A Cupola is a dome-shaped ornamental structure which is mounted on the top of large roof. They are also defined as small roofed structures placed on the roof of buildings. It is used to admit light and for ventilation purposes. A cupola is basically a small addition of the main roof placed at the roofline of many barns, stables, garages, gazebos and colonial-style homes.

We can differentiate cupola on the basis of its construction. A simple cupola consists of a smaller structure mounted on the top of the main roof. Belvedere cupola consists of a stairway inside the building which is used to reach the cupola. It is also known as widow's walk. Lanterns cupola consists of small windows to illuminate the areas.

Cupolas are generally made up of wood with either a metal or shingle roof. Sides are covered with wooden slats known as louvers which allows light to come in and air circulation. Most of the modern cupolas are ornamental. To measure the required size of cupola you should measure the section of roofline and then make base one inch wide for every foot of roofline.

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