What to make a change to your home this spring or summer? Is it time for a new roof or maybe you just want your home to look more appealing?

Have you thought about adding a cupola to your roof? Cupolas are those small dome-like structures that you occasionally see, on top of fancy houses or barn roofs, as you drive by. They have a classic design to them and come in all shapes and sizes as well as materials.

With so much interest these days in classic home design and architecture, cupolas are a great way to add something extra to your property that will force your neighbors to take notice.

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

1. Because your cupola is going to be a permanent addition to your roof, you need to make sure it is of highest quality. Many people would recommend a style of cupola that requires no-maintenance. Most commonly, that means the cupola should be made with a weather-resistant material like vinyl PVC board.

2. In addition to the weather resistant (no-maintenance) material, the same aspects apply to the roof of the cupola. Copper roofs are perfect for battling severe weather as well as adding that classic touch to your roof.

3. When it comes to designing your cupola, windows and louvers are some elegant features to keep in mind. I've even seen cupolas that have both windows and louvers incorporated in them. Keep in mind the more louvers you have the more they will cost you.

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. Cupolas come in many different shapes. The most common cupolas are four-sided. However, if you're looking for a more custom shape, try a hexagonal cupola.

7. To customize your cupola even further, there are a variety of roof styles available. For example, copper bells, copper concave roofs, crown moldings are among the typical roof choices for a cupola. Make sure you choose one that best accents the theme of your home.

8. Barns and sheds are also good candidates for cupolas. To add more flare to the cupola, make sure the cupola has a standard hole and interior mount for a weathervane.

9. There are other types of finials you can add to the top of your cupola for a custom design. If you aren't a fan of weathervanes, try a distinct spire or other ornament.

10. One more thing to add to your check list, if you are going to order a cupola make sure the retailer is not using cheap products that weather easily. If they are using Fiberglass, plywood, plastic, or metal that rusts easily, consider using another retailer.