Flèche
Flèche (also known as a spirelet) is the term used to describe a slender spire or spike, typically made from wood. It is usually placed on the ridge of a roof. The term comes from the French word for arrow (it also describes a technique used in the sport of fencing). In France, a flèche is any gothic spire.
NB Short Guide: Climate Change Adaptation for Traditional Buildings, published on 10 July 2017 by Historic Scotland, defines a fleche as: ‘A small spire on the roof ridge, normally of timber, lead or cast iron and often acting as a ventilator.’
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