Tips for Placing a Sundial on Your Patio

Do you have a patio space that is free from blockage and receives direct sunlight? If yes, why don’t you set up a sundial that will automatically tell the time for you? Whereas this may sound like a good idea, setting up a functional sundial is not as easy as it seems. It would help if you determined the correct height of the gnomon, the dimensions of the dial plate, and the exact position where you will place your sundial. Generally, where you end up placing a sundial will be determined by which one of the available radius patio covers in Las Vegas you choose. Here are a few tips to help you set up a functioning sundial.

Identify the Ideal Date for Placing a Sundial

There are only four days in a year that the solar time and actual time coincide. These are the best dates for installing a sundial. The dates are April 15, June 15, September 1, and December 24. Choose one of these dates to set up your sundial.

Pick the Best Location

Pick out a location in your patio that receives direct sunlight throughout the day. You can decide to place it on the ground or a pedestal.

Installing the Sundial

Position the sundial such that the gnomon faces true north. You can use a compass to determine Earth’s true north from your location or by using your latitude and the National Center for Environmental Magnetic Calculator.

Calibrate the Dial Plate

Once the gnomon is aligned correctly and does not produce a shadow at noon, you need to calibrate the sundial by following the time on your clock and marking the sundial at different intervals. You can also calibrate it by using a geometric protractor.

To ensure your sundial is always accurate, check its time with your clock frequently. You can maintain its accuracy by resetting it on each of the four recommended dates.