Are you planning a remodeling of the exterior of your barn this spring or summer? Perhaps that roof needs a touch up, or you just want to spruce up the outside of your house with some fresh decorations?

If you cant' decide what to do with your roof or maybe you feel like its missing something, consider adding a cupola. Cupolas are those small dome-like structures that you commonly see on top of barns or elegant homes. They come in all shapes and sizes, even materials such as vinyl, copper and metal.

Cupolas are a great way to add classic design or architectural style to your barn. They break through the horizon making chimneys look like a distant cousin.

Below are 10 quick tips to consider when shopping around for a cupola for your barn, roof, garage or gazebo this season.

1.Being that a cupola is a permanent attachment to your roof, it is important that you make sure it is the best quality. Most commonly recommended is a style of cupola that requires no-maintenance. This would include weather resistant material such as vinyl PVC board which is also cost efficient.

2. As an addition to making sure the base of your cupola is made with a no-maintenance material, the same rules apply to the cupola roof. You need to make sure the roofing material is also weather resistant. Copper sheeting tends to hold up even through tough weather (it also looks very elegant).

3. There are also ways to customize your cupola, such as with windows or louvers decorating each side, and in some cases even both, personal preference applies. A fact to keep in mind, the more louvers for each side of the cupola you go with the pricier it becomes.

4. Vented window cupolas allow wind to pass through them easily and are a great addition to sheds and attics. In warmer climates, the vented windows can be left clear. If you're going to use a vented window cupola in a four-season region, consider filling it in with stained glass for a beautiful design and winter weather insulation.

5. Another tip you should know before going to a seller is the pitch of your roof (in other words the angle of your roof). Also, add a couple inches to the base for clearance.

6. As mentioned before, cupolas come in different shapes. The typical barn cupola design is normally four sided , however if you are looking for a more custom shape, feel free to add a couple more sides.

7.There is a variety of roofs available depending on personal preference and design of the barn. To name a few, copper bells, copper concave roofs, crown moldings are among the typical roof choices for a cupola.

8. If you're considering the purchase of a cupola for a barn or shed, make sure the cupola has a standard hole and interior mount for weathervanes.

9. If weathervanes don't appeal to you don't sweat it, there are other finials such as a distinct spire or other ornaments to choose from.

10. Make sure the company you select to purchase your cupola from isn't using cheap products or products that weather easily to build your cupola. If a cupola company you are considering uses plastic, fiberglass, plywood, or a metal that easily rusts - consult another company.