Choosing The Right Cupola, 10 Facts You Should Know

Cupolas have enchanted us throughout the centuries, and capture the beauty and serenity of the past. They add class, sophistication, or a little country charm to the roof of your buildings.

1. Cupolas add value to your exterior buildings whether remodeling or new construction. Cupolas have a history that many architectural features just can not match, creating a dramatic exterior and a welcoming atmosphere.

2. Each cupola is individually made to the customers' specific preference. In order to look their best, cupolas need to be sized proportionately to the building it will be placed upon. It is the manufactures job to help you select the cupola that best fits your vision, providing balance and proportion. The goal is to find one that fits the roof enhancing the look without overpowering it.

3. Handmade by Quality Craftsman. Built by skilled craftsman and built of the finest weather resistant materials available. Cupolas have grown synonymous with quality and craftsmanship that makes them durable year after year. An example of American heritage is a cupola painted white with a copper roof.

4. Offer you the freedom of choice. To meet your needs their are numerous designs to choose from. Whatever your preference, there is a cupola for you. They can be constructed with windows to provide a natural light or a staircase can be added to a floor size cupola. Providing a great view, or high altitude solitude to read a good book. They can also be built with louvers to provide attic ventilation. Whatever the choice they will add height and beauty to your roof.

5. Cupolas are constructed of durable materials. Built only of the finest weather resistant materials a reputable manufacture will know the appropriate material for the cupola... wood, metal or vinyl. The choice of the best materials and design will prove a long term investment. Quality construction and elegant design will age gracefully, instead of becoming dated.

6. Cut to fit the pitch of the roof. Roof pitch is a ratio for every inch a roof drops over every inch it extends horizontally. Typically a cupola will fit a six to twelve degree pitch. The bases of cupolas are cut to fit the pitch of the roof and must conform to the pitch to fit properly.

7. Installed for decorative purposes. The cupola is simply placed on the roof top after pitch has been cut and is then caulked. They provide an ornamental structure often with windows and are wired to transmit light over the environment. Window cupolas will always appear smaller then the same sized louvered cupola on any building.

8. Functional Cupola. They are designed to naturally ventilate the structure it fits on. By placing cupolas on the roof, the hot stagnant air is released through the louvered sides. A functional cupola requires a hole be cut in the roof at least six inches less then the width and length of the base. Do not cut the supporting rafters or the ridge.

9. Create Exterior Decorative Accent. Custom features are a great way to achieve a one-of-a kind look. Cupolas can be built small enough to grace the roofline of a gazebo to large ones that form a top floor that one enters from the inside via stairs. A cupola gives a focal point and draws the eye to them, and when gazed upon they project beauty.

10. Cupolas are built to last. The size of a cupola is determined by the wall height, length and width of the building they are to be placed on. For longevity it is important that they be sealed properly to provide durability, strength and workability. How much they weigh is important as there can be load stress on the buildings frame, especially with large ones. Cupolas are built to last and often serve as a landmark.

First impressions do matter. Cupolas provide the at-a-glance attractiveness sure to attract the second glance.


Copyright (c) 2010 Elda Titus