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When designing or remodeling a home, one of the critical decisions is choosing the right ceiling style. Vaulted and cathedral ceilings are popular options, each with aesthetic and functional benefits. But what exactly is the difference between the two? And how do you determine if a vaulted or cathedral ceiling is better suited for your space?
We’ll explore the nuances between vaulted ceiling vs cathedral ceiling to help you decide on your next project. We’ll cover the definitions, visual differences, pros and cons, costs, and best uses for each ceiling type. Whether you’re looking to open up a small space, add architectural interest, or increase resale value, understanding vaulted vs cathedral ceilings will ensure your roof style perfectly fits your needs and style.
Before diving into the key distinctions, let’s level set definitions for both ceiling types:
A vaulted ceiling, sometimes called an arched ceiling, is a continuous ceiling with no horizontal divisions. It has a curved or sloped shape that rises upwards from the room’s walls. The slope is more gradual than a cathedral ceiling. Vaulted ceilings often utilize diagonal framing members called ridge beams that outline the curve.
Vaulted ceilings have an arched shape similar to a barrel or tunnel. They tend to be lower in height than cathedral ceilings and have a rounded roofline. The curved shape gives them a cozy, cocoon-like aesthetic.
A cathedral ceiling has a very steep triangular pitched or sloped shape. The slope rises vertically from the walls to meet at a center ridge or apex point. Cathedral ceilings can utilize truss, rafter, or post and beam construction.
Cathedral ceiling heights can range from standard 8-foot ceilings up to 30 feet or higher at their peaked point. The dramatic upward slant gives them a spacious, airy quality reminiscent of grand cathedrals, hence the name.
Now that we’ve defined the terms let’s explore the key differences in their shapes and structures.
Though both vaulted and cathedral ceilings offer tall, inclined shapes rather than flat planes, there are several visual distinctions between vaulted ceiling vs cathedral ceiling:
| Attribute | Vaulted Ceiling | Cathedral Ceiling |
| Shape | Gradual rounded arch | Steep triangular pitch |
| Slope Angle | More gradual | Very steep |
| Height | 8-16 ft typical | 12-30+ ft typical |
| Framing | Curved beams | Angled rafters |
| Aesthetic | Intimate, cozy | Grand, airy |
| Lighting | Can be trickier | Demands ample natural light |
| Views | Limited outlook | Expansive vistas |
| Attic Space | Sometimes preserved | Eliminated |
| Cost | Lower | Much higher |
| Construction | Simpler | More complex |
| Spaciousness | Feels larger but still cozy | True expansive volume |
| Uses | Smaller rooms, traditional decor | Great rooms, modern decor |
The main difference is in the slope angle. Vaulted ceilings have a more gradually sloping curve. Think of a tunnel or half-circle shape. Cathedral ceilings have a very steep triangular slope from wall to roof apex, reminiscent of the inside of a cathedral.
Vaulted ceilings have a rounded, arched roofline, while cathedral ceilings have an angular peaked roofline.
Vaulted ceilings often use curved beams to create an arched shape. Cathedral ceilings typically use angled rafter framing that meets at a central roof ridge.
Due to their steep angle, cathedral ceilings are typically much higher than vaulted ceilings. Cathedral ceilings can be up to 30 feet tall or higher at their peak, while vaulted ceilings range from 8-10 feet up to around 16 feet.
The triangular shape and increased height of cathedral ceilings make them feel more open and airy than the lower, cocoon-like environment of a vaulted ceiling.
Now that we’ve compared the appearances, let’s examine each ceiling type’s functional differences and benefits.
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Beyond just aesthetics, vaulted and cathedral ceilings each offer their practical advantages:
Both vaulted and cathedral ceilings create unbroken ceiling planes free of dividing walls or dropped ceilings. This makes the space feel more open and expansive.
The inclined shape gives the illusion of extra height and vertical space, making rooms feel more significant than their footprint. Cathedral ceilings offer greater perceived height thanks to their steeper angles.
The upward diagonal shapes allow for increased airflow, which can help regulate interior temperatures. The lack of attic space and horizontal divisions also improves air circulation.
In rooms with vaulted or cathedral ceilings and large windows, the upward slope enables unobstructed outdoor views that feel more connected to the interior space.
Compared to bare flat ceilings, the dynamic slopes create architectural visual interest and dramatics. Exposed beams and interior roof framing add textural appeal.
Sloping ceilings lend themselves to flexible lighting options like pendants, accents, skylights, and overhead lighting, which would be more challenging with a bare, flat ceiling.
The openness of vaulted and cathedral ceilings allows for versatile furniture arrangements uninterrupted by interior walls. Spaces feel more customizable.
Even without increasing the square footage, vaulted and cathedral ceilings make rooms feel significantly more extensive and more voluminous. There is a spaciousness that flat ceilings can’t achieve.
Now that we’ve explored the form and function let’s compare the pros and cons of each style.
Cozy, intimate feel: The rounded tunnel-like shape provides a warm, cocoon-like interior environment perfect for more intimate family spaces.
Gradual verticality: The slope rises at a more relaxed pace that feels comfortable and inviting rather than overly dramatic.
More straightforward to incorporate: Vaulted ceilings can be added to attic conversions or other rooms where a full cathedral ceiling isn’t possible due to the roofline.
Lower cost: Vaulted ceilings are generally more straightforward and less expensive to construct than cathedral ceilings’ more complex framing.
Usable attic space: In some cases, incorporating a vaulted ceiling still allows for maintaining a functional attic area for storage above the main space.
