What is a cupola?

Pronounced COOP-o-lah, this product adds an artistic element, complementing other architectural aspects of a building.  But because of the additional air flow space provided by a cupola, it is also a highly effective roof ventilator.

Click gallery images to enlarge. Use left and right arrows to navigate larger views. Click a larger image to return to gallery view.

Roof ventilation is one of the key factors contributing to a durable roof system and a comfortable home.  Many large and enduring structures have survived to prove the wisdom of a good ventilation system.  But if adequate roof ventilation is neglected, heating and cooling systems fail sooner, mold and other contaminants begin to thrive, and even roof shingles suffer a shortened life.

Current American codes require a minimum of one square foot of free air space per each 150 square feet of attic floor space.  Our cupolas and roof vents ventilate nearly 90% of their square feet of exposure, unlike many other many other ventilation devices which provide only 30%-50% efficiency.  For example, some ridge vents claim to ventilate one square foot of free air space per eight feet of their length.  Unfortunately, this is problematic because it assumes the ridge vent is properly installed and continues to remain clean and unobstructed by dust and debris over time.  It is, in fact, common for ridge vents to become clogged, and even to permit moisture to penetrate the interior of the attic space, which naturally increases the potential for structural decay.

By contrast, our cupolas prevent moisture penetration due to a time-tested louver design, which provides baffling to restrict even blowing rain, while providing a superior volume of air flow.  And because they are constructed of metal rather than wood, they never need painting.  There is no caulking or adhesive to deteriorate, as our designs are self-sealing, due to hand-crafted fitting and soldering.

Each of our cupolas come with the kind of flashing kit that provides a long-term, water-tight seal.  Thus re-roofing is never a problem, because once properly installed, the cupola and its flashing never again need to be disturbed.  They are simply designed to remain problem-free for the life of the structure they are installed on.