Home » Thinking About Adding an Arch? What to Know Before You Begin
Thinking About Adding an Arch? What to Know Before You Begin
Getting an arch installed in the house is an important decision that can increase the beauty of your home manifold. The history of the arch is thousands of years old and it has been used in buildings all over the world. Even today, people try to make their homes attractive and grand by installing arches in them.
The arch has special importance in architecture because it not only works as a decoration but also provides strength to the building. Installing an arch brings a different kind of grandeur to the house and the relationship between the rooms is also established in a beautiful way. In modern times, many types of arch designs are available from which you can choose your choice.
Before installing an arch, it is important to pay attention to some important things such as the design of the arch, the choice of material and the process of construction. In this article, we will give you all the important information related to the arch so that you can take the right decision and give a new look to your house.
Planning and Design
It is very important to plan before installing an arch. First, you must decide where to install the arch and what will be its shape. The design of the arch is prepared according to the height and width of the room.
While choosing the design, keep in mind that it matches the architecture of your house. There are many types of arches such as round arch, pointed arch, and half round arch. Each design has its own effect and is suitable for different types of houses.
It is also important to coordinate the arch with the existing decoration of the house. For this, the choice of color, texture and material should be made thoughtfully. Sometimes small changes can also have a big impact.
While planning the arch, it is also important to keep in mind the rest of the house. For example, if you want to install an arch in the kitchen, then it must be seen whether there is enough space there or not. Also, you must think about how the light and air flow will be after installing the arch.
It is also very important to keep the budget in mind because the price of different designs and materials is different. Sometimes small changes also work and the cost is also less. Therefore, decide your budget at the beginning and plan accordingly.
Materials and Construction
Different types of materials are used to make arches. Arches made of wood provide natural beauty to the house. Stone arches are strong and last for a long time. Arches made of plaster are cheap and can be easily molded into any design.
Construction of an arch is a complex process that requires special skills. For this, accurate measurement and use of correct technique is very important. An arch built in the wrong way not only looks ugly but can also be dangerous.
It is important to keep taking care of the arch from time to time. Wooden arches have to be protected from insects, stone arches have to be cleaned, and care has to be taken to ensure that there are no cracks in the plaster arches.
The material used to make the arch is also chosen keeping in mind the weather. Stone arches are better in hot areas because they reduce heat. On the other hand, wooden arches are better in cold areas because they help in keeping the house warm.
Special care is taken of safety during construction. Strong support is given under the arch so that it can handle the load properly. Apart from this, it is also seen that the arch is well connected to the walls and ceiling.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Some people try to make the arch themselves but this work is not as easy as it looks. You can make small arches yourself but for big and complex arches it is necessary to take the help of a professional.
Calling a professional mason costs more but the work is done well. They take the right measurements, use the right material and take full care of safety. This makes the arch last for a long time and looks beautiful.
Professional masons can also suggest you many design options that fit your budget. They can tell from their experience which design will be most suitable for your house. This helps you in making the right decision.
It is also important to keep time in mind. If you try to make the arch yourself, it may take a lot of time. On the other hand, professional masons complete this work quickly and well.
Enhancing Interior Spaces
Arches are a great way to beautify the interiors of the house. It makes any room look grand and attractive. Arches on doors and windows give the house a royal look.
By installing arches between rooms, a flow is created and the house looks open. By installing arches between the kitchen and dining area, between the living room and veranda, or between the bedroom and bathroom, you can give a new look to the house.
The decoration of the arch is also very important. You can put lights on it, paint it or make a design on it. Some people also place small statues or vases on the edges of the arch.
Colors should also be chosen carefully. The color of the arch should match the rest of the colors of the room. Light colors make the room look bigger while dark colors give a royal look.
Outdoor Arches and Landscaping
The arches in the garden enhance the external beauty of the house. Iron or wooden arches are used for climbing vines. Arches installed on garden pathways present a beautiful view.
It is important to protect the arches installed outside from the weather. Appropriate coating is used to protect them from rain and sunlight. They should also be repaired and painted from time to time.
The outside arch can be made even more beautiful with lighting. It looks very beautiful when the lights are lit at night. You can also save electricity by using solar lights.
By climbing seasonal flowers and vines on the arch, you can give it a new look in every season. Jasmine or bougainvillea can be planted in summer, and other seasonal flowers in winter.
The arch is an architectural element that can give a special identity to your home. With the right planning, selection of appropriate material and professional construction, you can get a beautiful and durable arch built in your home. Arches not only enhance the beauty of the house but also increase its value. So if you want to give your house a new look, arches can be a great option.
FAQs
Can I get a new arch installed in my old house?
Yes, arches can be installed in old houses as well. For this, the strength of the wall has to be checked first. Consult a professional engineer or mason who will be able to evaluate the condition of the wall and help in installing the arch in a safe manner.
What is the best material for the arch?
It depends on the climate and requirement of your house. Stone is better for warm areas as it keeps the house cool. Wood is good in cold areas. Plaster arches are suitable in any climate and can be easily molded into any design.
How to take care of the arch?
Regular cleaning is very important. Get the wooden arch treated annually to protect it from insects. Wipe the stone arch with a wet cloth once a month. If you notice any cracks, repair them immediately. Give waterproofing treatment to the outer arch.
Is it safe to plant plants on a garden arch?
Yes, but choosing the right plants is important. Light to medium weight plants like jasmine, bougainvillea, or climbing roses are best. Heavy plants can damage the arch. Prune the plants regularly and control their weight.