Don't Let the Cost of Coating Your Dome Catch You off Guard
AFTER: To repair and protect the Airform after damage done by hail in 2023, metal shingles were installed after patching the Airform in Avalon, Texas.
BEFORE: After 22+ years, the Avalon ISD gym’s Airform was brittle with age. The hailstorm left it pock-marked—cosmetic and easy to fix, but a recent coating would’ve likely prevented the damage.
Monolithic Domes are tough, efficient, and built to last. But there’s one part of every dome that does need attention from time to time. If you ignore it, the fix can turn into an expensive problem. Let’s talk about dome roofs, how long they really last, and the point at which you need to step in and take care of maintenance.
The Airform—the PVC fabric we inflate to build every dome—comes with a protective topcoat. Every fabric manufacturer has their own formula, but they all fight the same enemy: UV exposure. The sun doesn’t stop, and eventually the Airform can start to degrade.
Typically, these fabrics have a lifespan of about 20 years, although some can last nearly 30 years. Most fabrics come with a 15-year warranty, and I recommend assessing the condition of your Airform around the 10-year mark. This will help you determine whether you can wait longer or if it’s time to apply a protective coating.
It’s crucial to coat the roof at the right time. Once the fabric loses its ability to keep moisture out, problems can arise quickly. Moisture trapped beneath the membrane is challenging to remove and can lead to secondary reactions within the polyurethane foam, resulting in blisters that are unsightly and damaging.
Keep an eye on your Airform. If you see signs of wear, get a coating on it before it becomes a problem. If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, call or email us. We’ll help you figure out whether it’s time for a coating and point you to the right products.
If your dome has already passed that critical point, don’t worry—there are solutions to repair domes in any condition, and we can help restore your investment to working order.
Neglected and Damaged Airforms
[Left] A 20-year old Airform in dire need of repair in Italy, Texas. [Right] Mold and fungi can accelerate the deterioration of Airforms. Cleaning the Airform periodically is good maintenance. It is also the first step to repair.
Due Sorelle—Before
This 32-foot diameter Monolithic Dome home was built with a thinner-than-typical Airform. After 15 years, it desperately needed patching and recoating.
Due Sorelle—After
The finished coating on this 800-square-foot dome home is elastomeric and should endure another seven to ten years before needing a re-coat.