A geodesic dome is a unique round structure. It is made of a triangulated web that gives it both strength and lightness of form. Architect Buckminster Fuller popularized geodesic domes in the mid-1900s.
By relying on the most basic of geometric shapes, these structures efficiently distribute weight, enabling them to better resist extreme winds, seismic activity, and extreme snow loading. You might have seen these domes in greenhouses, playgrounds, and event spaces around the United States.
Their open floor plans use less material overall compared to traditional structures. Geodesic domes really dazzle when it comes to their energy efficiency and ease of installation. Collectively, that makes them a smart and cost-effective option for green homes and community spaces!
Read on to learn more about geodesic domes and why they’re so effective. They showcase their primary applications and show us all why so many people love them across the country.
Using PVC pipes for the frame
PVC pipes are particularly well-suited for geodesic dome frames because they’re lightweight, very easy to work with, and easy to cut. As anyone knows who’s spent time in Los Angeles, the weather can change in a heartbeat and space is at a premium. Using schedule 40 PVC pipes provides an excellent balance between strength and availability.
Schedule 40’s wall thickness means it will hold up during storms or hot days. Choosing the correct diameter is important. For most backyard-sized domes, 1/2-inch pipes will do, but it’s important to understand that means inside dimension. The outside is actually closer to 0.84 inches, which affects how tightly connectors fit.
On larger builds, as on this recent Los Angeles project, 1.9-inch outside diameter pipe was used. We found that the frame performed well with additional rigidity from thicker material.
Cutting the pipes to the proper lengths is easy with a pipe cutter, bandsaw and drill press. These jig and fixture tools enable you to cut and assemble 150 pipe components in a single weekend. It is best to mark each length with labels as this makes assembly much quicker!
In addition, it organizes the whole process, mainly when you’re dealing with triangles making up the dome’s base. Connectors—such as snap-in joints or custom hubs—interlock the pipes at exact angles. The strongest frame, 1 1/2-inch pipes would be ideal for the hub arms.
Mass producing identical pieces, whether by hand or with simple jigs, makes each triangle fit right and gives the dome its signature shape. PVC’s flexibility means you can constantly try out new designs without much hassle. You’ll be able to do simple fixes in a hurry without spending a fortune on unplanned repairs.
Galvanized steel tubing as a budget-friendly option
Among these, galvanized steel tubing emerges as the most cost-effective option for geodesic dome frames. It merges the convenience of cost savings with high performance. Others use it simply because it’s incredibly durable. Its zinc coating does a great job of preventing rust.
A standard 16-foot length runs around $4. It’s not hard to understand why this option makes so much sense for pinch budget as well, particularly when constructing larger domes! That low price can add up quickly. For a mid-sized dome, you could need 130 lengths! That’s $520 total before you lay one stick of pipe or do any real work.
It’s just as important to consider the build process. 1-inch OD galvanized steel tubing provides adequate strength to support. Its 1/8-inch wall makes it light, too, which helps keep costs and handling down. Cutting and drilling each piece is quite time consuming and requires a good deal of patience.
Cut each tube to exact measurements. Even minor errors in cutting can affect the fit, and the strength and integrity of the finished dome. Properly bolting or welding the connections creates a structure that is naturally resistant to extreme wind and weather. Overall, this type of frame will give you a 30-year lifespan.
It’s a smart choice for anyone looking for an attractive, durable, low-maintenance building that will last for generations! Weight is the other consideration here. A steel dome can easily weigh in at over 1,000 pounds. Moving and establishing the frame is where it really becomes a task.
This is all the more true if you intend for the dome to be portable! Besides that, some people choose to bolt their tables down for added storm stability. While galvanized steel will not rust, it is not immune to rusting over the years, and some maintenance should be expected as a part of the deal.
Recycled wood or pallets for certain parts
Recycled wood and pallets are gaining traction in geodesic dome construction. They provide a sustainable, green alternative that is easier on the pocketbook for most builders. Any builder in the U.S. Will be familiar with the desire to build using reclaimed wood harvested from old barns, warehouses or disassembled shipping pallets.
This type of wood usually has a history to share. It will bring home real character to the interior of a dome dwelling! Many enthusiasts reclaim pallet wood to create rustic-looking wall paneling, shelving, or even flooring. This creative decision helps lend their dome a unique and organic aesthetic.
You still want to inspect all reclaimed wood for damage, rot or signs of infestation. Not all wood reclaimed from pallets or deconstructed buildings is up to snuff. Every piece deserves an up-close, personal, once-over!
