Geodesic vs. Monolithic Domes: Which is Right for My Needs

Geodesic Domes are a popular glamping choice. They are durable, strong, and energy efficient. They are also versatile serving as yoga rooms, event venues, bars, restaurants, and more. When you consider dome houses for sale, your primary options include geodesic and Monolithic domes. Which is right for you? Learn the differences between the two so you can determine which is best for your needs.

What is a Geodesic Dome?

Geodesic dome hubs are constructed from a network of triangles configurated into a spherical shape. The triangles distribute weight throughout the dome making the structure durable and lightweight. The modular systems make these domes easy to assemble, scale, and customize.
The domes are typically constructed from sturdy materials like steel, PVC, or aluminum.You can even find glass domes for sale that offer a geodesic structure.

What is a Monolithic Dome?

Monolithic domes are made of concrete . The construction process starts with inflating a large inflatable structure, filling it with a sprayed foam installation, fortifying it with rebar, and applying a concrete finish. The resulting dome is highly durable to hold up well in varying weather conditions. It is often used as a home, school, shelter, or commercial building.

Geodesic vs. Monolithic Dome: Which Should I Choose?

Geodesic domes are typically more suited for camping and pop-up events, while monolithic domes are more permanent structures. Here are some other factors to consider when choosing between the two.

Cost Of The Domes

Geodesic dome houses for sale typically offer lower up-front costs. They are made from lightweight, and therefore, less expensive materials. They also have lower construction costs. You may even purchase a geodesic dome kit and do much of the assembly yourself.
A monolithic dome for sale is more expensive considering the materials and construction cost. However, these domes require less maintenance, and they are more energy efficient than their geodesic counterparts. They are also more permanent structures offering increased long-term use and savings.

Construction Process

Monolithic dome houses for sale require an extensive construction process. You must typically hire a professional for this type of specialized construction. It also requires costly materials. The process is time-consuming and expensive. A geodesic dome requires less assembly. Many people will even purchase a PVC dome kit and perform the construction themselves. However, even professional assembly will be less expensive.

Portability

Geodesic domes are ideal for glamping, nomadic living, pop-up events, and other non-permanent location needs. They are lightweight and easy to assemble and disassemble. You can easily move them from location to location in line with your commercial and residential needs. Monolithic domes require heavy materials and a rigorous construction process. They are more suited to permanent needs.

Energy Efficiency

Both geodesic and monolithic domes are energy-efficient choices, but they achieve energy efficiency differently. If you buy a geodesic dome, you can expect optimal airflow and temperature distribution
due to its spherical shape. Insulation can further enhance its energy efficiency.However, monolithic domes feature a thick layer of concrete and insulation for optimal temperature insulation. Concrete’s thermal mass is ideal for heat absorption and storage. It comes out ahead of geodesic domes for energy efficiency.

Aesthetics

Geodesic dome structures for sale have a sleek modern style. Many of these domes stand out for their architectural appeal. The Biosphere of Montreal, Spaceship Earth in Orlando, FL, and La Geode in Paris, France, are just some of the structures people from around the world flock to see. Monolithic dome houses for sale are attractive, but they tend to be less versatile. They appeal to people who enjoy a minimalist design but may not be as aesthetically pleasing to those who enjoy sleek, modern designs.

Strength and Durability

Geodesic domes are surprisingly strong. They have a high strength-to-weight ratio making them capable of withstanding heavy loads and strong winds. Their triangle structure evenly distributes stress, so they are quite resilient.However, they don’t match the exceptional durability of insulated concrete. Monolithic domes are even known to withstand hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters.

Environmental Materials

Monolithic domes are typically made of concrete, a natural and sustainable material. However, it may generate carbon emissions in its extraction and production process. Geodesic domes are often made of metal and aluminum which pose similar quandaries. They are natural and recyclable but can cause emissions during production. However, geodesic domes can also be made of PVC which is not natural and can emit toxins into
the environment.

Other Types of Domes

Geodesic and monolithic are the two main dome types, but there are other options available when buying dome houses for sale. Here are some to consider.

Inflatable Domes

As the name suggests, inflatable domes blow up using air pressure. These domes can be single or double-layer. Double-layer domes have an air cavity between the two layers. The single-layer variety blows up when continuous air is sent through it. It is an ideal temporary event space or camping unit.

Corbel Domes

This dome is a more permanent structure. It is made by stacking bricks or stone in layers, so they lean inward and meet on top to form a dome shape. They are not popular in modern architecture, but the structure can be seen in some historic structures, tombs, and temples.

Dome Shapes

Domes can further be categorized by their shape. Here are some common options:

Onion domes

Onion domes are commonly featured in Russian architecture. The bulbous structures are tapered on top. These domes are typically complemented by ornate colors that bring out their architectural uniqueness. The style is often used in holy buildings as they seemingly point to heaven. It is also adopted in cold climates as the pointy structure allows snow to slide off. 

Hemispherical Dome

The hemispherical dome is the dome we commonly see integrated in today’s monolithic and geodesic dome home for sale. Possibly inspired by the Pantheon in ancient Rome, the rounded shape is optimal for
airflow and energy efficiency.

Cloister Vault

Cloister vaults have curved surfaces that meet at a central point at the top. The design has been popular since the Middle Ages and is often featured in monasteries and churches. It is rarely used in modern architecture
unless the designer wishes to recreate a Medieval aesthetic.

Oval Domes

Oval domes are like hemispherical domes but feature a more oblong structure. The origins of this dome shape are unclear, but it may have been introduced in Ancient Rome when architects were experimenting with non-
round dome shapes. However, it was not widely adopted due to limitations in building technology. Despite its lack of popularity, it may have inspired architects to experiment with complementary dome designs like triangles and hexagons.

Disadvantages of Domes

Although a dome house for sale is mostly beneficial, it offers some disadvantages,
many of which are specific to monolithic varieties.
Compact Units: The rounded design means domes are typically smaller than traditional housing units.
Expensive Maintenance: Although domes are low maintenance, repair costs can be expensive as the rounded surface is difficult to work with.Permits Complications: Domes are an ideal residence alternative for some people, but permitting can be complicated considering construction and property regulations

Monolithic vs Geodesic Homes for Sale: Final Thoughts

Domes are convenient living structures offering optimal energy efficiency and sustainability. Those choosing between a monolithic and a geodesic house for sale should consider the permanence of the structure. Monolithic domes are best for permanent and semi-permanent housing needs, while geodesic domes are more temporary. Regardless of the dome you purchase, you must purchase one from a reliable provider.
DomeSpaces is an ideal choice for glamping domes for sale. We offer a wide range of geodesic domes that are perfect for pop-up events, camping, ADU purposes, and much
more.
Contact us to find the dome that’s ideal for your needs.