Cupolas

In architecture, cupolas are small, most-often dome-like, structures on top of a building, usually with windows or louvers. In the past cupolas were often used to provide a lookout or to admit light and air. Cupolas usually crown a larger roof or dome. Cupolas often appear as small buildings in their own right. Cupolas often serve as a lantern, belfry, or belvedere above a main roof. In other cases cupolas may crown a tower, spire, or turret. cupolas are found in many cultures’ architecture, The chhatri, seen in Indian architecture, fits the definition of a cupola when it is used atop a larger structure. The cupola is a development during the Renaissance of the oculus, an ancient device found in Roman architecture, but, being weatherproof, was superior for the wetter climates of northern Europe. Classic Copper offers three categories of cupolas.

In addition to our other fine products Classic Copper Works offers copper cupolas and copper cupola roof sections ready to install. Our cupolas are fabricated to accommodate your specific roof condition, whether they are being positioned on a ridge, intersecting ridges, a turret, etc.

In addition to the products we create, we also carry the Good Directions wood and vinyl cupolas and the Beach Sheet Metal Company’s beautiful line of copper cupolas. These units are self-contained units that do not require any structural framing. Most of our cupolas can be adapted to your special needs should you desire more or less height or width. Weathervanes may be added to some models for a distinctive appeal.

Custom Copper Cupolas

Classic Copper Works offers custom fabricated copper cupolas and copper cupola roof sections ready to install. Just let us know what you want and we will be happy to quote your custom cupola.

Good Directions Vinyl Cupolas

Our vinyl cupolas are beautifully designed, architecturally sound, guaranteed to withstand the elements, and they come in a range of styles and sizes to complement any home or commercial building! Good Directions vinyl cupolas are maintenance-free and built to last!

Good Directions Wood Cupolas

Our wood cupolas are beautifully designed, architecturally sound, guaranteed to withstand the elements, and they come in a range of styles and sizes to complement any home or commercial building! Good Directions wood cupolas are crafted from hand-selected Cypress to add rustic elegance to any structure.

Choosing the Proper Size Cupola

The rule of is: For every foot of building width, you should have at least one inch of cupola, or, one foot of building equals one inch of cupola. So, measure the width of your building and convert the footage directly to inches. This guideline is a minimum rule of thumb to get a cupola into proportion. 1.25″ per foot is also acceptable especially for buildings 2 stories or more. The cupola pictured in the drawing below is using the 1.25″ per foot rule.

Downloads

Cupola Mounting Instructions