'How to Build a GRC Sandwich Panel Backyard Dome Studio'
This method utilizes an air-form. An air-form is like a balloon fabricated in the shape of the structure. The air-form is fixed down over a slab or foundation and inflated by an inflator fan. The air-form is also attached to an airlock (double door chamber) which provides access to the inside of the air-form.
The whole fabrication of the dome shell is conducted from inside the air-form by applying various layers of composite materials including 2, 8mm layers of "Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete" (GRC) (the concrete is actually a high strength cement render with polymer and other additives) and a 50mm layer high-density polyurethane.
We have built domes up to 9.5m in diameter using this method.
This method produces beautiful, strong, energy efficient dome shell structures with only 16mm to 20mm thick concrete and no reinforcing steel. It's a method suitable for purists who have access to spray polyurethane and are interested in a challenging project.
Over time we have developed a more simple and cost-effective method of constructing domes utilizing ether bamboo or basalt fibre rebar which is the method we have adopted as our favorite.
Reap the Benefit of Years of Research and Development
- a patented method developed in collaboration with Queensland University of Technology
- step by step explanation of the building method (including variations)
- detailed plans, sections, elevations
- detailed shop drawings for fabrications and form-work
- engineered slab design
- metric dimensions
- materials list and quantities (source of supply)
- detailed graphical images
- generally, comply with Building Code of Australia exempt development provisions town planning - Can be built in a back yard without a DA (in most cases - as a shed)
- alternative systems and materials discussed
- optional materials order form
- subject to our standard terms/conditions
What skills will I need to build a Dome Studio?
Skills required to build a “Dome Studio” are a combination of regular building skills, hand and manual skills, organization and of course, plan reading skills together with plenty of common sense, patience, perseverance, flexibility and a willingness to Try Something Completely New:
Resilient Against All Extreme Natural Forces
Domeshells innovative, patented building system is based on a sandwich panel of composites formed in a compound curve shape such as a “dome”. A Dome shell is formed as a monolithic shell structure having no seams or joints and can be constructed in sizes from 3.0m diameter to 12.0m diameter.
They can be stand-alone or linked together to form multiple dome homes. The sandwich panel comprises a core of polyurethane spray foam with “glass fiber (or basalt fiber) reinforced concrete” (GRC) structural coatings on either side forming a lightweight yet extremely strong and exceptionally well insulated monolithic shell.
Domeshell structures are capable of withstanding extreme winds, earthquakes, hail, snow, heat and cold.
No matter where you live in the world, there are many ways to adapt the system which I refer to in the DIY Manual. There are many alternative building materials in different parts of the world, which could be substituted for some of the materials described in the DIY Manual.
Be adventurous, I invite YOU to take what has been developed so far and apply your innovations to the system
Have any Questions - Contact Us Chris Brown