FAQ

WHAT MAKES OUR GEODESIC DOMES DIFFERENT?

We will supply you with a premium grade timber framed dome which is framed in high quality wood such as Alder or Durawood, as opposed to a lower quality pressure treated white deal timber. Naturally resistant to moisture and much stronger than standard construction timber giving the dome a much longer service life without maintenance. Our handcrafted domes are built with precision and attention to detail. We exclusively make geodesic domes and have extensive knowledge and experience in the successful delivery of these unique structures.

DO I NEED FOUNDATIONS FOR MY GEODESIC DOME?

Depending on where you want to locate your Geodesic Dome the following will need to be considered. If you are placing your new Geodesic Dome on an existing patio or decking area then you should ensure that there is sufficient strength on the existing construction and that it is in sound condition. Any rainwater from the dome will need to be able to freely drain away. If you are placing your new dome on a lawn or other soft ground then a small foundation will be required. There are a couple of different options; 1/ Concrete Pad Foundation: You can have a circular concrete pad foundation 100mm thick. The concrete pad should be the same diameter are the dome you are ordering + 50mm. A concrete pad foundation can be used as the internal floor of the dome. The concrete pad should be flat and level within ±10mm and then the dome is fixed on a composite footing beam which creates a damp proof course. A circular drainage trench 300mm wide and 500mm deep with a perforated land drainage pipe and filled with a 20-30mm drainage pebble around the perimeter of the dome foundation will provide enough soak away to clear the water runoff from the geodesic dome. This drainage trench should be just outside the diameter foundation of the dome. 2/Ground Screw Foundations. Ground screw foundations are an excellent solution for placing your geodesic dome on almost any area. They are installed without digging or damaging your garden, 70% faster than concrete. The low carbon, environmentally-friendly alternative to concrete. Install in hard-to-access areas. No mess, damage.

DOES MY GEODESIC DOME NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?

Planning law states that you are allowed to construct a garden building exempt from planning permission up to a maximum size of 25 m2 (270 sq. ft.) which is a 5.5m diameter dome, provided you leave 25 m2 of free space in your garden. This is particularly important if you are also planning a house extension. The 25 m2 free area needs to remain after the garden building and house extension are complete. The 25 m2 of free garden space can include the properties side and rear. Windows cannot be placed within 1 m of a neighbour’s boundary. Please consult your local planning office for any specific requirements.

IS THERE ANY VENTILATION IN THE DOME?

Our Geodesic Domes have 3 window openings to allow for ventilation of the space and in the GROW Dome these can be automatic window opener that responds to the heat in the dome and is solar powered. Our INHABIT Dome had 3 opening windows and can be fitted with a mechanical heat recovery vent to keep the dome fresh and control the moisture in the air. Due to the shape of the dome heat and air can circulate freely and will allow easy heating and cooling of the space with minimal requirements for controlling the internal environment.

WHAT IS THE CLADDING USED ON THE DOMES?

The INHABIT Dome is clad in an aluminium composite cladding which is available in 10 different colours and comes in a matt or gloss finish. The dome is covered in high density foil backed insulation protecting it from any internal condensation.

WHAT IS THE GLAZING USED ON THE DOME?

The GROW Dome is glazed in a 4mm UV Stable polycarbonate which is 200 time stronger than glass. If you would like an insulated growing space then the dome can be provided with a multi wall polycarbonate glazing which will allow for a thermal break in the dome providing an ideal solution for year round growing opportunities.

DO YOU BUILD ANY OTHER SIZE GEODESIC DOMES?

We can design and build domes from a 3 meter diameter dome which is about 2.4m tall and gives you 7m² of floor space up to a 10 meter diameter dome which is about 3.6m tall and gives you 78m² of floor space. Other sizes to suit your specific requirements are available upon request.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECEIVE MY GEODESIC DOMES?

Depending on the size and specification of the dome you are purchasing, production takes between 6 and 12 weeks from start of production.

DO YOU BUILD DOMES FOR OTHER COMMERCIAL PURPOSES?

We build domes suitable for a wide range of applications from outdoor seating areas in hotels, cafes, restaurants and other hospitality settings to growing spaces and private garden greenhouses with applications ranging from small scale food production to year round garden rooms. Our INHABIT domes can be configured with bathroom facilities and connected to the grid or for a tiny home off-grid living solution.

HOW IS THE DOME DELIVERED AND CAN IT BE INSTALLED IN DIFFICULT TO ACCESS AREAS?

Your Geodesic Dome will arrive in a partially assembled pannel construction from our workshop and can be located on to the site by hand if necessary so no heavy lifting equipment is required and even the most difficult areas to access can be accommodated by us. The area should be flat level ground and have good drainage. We suggest a a circular land drain trench filled with drainage stone is installed if you are situating the dome on the ground. Otherwise a raised plinth foundation installed on screw pile foundations will perfectly accommodate the dome in most sites with various types of ground conditions.

WHERE CAN I LOCATE MY GEODESIC DOME?

You can place your Geodesic Dome wherever you like. We have several designs and can even build domes that can be nestled up to existing buildings in a half or three quarter shape dome. This kite dome layout is slightly different to pentagonal grid dome but offers the same space and reliability in construction.

WHAT AREAS DO YOU DELIVER TO?

We deliver to Ireland and the United Kingdom. Other areas in Europe can be serviced by agreement. Please contact us to discuss.