Wood that is damaged or moldy decomposes rapidly. This is even more so the case in a dome home, where every component needs to be durable and long-lasting. After the wood is selected and inspected, it usually requires further processing to get it down to finished size.
Recycled wood can be milled into a variety of profiles for framing non-structural elements such as interior trims or built-in furniture. Using it for load-bearing elements isn’t unheard of. Where it really shines is in finishes and features that aren’t subject to stress.
Another important part of the process is treating the wood. Plus, with the application of sealants or weatherproof coatings, the wood is less vulnerable to moisture and sun damage. This protection is vital, particularly in areas that are subjected to extreme weather extremes.
Utilizing recycled materials increases diversion from landfills and decreases the need to harvest new wood. It takes a lot more work to get each piece ready.
Polycarbonate panels for walls and roofing
Specifically for geodesic domes, polycarbonate panels are easily your best option thanks to their excellent combination of durability and UV protection. These panels are virtually shatterproof with a resistance 30 times that of glass. Their lightweight strength and cost make them an excellent option for residential domes.
They shine in commercial applications too, especially in places with extreme sun conditions or weather. Polycarbonate is an amorphous thermoplastic. This allows you to quickly cut, bend and/or heat it in order to fit the unique frame of a dome.
The most popular type of polycarbonate panel is the twin wall panel. It consists of two flat panes of glass with little walls separating them. This configuration prevents heat from escaping and contributes to the structural integrity of the dome.
When choosing panels, it’s useful to determine the required sizes of panels first, according to the frame of the dome. Polycarbonate sheets are available in very large sizes—some sheets run as long as 6 feet by 24 feet. This speeds up covering large domes and leaves fewer seams to be sealed.
When attaching the panels to the frame, either screws or bolts that are suitable for outdoor use should be used. High-quality fasteners ensure a secure fit for your panels, which reduces the risk of leaks. Make sure to adhere all edges with silicone or foil tape to prevent moisture and dust infiltration.
Controlling the temperature within the dome is critical. Because polycarbonate can act like a greenhouse, vents or small windows allow air movement. Many users will supplement by adding additional panels with an airspace in between for even greater insulation.
This is because UV rays can slowly deteriorate the panels. Choose sheets that already have UV protection built-in, or introduce shade where appropriate! Polycarbonate’s combination of strength, variety of sizes, and ease of workability makes it a natural choice for domes all over the United States.
Greenhouse plastic film for coverings
Smart Coverage Greenhouse plastic film is an excellent option when you’re covering a geodesic dome, providing affordable coverage and efficient insulation. The poly film we use on greenhouses, usually some type of polyethylene, does an excellent job of holding heat in. Overnight, a double layer can raise the temperature within a dome by around 8 degrees. This is much, much warmer than the air outside!
This disparity contributes to longer growing seasons in areas with temperate winters, such as Southern California. It’s a great help to northern climates where nights turn cold fast!
Selecting the appropriate film is critical — both for film performance and your budget. High-quality, thicker, UV-stabilized films can last as long as 9 years! Conversely, less expensive options may only last three summers.
Although used plastic film may look like a cost-saving option, it is usually brittle and will crack easily, particularly in colder or windier conditions. Wind will rip loose film in no time. That’s why they often require the use of clips, greenhouse tape, or even stapling to the struts.
To increase holding power, users often bolt thin wood slats across the seams. Getting the measurements and cutting the greenhouse plastic film just right to fit the dome’s panels is one of the most critical steps. Because plastic film can shrink, it’s a good idea to leave a little extra when you are cutting.
Double-layering the film with an air space between the two layers provides additional insulation. This arrangement can insulate against heat loss more effectively and provide better protection against hail or intense sunlight. Many domes use double poly, with air pumped between the two sheets.
They use one small fan to circulate the air between the layers, which helps keep things warmer.
Canvas and heavy-duty tarps
If you’ll be using a tarp or canvas to cover a geodesic dome, it’s important to know their differences to ensure long-term use and safety. Canvas tarps are made from 100% cotton duck fabric. At a weight of approximately 12 oz per square yard, they hold up in heavy storms and harsh conditions.
They perform best in climates with large diurnal temperature ranges, such as Los Angeles or the Southwestern U.S. Heavy-duty tarps, unlike canvas tarps, are made of high-density woven polyethylene. Their weights are typically about 6.0 oz per square yard.
This providence enables them to outlast all rug mats for years of heavy duty usage while being completely resistant to water, sun and tear. If you want to cover a dome, you need to think ahead. Begin by compiling a list of all the sizes required for each dome panel.
Tarps are commonly available in sizes as large as 50 by 100 feet. Their strength is evident in many applications, from pool covers to tennis courts. The thicker tarps, rated up to 19 oz, provide more protection but are not as easy to maneuver.
