About Cupolas
Your cupola choices today are as variegated as the history they have. You can choose anything from catwalks and belvederes to domes and miniature houses perched on top of your roof. Materials for their construction can vary almost as much as the architectural styles that you have to choose from. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
-
From the 8th Century to Today
-
The early 8th century marks the first usage of cupolas. Islamic mosques incorporated the architectural design, reaching across towers. These cupolas were used largely for prayer rooms. All across Europe churches began incorporating the design as Islam began spreading. St. Petersburg, Russia, is recognized by its use of cupolas in its dome-topped churches. When the trend finally reached England, it was destined to become adapted by Americans, too. Recognizing the inherent practical benefits, it was in India that the cupola was miniaturized to approximately three to four feet, being converted into a rendition suitable for the top of an individual home.
The cupola's evolution has instilled it into modern architectural rendition as a mostly decorative addition to the individual dwelling.
Form Meets Function
-
Although the cupola can be an attractive architectural accent to any dwelling, it does not have to be limited to its ornamental beauty, such as is often the case on top of gazebos and homes. It can provide practical functions, as well. The cupola can be utilized for ventilation, allowing heat to escape, and it can also be used for natural light.
-
The Right Cupola for You
-
With many styles available to choose from, from the classic dome shape to the miniature house shape, proportion is one of the most important details to consider. Elda Titus, writing for Searchwarp.com, had this to say about the matter of size of your cupola: "A good rule of thumb is at least one inch of cupola base for every foot of unbroken roofline. Cupolas sizes are rounded up and are usually built in two, four or six inch increments."
If your roofline is longer than 100 feet, you should consider breaking it up with two cupolas. Another possibility is to place a larger one in the center with two smaller ones; one placed near either end.
Materials Considerations
-
Cupola construction can utilize wood, typically pine or cedar for their weathering ability, metal, vinyl and composites. Many times, the cap is made from copper, or cedar shakes, but it can also include shingles and tiles.
Your Best Choice
-
You best choice, when it comes to the proper installation, is to let a professional build or install your new cupola. If you are competently handy, then you may want to consider the satisfaction of a do-it-yourself kit, or even design your own. Home improvement stores can be a great source of information related to this for further information, as well as many websites, or the phone book.
-
