Although similar in the feeling of spaciousness they impart, the cathedral and vaulted ceilings are actually quite different in structure and appearance. Both styles offer a dramatic architectural effect and make rooms seem larger than they are.
History
have been popular since the Middle Ages. Cathedral churches are so much a part of history that many people today refer to any tall ceiling area similar to one in a church as a cathedral ceiling.
Technically, a church being officially designated as a cathedral has nothing to do with its ceiling or architecture. According to the Catholic encyclopedia, a cathedral is the chief church of a diocese, where the bishop has his seat, or throne.
Based on the old Roman basilica, the architecture of the earliest medieval Christian cathedrals was Romanesque style and later ones were built in the Gothic style. These dramatic structures often incorporated cathedral ceilings, elaborate architectural details and fantastic art work.
The word cathedral is derived from the Greek word kathedra and the Latin cathedra, which means throne or elevated seat.
Vaulted means "built in the form of a vault" or "arched."
Vaulted Ceiling
In a room with a vaulted ceiling, one wall of the room will be taller than the opposing wall. The ceiling slants toward the lower wall. The vaulted ceiling is less expensive to construct than the cathedral ceiling, while still creating a sense of spaciousness.
Cathedral Ceiling
The center point of the is higher than the walls. It is a high sloping ceiling attached directly to the roof trusses. The cathedral ceiling rises to the top of the house.
Although they're dramatic and beautiful, cathedral ceilings do have their drawbacks. The height makes it difficult to paint the ceiling or change light bulbs. The extra air space increases heating and cooling costs. Adding a cathedral ceiling to an existing home involves more work and more expense than adding a vaulted ceiling.
Adding a Vaulted or Cathedral Ceiling
An experienced carpenter can usually add a vaulted ceiling or a cathedral ceiling to an existing home, even if the room has a flat ceiling. In order to add a cathedral ceiling, the roof trusses need to be wide enough (around 12 inches) to allow for proper ventilation and insulation. If they're too thin, you won't be able to insulate the house. If you fill the gaps with insulation, there won't be proper ventilation.
Structural Change Requirements
Extensive modifications will require a special building permit. Roof rafters are a vital structural support for your home. Before making any structural changes, consult a structural engineer or an architect.
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