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      Weathervanes

What are the weathervanes made of?

Our Good Direction and Whitehall Weathervanes are made of pure copper for weathervane figure and spacer balls.  The directionals are comprised of solid brass.

What is antique finish or polished finish?

The antique finish is the green verdigris or "patina".  This is a coating applied to the weathervane to give it a weathered appearance.  Polished finish is a high luster copper shine that is achieved by placing weathervane on buffers.  The polished finish weathervanes will not permanently stay the bright luster, however will eventually change into the antique or green verdigris.   

How long does the polished finish last? 

Within 1 month, the weathervane will start to change and begin to tarnish.  It will naturally tarnish on its own and eventually have a verdigris finish.  The tarnishing occurs faster for those weathervanes near the ocean.

How can I keep my polished weathervane from tarnishing? 

We sell a lacquer based product called Staybrite in either 6oz or 12oz spray can.  Applying two coats to the weathervane will prevent it from changing into the antique or verdigris color.  Most weathervanes only need the 6oz spray, but we recommend the 12oz for the Extra Large Weathervanes.

Can I apply something to my polished weathervane to make it age faster? 

Yes.  Mix 1 pint of warm water, 4 tablespoons of table salt and 1 pint of white vinegar in a spray bottle.  Spray weathervane with an even coat and let dry overnight.  Repeat as necessary until desired look is achieved.

What comes with my weathervane?

Our Good Direction Weathervanes include copper figure, brass and stainless steel rod, copper spacer balls and solid brass directionals. Our Whitehall products come with copper figure, metal rod, copper spacer balls, solid brass directionals and adjustable roof mount is included.

We live by the ocean which has gusty winds.  Will my weathervane fall apart?

No.  We suggest for windy areas to use Lock-Tight (available at most hardware stores) and apply it to the threads of the two rods and tighten with pliers. We also suggest to check that the weathervane figure spins freely after installation.

How can I tell which way the wind is coming from with my weathervane?

The weathervane figure will always point into the wind or from where the wind is blowing. 

How do I mount my weathervane? 

Most people mount the weathervane on the roof.  The most popular and most affordable roof mount for the Good Directions Weathervanes is the 401AL aluminum adjustable roof mount. The Whitehall weathervanes already comes with a roof mount.  

Is it easy to assemble the weathervanes?

Yes.  Instructions are included and all you need is a screwdriver.  All the parts slide onto a rod and are secured by setscrews.

What is the diameter of the end of the pole that goes into the roof mount?

The end of the rod is 3/4" diameter

Can weathervanes be used indoors?

Yes.  You can display your weathervane on a floor base shown in our mounting/accessories category or on a mantel or shelf using the mantel base. Some ideas have been over a fireplace mantel, window sills, over kitchen cabinets, mounted on the wall or hearth.

Can I purchase just the weathervane figure?

Yes.  Deduct $15.00 from the purchase for figure only.

Which weathervane should I buy?

Selecting your weathervane is a personal choice.  Most people select a weathervane that identifies their surroundings or personality.  The most popular weathervanes have been the eagle, rooster and horse and this style has been around since the 1800's

How does the weathervane get shipped?

Most of our weathervanes ship via UPS or Fed Ex.  A few of the Extra Large Weathervanes have to ship by motor freight.

   
    Cupolas

What size of cupola should I purchase?

A good rule of thumb is: use 1.5 inches of cupola for every foot of unbroken roofline. For example:  if a roof section measures 24 feet, the minimum cupola size should be 36 inches square. See: Finding The Right Cupola Size for more information.

What are your cupolas made of?

We have two types: Vinyl or Wood.  The Vinyl Cupolas are constructed from solid vinyl plank and board that are much more substantial than other PVC or PVC coated products in the marketplace.  These cupolas are extremely durable, weather resistant and virtually maintenance free.  They don't need painting however can easily be painted. Our Wood Cupolas are made from hand-selected Northern White Pine and are beautifully designed with a natural, untreated wood finish.  The wood cupolas can be painted or stained.

How long does the polished copper roof last?

Within 1 month, the cupola copper finish will start to tarnish to a brownish color.  It will naturally tarnish on its own and eventually have a verdigris finish.  The tarnishing occurs faster for those weathervanes near the ocean. You may lightly lacquer the copper top to delay tarnishing.  However, discoloration, cracking or peeling will occur over time.

Do I need an additional extension rod for installing my weathervane into a cupola?

On Cupolas greater than 30", we recommend purchasing an additional extension rod that threads onto the rod that already comes with your weathervane.  This can be cut down to desired length.

Do I need a roof mount if purchasing a cupola?

No.  All Good Direction Cupolas come weathervane ready and with mounting hardware built inside every cupola.

What is a roof pitch?

The roof pitch refers to the angle or the steepness of your roof.  To measure your roof, use a carpenter's framing square to find the angle of a roof.  See: Finding Roof Pitch for picture example.  The Good Direction cupolas are designed for a roof pitch up to a 10" rise per foot (known as "10/12 pitch").  Most roofs are not steeper than this.  However, if the roof pitch is steeper than a 10/12 pitch, you will need to include an extension base with your cupola order. It is important to order and extension base at time of cupola order.

How do I install a Cupola?

Please see How to Install a Cupola for details.  Instructions will also come with your cupola upon delivery.

How do I secure my new weathervane to an existing cupola?

While some people install their weathervane with a roof mount on top of the cupola, it looks best to have the hardware inside the cupola.  See: Attaching weathervane to Existing Cupola for more information

How can my cupola be used?

Most of our cupolas are purchased as decorative accents for the roof, and can be used functionally for ventilation. Weathervanes or Finials are typically used at the top of cupola

Is the cupola one piece?

No.  The cupola comes in three sections - roof, middle and base - for easy installation and delivery.  See Parts of Cupola for picture

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