A Guide to Vaulted Ceilings
Although in recent years, the vaulted ceiling is increasing in popularity, the first traces of a vaulted ceiling go back to the neolithic age in Cyprus. This was also the place where the first evidence of an upper floor settlement was recorded. In this article, we will discuss the usefulness and other design aspects if you are considering transforming your existing ceiling into a vaulted ceiling or if you are building new.
While history has its say, perhaps the reason why the vaulted ceiling has gained immense popularity especially in the contemporary design era is because they are one of the very few ceiling designs that conveniently tick both the functional and aesthetic boxes. Such ceilings are quite common in gothic architectures and particularly barn structures which are in fact now one of the popular choices for house conversions across the UK.
What makes vaulted ceilings work is their vaulted design that has evolved from centuries. The fact is, such arched designs have today rather become a need and hold great relevance to the modern yet increasingly congesting design outcomes.
What is a Vaulted Ceiling?
Architecturally, a vaulted ceiling is a type of ceiling design that extends above the walls up to the center. Such a type of ceiling creates a voluminous and airy space while make for a grandeur atmosphere inside the house.
What Can a Vaulted Ceiling Do to Your House?
Incorporating a vaulted ceiling can transform the character of your house at an instant. By creating a sloping area exceeding the existing flat ceiling height, they create a heightened space above opening the floodgates for natural light to gush in. If you are purely for the aesthetics, then a vaulted ceiling will make your space look quite dramatic and stunning as they result in an open yet elegant space that will elevate the appeal of your home.
If you are looking to make a statement, then considering a vaulted ceiling can be a great option.
What Type of Vaulted Ceiling Fits Your House?
The type of vaulted ceiling that best suits your house depends on various factors such as the type of existing ceiling, size, proportions, and style of the place where you are planning this change. Let’s look at a few types based on their structural characteristics.
1. Cathedral Ceiling
Cathedral ceilings are characterised by two sloping ceilings that join at the center to form a ridge. This triangular ridge formation creates a symmetry at the top adding height and flare to a space.
Cathedral ceilings are best suited for open-plan living areas.
2. Barrel Vaults
If you are looking for an old-school classical touch to your home, then barrel vault ceilings can be your best fit. They are characterised by an arch formation that flows in continuity through narrow & long spaces and are synonymous to their name forming a half cylindrical shape.
Barrel vaults are best suited for long narrow hallways or an entryway.
3. Dome Vaults
Dome vaults feature a spherical dome like shape at the top. Most dome vaults feature an arched or rounded shape that curve upwards from the side walls and culminate at the center point.
Dome vaults are best suited for small rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and office spaces.
4. Groin Vault
A groin vault ceiling is created when two semi-cylindrical vaults intersect each other such that they create a cross design and patterns with prominent edges called groins. These vaults offer high structural integrity because of multiple intersections and are quite intricate in terms of design and structure.
Groin vaults are best suited for spaces with large open areas, large hallways, public institutions, museums, and similar commercial places where grandeur and drama are desired.
Why Should You Incorporate a Vaulted Ceiling?
The Benefits of Vaulted Ceilings
- Maximum inflow of natural light through skylights, velux windows as a result of the heightened space.
- A dead/wasted space can be opened up and made functional use of.
- Creates a sense of the spectacular, grandeur and adds the element of drama into the space.
- Vaulted ceilings can create a highly functional space as well as an aesthetically pleasing space.
- The exposed beams add character to the space thus creates a sense of charm with style.
What are the Limitations of a Vaulted Ceiling?
- Maintenance can be a worry as it may be a difficult task to clean the dust, change the lightbulbs because of their intricate structure and height.
- A vaulted ceiling can result in increased energy costs as they warrant a larger heating and cooling space. They can be difficult to heat in winter and cool in summer and may lead to higher energy bills.
- A vaulted ceiling can drive more investment in terms of initial cost. This will include significant framing construction costs, and more importantly the remodelling cost when adding a vaulted ceiling to an existing house.
Key Considerations When Planning a Vaulted Ceiling
1. Size of the Room
Total height and size of the room will have a great influence on the type of vaulted ceiling you will be choosing. Adding a vault will give the illusion of a larger room, so before you jump in consider asking your builder whether your space is conducive to a vaulted ceiling.
2. Material Selection
Stick to materials that comply with the building regulations and the desired aesthetics such that they ensure proper sound proofing and other considerations.
3. Insulation
Insulating your vault is key to manage temperature control. Ensure sealing of gaps to not let hot air escape the space as the surface area of a vaulted ceiling is generally larger.
4. Lighting
Installing and selecting proper fixtures of lighting is critical as vaults typically are built at an extended height. Consider pendant lights or spotlights to ensure the full effect of lighting.
5. Ventilation
Planning installation of windows and skylights is one of the crucial aspects when it comes to vaulted ceilings as they are natural facilitators of natural light. Velux windows, roof lights will require careful installations.
6. Structural Engineer
Structural considerations make a significant impact when building a vaulted ceiling. Only a structural engineer will be able to assess whether the existing structure is capable of supporting the vaulted ceiling or not.
7. Maintenance
Giving ample importance to maintaining the vault is key as post construction may create issues with cleaning, repair, and other maintenance works. Talk to your builder and plan carefully.
Do you Need Planning Permission to Build a Vaulted Ceiling?
Planning permission is usually not required either to replace a ceiling or building a new vaulted ceiling and is usually considered permitted development. If you are in a conservation area or is a listed building, then planning permission will be necessary.
While planning permission may not be required, you may need to comply with building regulations. Consulting a structural engineer is key to ensure you adhere to standards.
Conclusion
Vaulted ceilings can add up to 5-20% of your budget, so be conscious of the material costs, type of ceiling that suits you while giving more cognisance to energy efficiency. All these if planned in an early stage will ensure a happy outcome in the long run.
Vaulted ceilings can really redefine your place making it more spacious, airy, and full of ventilation & natural light. If you are planning one, embrace it with all joy but take the help of a structural engineer or a similar professional.
Need guidance on vaulted ceilings and similar intricate constructions? Contact your best experts at Extension Architecture who have years of experience in successfully executing complex constructions especially being specialists in extensions and conversions. Contact us for more details.
