Dome Technology

Whether a safety shelter in the tornado-inclined stretch of the United States or a state-of-the-art university student center, a dome provides a striking contrast to traditional built construction. Let our team help you plan the type of building you need with the perfect combination of features.

After the foundation is secure, preparations follow for the inflation of the airform. This structure is stronger than it appears, able to bear the weight of layers of shotcrete and rebar and providing total waterproofing. Once inflated, all equipment moves inside, allowing construction to continue rain or shine.

With the airform inflated, polyurethane foam insulation is applied inside, forming a layer two to three inches thick. This layer acts as a continuous and uninterrupted thermal barrier between the exterior and interior of the dome, an important element to keeping temperatures consistent within the structure, and is added until the structure meets necessary R values.

In the low-profile model, a high-strength post-tension is often used to allow the dome profile to be more shallow, resulting in a more aesthetically appealing project.

With the thin shell now set, a dome can be finished much like any other architectural building. Choose finishes that will lend your dome style and sophistication.