Decorating, do you love doing it? A cupola is a beautiful and timeless addition to exterior surfaces. This makes it a great way to show the world how much your home means to you. It's also easy for an averagely experienced carpenter to put one up. For more information, please read on.

First, determine where the cupola will be placed.

Although cupolas tend to be placed right in the middle of roof ridges, that isn't always common practice. It is not unusual to find it placed in an unsymmetrical arrangement, especially if there is a door on one side of your house. Some homeowners will also consider adding two or three cupolas to their roofs, although they must be balanced across the roof.

Once you've figured it out, you can start to climb on the roof. Although it may seem obvious, you shouldn't be able to get up on an icy or wet roof. Although you can walk on your roof, it's best to take it slow. If necessary, use your hands and fingers to keep your balance.

A tape measure (or more, depending on your needs) should be used to trace the length of the ridge. Divide your cupola base width in half and measure that distance from your first mark. Mark these spots.

With a utility blade, carefully remove the ridges shingles from this area. You must not cut the sheathing beneath.

Next, locate your roof's pitch.

You'll need a hinged tool for measuring the pitch of your roof. This will help you when you cut the base of your cupola. This is done by attaching two 24-inch boards at each end, leaving enough space for the screws to allow the boards to be moved back and forth.

Set the hinge tool along the roof ridge. Once adjusted, place the boards on the hinge tool. Securely screw the boards together, and then lift your hinge tool from the roof. This tool will help you determine the angle to cut your cupola base.

Make sure to match the pitch of your roof with the cupola base.

Your cupola's base must be square. Roofs can have different pitch angles, so the manufacturer does not specify how the roof should be cut.

The angle finder will measure the pitch of the hinge tool. Position it against the cupola's base. Then, trace over the line and do the opposite on the other side. Cut a piece on each side with a saw.

Mounting Boards for Your Roof

The cupola will not be flush with your roof. Instead, you will screw it into two mounting boards that you place over the ridge. Use silicone to seal one side of two blocks measuring 2x4 inches.

Screw the blocks in the roof until they form an angle with the roof ridge silicone-side down. This will allow them to fit within the cupola after it is installed. Then, do the same for the other side.

Finally, seal and attach your cupola.

Attach the cupola wall to each mounting board at the edge. Apply silicone sealant to each seam once it's in place. This will keep moisture out of your roof. You can then take a look at the accent piece that has been added to your home from the ground by heading down onto the roof.