Cupolas add a little country ambiance on every kind of building, such as residential homes, farm barns, and business establishments.
They also provide additional ventilation throughout the whole structure.
In the United States, wood cupola or copper cupola with copper weathervanes on top bring a look and feel of countryside by adding a hint of traditional American architectural accent on exterior building ornamentation.
Cupolas also create an asymmetrical appeal to the structure, drawing people's eyes towards the cupola.
The term cupola traces back its etymology from the Latin word "cupula", which means "little cup or dome", due to its resemblance to an upside down cup.
It later evolved into the Italian word "cupola", which is used to date.
Cupolas usually are placed at the apex of the roof and appear to be a miniature house.
Cupolas on the rooftops provide the most efficient spot for ventilating the house, as they let the fresh air in and the hot air out of the house.
If properly constructed with sufficient size and placed in the perfect spot on the rooftop, wood cupola or copper cupola, with copper weathervanes attached on top can give your house's façade an entirely different look and feel.
Even though they seem to be much more on ornamental purposes, cupolas are also very functional, due that it lets air circulate properly inside and it provides an inexpensive light source.
Cupolas also offer exceptional ventilation for the attic through creating a natural flow of warm and moist air upwards via the louvered or window sides of the cupola.
Cupolas became popular in the United States after the Revolution period.
Cupolas can be seen on the rooftops of most American churches, cathedrals, banks, government buildings, and other establishments.
This dome-shaped structure has become the primary symbol of the spirit of American democracy.
Cupolas could be either built from copper or wood.
Wood cupola is preferred by most people.
Since they can be painted easily and allow better air circulation, since wood does not retain excessive heat.
Also, ventilation provided by the wooden cupolas eliminates risks of wood rot, mildew, or stale odors.
Copper cupola, on the other hand, are much heavier than those made with wood, but are much stronger.
People can erect such cupolas with copper weathervanes on the top of them in order to complement the structure.
Well-constructed, placed, and detailed cupolas add a reserved appearance in both new and old buildings.
Wood cupola and copper cupola can be bought with complimentary weathervanes.
From barns in the countryside to the grand government buildings in the cities, cupolas are timeless masterpieces and an architectural inspiration to building enthusiasts.