Lower height: Vaulted ceilings offer less vertical headroom than cathedral ceilings, which may make some spaces still feel constrained.
Disrupted attic: Even in cases where some attic area remains, the vaulted area may impact attic usability and storage.
Potentially dark interior corners: The lower rounded shape can leave some corners dark and shadowed in rooms with only one or two windows. Additional lighting may be needed.
Complex lighting: Though flexible, lighting vaulted ceilings effectively requires more thought and precision placement of fixtures.
Unique furnishings needs: The coved shape may require more customized built-in cabinetry and furnishings that fit the rounded walls rather than standard rectangular items.
Grand, awe-inspiring aesthetic: The dramatically upward-angled shape evokes a sense of expansive grandeur reminiscent of majestic cathedrals.
Abundant height: Cathedral ceilings can reach 30 feet or higher at the roof peak, creating a very open, airy interior with ample perceived space.
Ideal for great rooms: The comprehensive open layout is perfect for great rooms where a feeling of spaciousness is desired, such as in living room/kitchen open concept designs.
Exposed architectural elements: Cathedral ceilings lend themselves to exposed beams, rafters, and other architectural roof framing and details.
Unobstructed outdoor views: The steep inward slope provides expansive outward views unhampered by the roofline.
Increased construction challenges: The complex angled framing is more difficult and expensive than bare horizontal ceilings.
No attic space: The steep slope eliminates the possibility of usable attic space for storage or living areas.
Challenging to retrofit: Converting existing horizontal ceilings to cathedral ceilings may be cost-prohibitive or structurally unfeasible.
Heating and cooling issues: The increased volume and ceiling height can lead to more excellent heating and cooling difficulties and expenses.
Lighting challenges: The dramatic angles and heights make effectively lighting cathedral ceilings more complex and dependent on windows.
Limited interior partitioning: There is little opportunity for interior dividing walls, making individual rooms more challenging to incorporate.
Tricky to furnish: The lack of vertical walls and abundant overhead space can make cathedral ceilings challenging to furnish and decorate in a balanced way.
Now that we’ve thoroughly compared the pros and cons let’s discuss ideal uses and applications.
Though beautiful in any setting when well-executed, some spaces lend themselves better to vaulted or cathedral ceilings based on factors like room size, activities, and exposure:
Another critical consideration is cost. Constructing either ceiling style requires more labor, framing materials, and design expertise than bare horizontal ceilings. Cathedral ceilings will be the more expensive due to their incredible structural intricacy.
For new construction or additions, figure 15% to 30% more than a flat ceiling of the same footprint due to the additional curved framing. Retrofitting an existing space with a vaulted ceiling could range from $12,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on factors like the construction method and the complexity of integrating with the existing structure.
Cathedral ceiling construction requires more advanced engineering and carpentry skills to execute well. New cathedral ceiling installation typically ranges from 30% to 50% more than standard ceilings per square foot. Retrofitting a cathedral ceiling averages $30,000 to $50,000+ depending on the room size, roof structure, and ceiling height. The steep pitches also require thicker insulation with higher material costs.
In summary, cathedral ceilings involve more complexity and expertise, resulting in a notably higher price point versus vaulted ceilings on average.
If you’re still undecided between options, ask yourself these five questions:
Carefully weighing these factors will lead you to the perfect ceiling style for aesthetic appeal and functional performance.
Yes, it is possible to incorporate vaulted and cathedral ceilings in different rooms of the same home. The choice comes down to selecting the right ceiling shape for each space’s size, light sources, activities, views, and overall aesthetic goals. For example, a cathedral ceiling may suit a two-story great room, while vaulted ceilings work for adjoining hallways or bedrooms.
Vaulted and cathedral ceilings are more expensive to heat and cool than bare flat ceilings because the sloped surfaces increase the room’s volume and exposure. However, the lower height and more gradual slope of a vaulted ceiling means slightly better energy efficiency than a towering cathedral ceiling. Proper insulation helps minimize issues.
Yes, vaulted ceilings are a great way to visually make a small room feel larger and taller. The key is ensuring adequate lighting, such as multiple windows or sufficient artificial lighting. The cozier, cocoon-like environment created by vaulted ceilings makes them ideal for small bedrooms, dining rooms, and attic conversions where a dramatic cathedral ceiling would feel overpowering.
Not at all! Cathedral ceilings remain famous in contemporary, modern, and industrial-style homes. Their grand, awe-inspiring quality makes them ideal for great rooms and spaces where a spacious feel is desired. Vaulted ceilings fit better with more traditional or craftsman styles.
Yes, vaulted and cathedral ceilings allow furniture, cabinets, and shelving against the walls and do not require keeping walls clear like some other ceiling types. Be mindful of the ceiling slope and allow for appropriate vertical clearance when selecting pieces. Built-in cabinetry custom-made to match the angles will integrate most seamlessly.
Whether searching for a breathtaking cathedral ceiling or a cozy vaulted design, thoughtfully weighing factors like room size, activities, style, lighting, and budget will lead to the perfect ceiling for your space. A vaulted ceiling offers a subtly vertical feel, making even small rooms more expansive yet intimate. Meanwhile, cathedral ceilings provide grand overhead volume ideal for making a bold statement in great rooms and contemporary spaces.
Keep these critical comparisons of vaulted ceiling vs cathedral ceiling in mind:
Whichever you choose, a vaulted or cathedral ceiling adds architectural interest, valuable square footage, and ample natural light compared to a bare, flat ceiling. Enjoy envisioning the ideal sloped ceiling design for your next interior space!
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