Before I can install the back roof, I need to put on the center finial, which consists of two parts. The first part has a slot on top and must be attached first, followed by the second part that slides into it. The instructions lack detailed pictures, but I took some myself. Both parts should be oriented with the pointy edges facing the front of the dollhouse and the rounded edges at the back.
To start, insert the first finial into one of the slots on the roof tabs at the back of the front roof panels. Then slide the second finial into place, fitting its "legs" into the other roof tab. I hope my pictures clarify this process, as it is challenging to explain in words. I had to dry fit the entire structure, including the back roof, to understand how it all fits together since I found the written instructions unclear.
Once the center finials are in place, glue the two roof supports. It’s important to paint both the center finial and the roof supports before attaching the back roof, as they will be hard to reach later. If your finial appears slightly slanted, don’t worry; the back roof pieces will help straighten them out. While that dries, I’ll attach the shutters.
Typically, you don’t need to wallpaper the interior of back roofs in dollhouses since they aren’t visible. However, in this dollhouse, parts of the interior are visible from different angles. If you have wallpapered your attic, you should also wallpaper the back roof to match before installation, as it will be difficult to do afterward. Next, paint all exterior edges in the same color used for the front roof, then prime and wallpaper your back roof. The back roof will slide into the center finial and other slots around the roof. You can start with either side. Use a mallet to help slide it into place and to secure the tabs in their slots around the sides. Clamp everything until it dries.
You can apply roof trim, finials, and gable trim before shingling the dollhouse without any issues. If you prefer to wait until after shingling, that’s fine too; I chose to apply everything now. Don't worry about small gaps; they will be covered by shingles.
