Advantages and Disadvantages of Geodesic Dome Homes

Geodesic dome homes are the wave of the future. Like most future waves, they were probably ahead of their time and interest waned as a result. But now, geodesic dome homes may be making a comeback for a few important reasons.

advantage

Geodesic domes are becoming increasingly popular among homebuyers who want unique structures that can withstand harsh weather conditions and natural disasters. People are also turning to these structures because they are more energy efficient and economical than traditional square homes. There are three main factors that make geodesic dome homes attractive to potential buyers.

Geodesic dome could better resist the elements

The dome shape effectively blocks the elements such as wind and snow. In fact, there is some evidence that these structures can even withstand hurricane-force winds. This is an especially important consideration for homebuilders and buyers in the South and Southeast, where hurricanes are becoming more common and more powerful each year.

Geodesic domes are particularly resistant to strong winds because they have fewer flat surfaces, allowing wind to move around the house. In addition to protecting against strong winds, dome homes are also better able to withstand strong earthquakes. The concrete dome is known to withstand even flying debris the size of a car.

They are very energy efficient

Geodesic domes promote more efficient air circulation and keep temperatures uniform throughout the structure. This can make them two to four times more energy efficient than traditional homes. Due to their unique shape, these homes are also more effectively insulated. Because light actually refracts and stays inside the domes, these structures can take full advantage of solar gain, reducing the need for artificial lighting. For younger buyers who want a more energy-efficient home and aren't put off by the dome aesthetic, geodesic domes make sense.

they are strong

From a purely engineering perspective, geodesic domes are superior to square homes. They are the only man-made structures that actually become stronger as they increase in size. They are also lighter, more structurally sound, and require less material. When composed of bioceramics, geodesic domes are also highly fire-resistant. That could be a powerful selling point for builders and buyers in the West and Southwest as wildfires become more intense and more common.

shortcoming

When building a geodesic home, builders may face some challenges.

For example, a chimney can be difficult to place, and if it's a larger home, installing a fire escape can be expensive. Creating partitions and rooms within a dome structure can also be very difficult, especially if you don't have extensive building experience.

Since the average house is square, basic appliances, fixtures, and utilities are built at right angles. If you're not used to building dome houses, it may be difficult to find readily available materials for your home. While these items are becoming more common as geodesic dome homes continue to grow in popularity, sourcing such items can be more challenging.

In areas frequently affected by tornadoes and hurricanes, modern homeowners are increasingly turning to geodesic domes because they better withstand storms and strong winds. Due to changes in architectural needs, the interior design and practical options for geodesic domes have increased significantly. Still, a knowledgeable builder is needed to simplify geodesic dome construction. If you think you can capitalize on this growing market, now is a great time to familiarize yourself with the construction process and build relationships with the right vendors.

No matter how you build it, let PRANCE help you