Vaulted Ceiling Ideas: Essential Guide With Pros And Cons

Many designers praise vaulted ceilings for their grandiose features and ability to open up a room, so it’s easy to understand why they’ve become such a popular feature in many homes. However, others point out that they may be past their prime, not to mention lacking in energy efficiency.

If you’re considering adding a vaulted ceiling to your home, here are the pros and cons of this architectural element, and some financing options available to homeowners.

What Is A Vaulted Ceiling?

A vaulted ceiling is an architectural term used to describe a self-supporting arch that covers an area with a ceiling or roof. Vaulted ceiling designs have evolved over the years, and today there are many different shapes and forms.

This type of ceiling has been around for thousands of years, dating back to 6,000 BCE to neolithic villages in Cyprus. Unfired mud bricks were used to shape the dome ceilings similar to a beehive. Vaulted ceilings are one of the more popular ceiling types today and you’ll commonly find them with other design traits like exposed beams and trusses.

The Difference Between A Vaulted Ceiling And A Cathedral Ceiling

All cathedral ceilings are vaulted ceilings, but not all vaulted ceilings are cathedral ceilings. The terms vaulted ceiling and cathedral ceiling are used interchangeably to describe a ceiling that’s elevated and isn’t flat. However, historically, vaulted ceilings were domed and arched, while cathedral ceilings followed the roof pitch.

Cathedral ceilings typically have a higher ceiling design with two equal sloping sides that slant upwards to a point. Vaulted ceilings can be symmetrical or asymmetrical and do not have to follow the shape of the roof.

What Are Vaulted Ceilings Best For?

Vaulted ceilings are a popular feature in many homes but aren’t necessarily right for all homeowners. Vaulted ceilings are best for:

• Creating large, open spaces
• Making smaller spaces feel bigger
• Adding value to your home

That being said, vaulted ceilings probably aren’t right for every homeowner. If you prefer a cozy space or one that’s energy-efficient, then a vaulted ceiling may not be right for you. Additionally, vaulted ceilings occupy space that would otherwise be your attic. While many homeowners don’t use their attics, it might be a downside for some people.

Vaulted Ceiling Ideas

There are many different design features that vaulted ceilings can add to a home, such as skylight windows or a chandelier in a dining room. If you’re exploring vaulted ceiling ideas to enhance your home’s design, here are some of the most common types found in homes.

Barrel Vaulted Ceiling

A barrel vault is a half-cylindrical or half-barrel design style. The half-cylinder brings a smooth finish to the ceiling. This type of vaulted ceiling is the simplest type to add to any home. This style is found in early civilizations, including ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, but it wasn’t widely used until the Persians and the Romans adopted the design.

Barrel-vaulted ceilings can soften the edges of a room while adding height and drama to the space, making it perfect as a grand entrance or foyer entryway.

Groin Vaulted Ceiling

A groin vault is a ceiling that’s created when you intersect two barrel vault ceilings to form a 90-degree angle. Groin vaults are also known as double-barrel or cross vaults. “Groin" refers to the edge between the intersecting vaults and this style dates back to Roman architecture.

This ceiling type brings its own unique character and would work well to create a vintage decor look while providing additional vertical support to your home.

Rib Vaulted Ceiling

A ribbed vault is a ceiling that’s created when two or three diagonal arches cross to support the weight of the ceiling or roof. Ribbed ceilings were a popular feature in medieval buildings like Gothic cathedrals. Ribbed vaults aren’t as common in homes today, but it would work well to create more of a medieval appearance.

Dome Vaulted Ceiling

A dome vaulted ceiling is one with a central, recessed dome, like the United States Capitol Building. This type of vaulted ceiling is popular in home entryways and other small spaces. It could also work well to create a sophisticated element for a primary bedroom, office, circular staircase or more.

Fan Vaulted Ceiling

A fan vault ceiling is one with ribs that are spaced an equal distance apart, resembling a fan. This type of vaulted ceiling typically runs the length of the room and was first popular in English Gothic-style architecture. The largest fan vault in the world can be seen at King's College Chapel in the English city of Cambridge.

Pros And Cons Of Vaulted Ceilings

Vaulted ceilings have some major benefits, which is why they’re such a popular feature in many homes. But they aren’t right for everyone. Below we’ll share some of the pros and cons of vaulted ceilings so you can decide if they’re right for you.

