How to Install a Cupola | Instructions from the Pros!

See for yourself how easy it is to install one of our beautiful cupolas on your roof.

Our cupolas are relatively easy to install, especially for people experienced in home renovation projects or your local handyman. They come is three easily assembled pieces: base, midsection, and roof. Before installing your cupola, you will need the following:Tape measure

• Square
• Pencil
• Screw gun with #2 square drive bit
• Circular and/or jig saw
• Level
• (2) 1” x 3” for an angle jig
• (4) pressure treated 2” x 4” mounting blocks
• (12) 3” deck screws or lags
• Flashing for the roof peak
• Silicone caulk and caulking gun

Preparing Your Roof

First, find and mark the center of your roof. If your cupola base is 30”, measure 15” on either side of the center line. (If the base is 48” you would measure 24” on each side and so on.) Cut and remove the section of ridge vent or cap where the cupola will sit on your roof.
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Next, screw together the 1” x 3” pieces to make an angle jig that you will use as a template for your cupola base. Put only one screw in at first so you can pivot the pieces. Put the boards firmly onto each side of the roof, then secure with a second screw, as shown below.

Now use the template to mark and cut the cupola base:

• Draw a center line on the cupola base on two opposite sides - these will become the angled cutouts for your roof.
• Line up the pivot point of the template with the center line and make sure the corners of the template meet with both bottom corners of the base.
• Trace a line along both inner sides of the template and repeat these steps for the opposite side.
• Cut the base with the circular or jig saw along the lines you’ve marked.​

​Once you have cut the angled sides, you will need to cut the base of the two solid sides to match. This ensures the cupola will fit snug against your roof.
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Lastly, install a piece of flashing where the ridge vent or ridge cap was removed.
You are now ready to install the cupola base on your roof.

Installing the Cupola Base

Position the cupola base on your roof and make sure that it fits properly and sits level.
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Cut 4 pressure-treated 2” x 4” blocks to be installed on the inside of the cupola base. (You may need to cut them according to the size of the cupola base.) Install them using 3” screws or lags as shown below.

Attach the base to the blocks placing the 2” screws provided through the outside of the base and into the side of the block. Use two (2) screws per block.
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Finally, use a clear silicone to caulk the base of the cupola.

Assemble the Cupola

The cupola sections are very simple to assemble. Simply place the midsection on top of the base and attach with the 2” screws provided, using the pre-drilled holes. Then place the roof on the midsection and fasten with screws, again using the pre-drilled holes.

Affordable, Quality Cupolas from Valley Forge Cupolas and Weathervanes

For over 15 years, we have been helping customers find the cupolas of their dreams. From gazebo cupolas to custom designs, we guarantee to match you with a cupola you’ll love.

For quality and prices you can’t beat, call Valley Forge Cupolas at 1-866-400-1776.