Look for the thickness, treatment (UV or mildew resistant coatings), and tensile strength as you make your selection. Vinyl laminated tarps provide even greater utility, effectively serving as divider curtains or gym floor covers.
Heavy-duty grommets, spaced every 18 inches, secure the tarp to the frame. Heavy duty rope-reinforced corners and eyelets ensure a snug fit and reduce wear and tear. To prevent sagging or water pooling, stretch the tarp taut with consistent tension across all four sides.
This process ensures a reduced risk of leaks and increased durability for both the cover and dome.
Insulation with affordable materials like recycled wool or denim
Extending insulation recycled from wool or denim across a geodesic dome aligns with frugality and environmental objectives. These materials provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fiberglass or foam insulation.
Recycled denim insulation, made from used jeans and cotton waste, is readily available in the U.S. It’s easy to procure, as it’s often sold in batts, allowing for a very simple cut and press in between the dome’s frame and outer shell. Fit is key—the slightest gap can allow cold air in or warm air to escape, eating away at the energy savings provided by the dome.
Recycled wool is yet another natural, green, and wholesome insulation choice. It stands up to humid air and actually keeps moisture in the home under control too. Wool’s naturally moisture-wicking and breathable properties allow air to circulate, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
Since both denim and wool reduce landfill waste, they’re in harmony with the values of green living. By using these types of insulation, conservation projects can help support recycling efforts in the communities where they work. This is particularly urgent in cities, where textile waste accumulates at a staggering rate.
Here are some things to look out for. Denim insulation, like many other common insulations, is dusty to work with, so a mask and gloves are a good idea. Both materials can attract pests or become wet if not properly treated or installed.
An additional breathable fabric layer between the insulation and the dome’s shell prevents moisture from entering. It’s pretty great at letting air move around. The thickness you’ll need varies based on your local climate.
Hotter locations may require thinner layers, while colder or windier areas will require more. Keep in mind that wool and denim aren’t as high-R as some synthetics, so take that into consideration when choosing your insulation.
Conclusion
Geodesic domes are impressive for their efficient use of space as well as their durability. PVC pipes are very quick to snap together for small projects. That tubing of choice—galvanized steel—sure is nice and reassuringly hefty for people on a shoestring budget. Rustic reclaimed wood, old pallets or scrap wood really make the frame come alive with a rustic touch. Rain is no problem with polycarbonate panels, which allow plenty of diffuse light in. Wind and sun resistant greenhouse film and heavy tarps provide stability. Recycled wool or denim keeps the cold out while keeping your wallet in the green. A geodesic dome of this scale is perfectly at home whether it’s in a suburban backyard garden or a temporary pop-up workspace in downtown Los Angeles. Now, use these tips as a starting point, add your own unique flair to them and find what works best for you. Have a particular build in the works? Post on our blog, trade stories, tricks and tips with fellow creatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use PVC pipes to build a geodesic dome in Los Angeles?
Are PVC pipes a good material to use to build a geodesic dome in Los Angeles. They’re an amazing, cost-effective solution for small-medium domes, particularly long term or seasonal use.
Is galvanized steel tubing good for affordable geodesic domes?
Indubitably, most assuredly and unequivocally yes. Galvanized steel tubing is readily available, strong, resists rust, and is much less expensive than aluminum. That is great news for anyone interested in larger, more permanent geodesic domes, especially given Southern California’s ideal climate.
Can recycled wood or pallets be used for geodesic dome structures?
Can recycled wood or pallets be used to create a recycled wood geodesic dome structure. Their design makes them ideal for all kinds of non-load-bearing applications as well, such as entryways or raised beds within your dome.
Are polycarbonate panels suitable for geodesic dome roofing in LA?
Polycarbonate panels as geodesic dome roofing material are good. They’re long-lasting and provide UV protection. Plus, they allow lots of light to penetrate, which makes them an excellent choice for greenhouses or garden domes in Los Angeles.
What type of plastic film works best for greenhouse domes in Southern California?
Greenhouse plastic film such as 6 mil polyethylene is inexpensive and readily accessible. It is incredibly durable against sun and wind, making it ideal for use in community garden projects.
Can canvas or tarps be used to cover a geodesic dome?
If so, yes, heavy-duty canvas or tarps are sufficient for short-term or seasonal covers. They are readily available here in California and provide versatile coverage for your dome.
What are some affordable insulation options for geodesic domes?
Recycled wool or denim insulation Reclaimed, recycled insulation is an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative. Both materials are widely available in the U.S. Will both ensure that your dome stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer.