How To Cut Cupola Base To Fit Roof
To do this you must first determine roof angle or make a pattern using two boards as shown in this image.
How to cut cupola base to fit roof. Preparing your roof draw a center line on the cupola base on two opposite sides these will become the angled cutouts for your roof. Since roofs have all different pitch angles the manufacturer leaves it up to the installer that s you to cut it down to size. E g a 30 square cupola would have a 24 square hole be sure not to cut any structural members. Trace a line along both inner sides of the.
You may need to use the utility knife to trim the shingles back. This becomes your cutting template. To cut the pieces that will form the sill of the barn cupola bolt a 1x6 to the saw s fence to keep the workpiece from tilting set the blade at 19 degrees and position the fence 3 4 in. Mark both sides of the cupola the same way and use a saw to cut out the angle along your marked lines.
Cut the cupola base to match your roof s pitch the base of your cupola comes square. Cut and remove only the ridge shingles and or ridge vent up to the outer edge of where the cupola will sit. Line up the pivot point of the template with the center line and make sure the corners of the template meet with both. When i opened the roof a rush of warm moist air can out.
Cut a hole in the roof that is at least 6 smaller than the inside perimeter of the cupola base. The second step in any cupola installation is to properly cut out your cupola base. First remove ridge cap where cupola will be installed. Start cuts at corners and end at center.
In order to bevel the soffit parts set the blade at 45 degrees and the fence 4 3 4 in. If you do you will need to patch this spot with vycor rubber flashing tape or flashing and shingles to prevent water intrusion. I cut the hole with my circular saw 4 inches smaller than the base on all its sides. You are only cutting away the shingles and plywood sheathing.
Take two 1x4 boards lay them on edge pushing them tight against your roof and fasten together. Mark the boards apply another screw. Use an angle finder to measure the pitch of your hinge tool then position it against the cupola base. Predrill holes in the 2 4 mounting blocks and apply silicone to the bottom of the prior to attaching them to your roofing.
Your base should now be ready to cut. This is the most difficult part of the project. Using your cutting template make a line from each corner to the centerline. A 45 degree roof can be scary take your time and have proper staging.
I knew then the added ventilation would be helpful. Mount four sections of 2 4 blocks to fit flush inside the edges of your cupola.