What is a Concrete Dome Home?
A concrete dome, also called a monolithic dome, is a well-insulated shell covered with concrete. Most are based on the structure of the geodesic dome, which relies on a pattern of intersecting triangles to distribute stress across the surface of the structure. These homes aren’t made of solid concrete, however. To begin construction, a round concrete foundation is poured and reinforced with steel rebar. Typically an airform, a fabric balloon, forms the roof and walls. It is attached to the foundation and inflated. Polyurethane foam is then applied to the airform as a base, and steel reinforcing is attached to hold its structure. Finally, shotcrete, a strong spray-on concrete, is applied to the dome’s surfaces. While concrete domes may look very different from traditional homes, they offer many benefits that make them an appealing alternative.