Pros

• Adds dramatic grandeur and luxury: Vaulted ceilings can help add to your home’s atmosphere, especially if you’re looking for major impact and feelings of grandeur.
  
• Increases natural light: Vaulted ceilings can open up a room and bring in more natural light. Homeowners can include additional or larger windows or add a dramatic skylight.
  
• Creates the feeling of larger space: Smaller rooms can sometimes feel claustrophobic. A vaulted ceiling creates a sense of openness and can make the space seem larger and airier.
  
• Complements many home styles: Because there are so many design options available, this home feature is flexible and can go well with many different home styles and interior designs.
  
• Can add value to a home: Vaulted ceilings can add value to a home. High, arched vaults are a unique home feature and many buyers are willing to pay more for them.

Cons

• Less energy-efficient: Because of the amount of unused space, vaulted ceilings can waste heating and cooling energy. Homeowners may see their utility bills increase with the addition of vaulted ceilings.
  
• Maintenance can be difficult: You might need a ladder or special equipment to dust and clean a higher ceiling. You could find that your ceiling goes without dusting and other maintenance.
  
• Costly to build: Vaulted ceilings are more expensive to add than traditional flat ceilings.
  
• Risk of looking dated: Home trends constantly change and vaulted ceilings might not be perceived as a timeless interior design choice.

How To Convert To Vaulted Ceilings

There’s no doubt that adding a vaulted ceiling to an existing home is more difficult than adding it to a new build, but it can definitely be done. First, adding vaulted ceilings shouldn’t be a DIY job, and it’s important to hire a contractor to do the work.

You’ll likely also need the help of a structural engineer to assess and see if you can change your roof’s structure. You’ll also need to find out if eliminating square footage in your attic — which is often necessary with a vaulted ceiling — will leave you with enough space for proper ventilation. Your roof is essential to the structural integrity of the home, so safety is also a big concern when converting to a vaulted ceiling.

Once you’ve hired the necessary professionals and are ready to start the job, the process will include demolition of the current ceiling, framing of the new ceiling, insulation, drywall, electrical and more.

How Much Does It Cost To Vault A Ceiling?

Creating and understanding your renovation budget is critical, especially with a costly project like vaulting ceilings. According to HomeAdvisor, the cost of vaulting a ceiling can range from $16,000 to $24,000, with an average cost of $19,200. The job generally costs $60 per square foot, but this doesn’t include the price of raising a roof. The cost to raise a roof ranges from $15,000 to $125,000.

Labor makes up about 75% of the total cost due to its complexity and the amount of time required to do the job. The total cost depends on other factors as well, including required permits, the type of ceiling, the foundation you have and the material your house is made from.

Remember that the cost of vaulted ceilings — or any home renovation — will vary from one house to the next, and it’s important to get a quote for your specific situation.

Financing Options For Vaulting A Ceiling

There are several types of home improvement loans available to finance a larger project like vaulting a ceiling.

• Cash-out refinance: A cash-out refinance allows homeowners to borrow money against the available equity in their homes. With this type of loan, homeowners take out a larger mortgage to pay off their old mortgage and the difference is paid out in cash. The funds from a cash-out refinance can be used to finance home improvement projects or renovations.
  
• Personal loan: A personal loan is a form of installment credit. It’s money you borrow from a bank or other financial institution delivered in a lump-sum payment. Once you receive the funds, repayment typically begins within 30 days. Personal loans offer lower interest rates than credit cards, but they are not typically recommended for more expensive projects.
  
• Home equity loan: A home equity loan allows homeowners to borrow money by using the built-up equity in their homes as collateral. Borrowers receive a lump-sum payment that is repaid in monthly installments according to the terms of the loan, which is typically 10, 20 or 30 years. The amount you can take out depends on the lender, but most require you to keep at least 10% - 20% equity in the home. Using your home as collateral also means it’s easier to qualify for a lower interest rate.

The Bottom Line: Is A Vaulted Ceiling Right For Your Home?

Vaulted ceilings have been around for many years and remain a popular home feature today. They offer plenty of benefits, including making your home seem larger and more open. However, vaulted ceilings also have some downsides, including energy waste and the high cost to install them.

If you’re considering a vaulted ceiling in your home, there are a few financing options available. Apply for a cash-out refinance to finance the renovation of your existing ceiling.