How do I install a decorative cupola on my roof?

Do you love decorating? Cupolas add a timeless and distinctive touch to exterior surfaces. It is a thoughtful update that shows how much you love your home. A moderately skilled carpenter can also install one. Continue reading for more details.

First, decide where the cupola will go.

Cupolas are generally placed in the middle of the roof ridge. However, this is not an exact rule. You may find it in an asymmetrical arrangement if your home has a door on one side. Some homeowners may even choose to have three or more cupolas, but they will need to be proportioned evenly across the roof.

Once you have it figured out, it is time to get on top of the roof. It may sound obvious, but it is important to remember that you shouldn't get on top of a roof that is wet or icy. It is possible to walk on your roof; however, you should take it slow and use your hands to balance.

Use a tape measure or two to measure the length of the ridge. Make a mark at the center or wherever you have decided to place the cupola. Divide the cupola's base width by half and measure the distance between your first and second marks. Each of these points should be marked.

Use a utility knife to carefully remove any ridge shingles. Be careful not to cut through the sheathing below.

Next, find your roof's pitch.

To measure your roof's pitch and to make sure you have the right angle when cutting your cupola base, create a hinged tool. You will need to attach two boards of 24-inch each at their ends. The screw should be loose enough that you can move the boards back and forth.

Place the hinge tool on your roof ridge. Adjust the boards to fit snugly. Attach the boards tightly together and take your hinge tool off the roof. This will be used to determine the angle for your cupola base.

To match your roof's pitch, cut the cupola base.

Your cupola base should be square. Because roofs come in different pitches, the manufacturer doesn't give the option to cut the cupola to the right size.

An angle finder can be used to measure the pitch for your hinge tool and then place it against the cupola base. This line should be traced. Next, do the same for the other side. You can use a saw to trim a section on each side.

Mounting boards for your roof

You won't be able to place the cupola flush against your roof. Instead, screw it into two mounting boards and position them over the ridge. Apply silicone to one of the blocks.

Next, screw the blocks onto the roof, silicone-side up, so they form an angle above the roof ridge and fit into the cupola once it's been installed. Repeat the process for the opposite side.

Final step: Attach and seal your cupola.

Fix the cupola wall to the mounting boards at the edges. After it is firmly fixed, seal each seam with silicone sealant. This will stop moisture from entering your roof. Next, take a moment to enjoy the new accent piece on your roof from the ground.