Vaulted ceilings are hardly a new concept. In fact, they were around a few hundred years before Michelangelo got his hands dirty painting the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Their popularity continues
today because of their ability to enlarge a room and allow in natural light. There are always two sides to every story and vaulted ceilings are no different. Here’s what you need to know before investing in a home with vaulted ceilings.
In Favor Of
Natural Light: In the home, natural light makes everything look better, plain and simple! It’s also great for enhancing your mood and energy. Homes with vaulted ceilings have an abundance of
Elegance: Since they are typically found in more upscale homes, vaulted ceilings are perceived to provide a space with an upscale vibe. Additionally, if you’ve got a million dollar view, the extra window space afforded by vaulted ceilings can allow you to showcase that beauty.
Embellishment Potential: With the additional space provided by a vaulted ceiling, you’ve got the ability to spruce up the “fifth wall” of a room with enlarged light fixtures, skylights and exposed beams.
Expansion of Space: Just as wearing vertical stripes can make someone appear taller and leaner, vaulted ceilings can create the illusion of a larger room.
Reasons to Shy Away
Upkeep: Tasks such as dusting, painting, installing a ceiling fan and changing a light bulb require a ladder with a vaulted ceiling.
Energy Efficiency: Due to their design, vaulted ceilings have minimal room left over for insulation. This makes these types of insulation projects more complicated and expensive. Failure to install installation can increase energy costs and make the room overly hot in the summer and chilly in the winter. In colder climates, improper insulation also puts your home at risk for ice dams.
Acoustics: Vaulted ceilings expand the size of the room and are known for causing sound waves to bounce intermittently. Depending on ceiling height, results can include echoes or difficulty hearing conversations and television or stereo volume.
Expense of Building: Rooms with a vaulted ceiling cost more to build than a room with a lower ceiling with the same square footage because the room requires additional paint and drywall. A vaulted ceiling does not automatically guarantee a higher appraisal because you do not have more useable square footage than an identical home with lower ceilings.
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