Groin Arch vs. Barrel Vault

Can’t choose between a groin arch or barrel? Here are some things to consider.

Are you torn between which arch to choose for your ceiling. If you ask us, you can’t really go wrong either way, but still, there are some things you may want to consider before making your decision.

Style

Style is the most obvious consideration. Although a groin arch is made up of intersecting barrel arches, the look is very different. A groin arch will give your space a more gothic look, while a barrel vault is much more smooth and simple. It’ll give you the feeling that you’re walking through a tunnel whenever you enter your barrel vaulted space. With a barrel vault, you have the option of having an intricate mural painted on its inside. You could do the same with a groin arch, but it’ll seem busier. Most groin vaults aren’t heavily decorated because of their more intricate design. With all that said, though, a groin arch will create a more unique and awe-inspiring effect.

Budget

Because a groin arch is made up of intersecting barrel arches, there’s a bit more involved in its creation. Of course, that translates to a bit more in cost too. Those who add groin arches to their homes say it’s well worthwhile, but that choice is yours to make. If you’re looking for an extremely opulent ceiling, there’s nothing that will compare to the groin vault. There is one possible workaround, though. Going back to the style consideration, if you happen to be an artist or know one that would be willing to do a pro bono painting on your barrel vault ceiling, you can create a similar jaw-dropping effect with a custom-painted mural.

Timeframe

If you were having these arches custom built, time would be a consideration. A groin vault would probably take longer to craft than a barrel arch because a barrel arch is simpler in design. But with our prefabricated kits, there is absolutely no difference. From the time you place your order, your groin or barrel vault will be shipped to your doorstep, or at your jobsite, within five days. Period.

Effort to Install

Our prefabricated ceiling kits are so easy to install that it doesn’t make too much of a difference between barrel and groin. The biggest disparity of time and effort is going to be with installing drywall. Instead of dealing with the one curve you would have to drywall with a barrel vault, you’re going to have four with a groin arch. If you’re paying someone to do the drywall, the groin vault will cost more.

There are definitely a few things to consider before you decide to go with a groin arch over a barrel, but it’s your choice to make. Have a look through some of the pictures in our gallery to see what both look like when they’re installed and painted. If you’re wavering, a little eye candy should help seal the deal.