greenish patina over time due to oxidation. This patina, called verdigris, forms when copper reacts with moisture and air, especially in coastal or humid climates. While some see it as weathering, many actually prize this transformation. The green finish adds antique charm and helps protect the metal underneath from corrosion. We will treat your copper weathervane with a protective clear coat or polished, if you prefer to keep your copper weathervane shiny.. But for many homeowners, the evolving color is part of its timeless character.