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Monolithic Dome Institute

Technical Journal

Updated 8 Aug 2023 Resources»
Underground home entrance.

The Technical Journal is a closer look at Monolithic Dome construction including how-to articles, construction galleries, design ideas, and more.

Interior Surfaces of the Monolithic Dome

Half naturally rough and half-troweled smooth walls are featured in the multipurpose center at the Monolithic Dome Institute Research and Industrial Park.
8 Photos 8
By David B. South Posted 30 Mar 2023 Technical Journal»

There are various finished interior surfaces to choose from when building a Monolithic Dome. The texture of shotcrete is naturally rough. Applying final coats of shotcrete to the interiors of smaller Monolithic Domes—using a sand-only shotcrete mix and a small nozzle—makes the natural finish much smoother. If the client desires an even smoother look, there are several ways to achieve a semi-smooth or totally smooth interior dome wall. … read more

Monolithic Dome Exterior Restoration in Florida Horse Country

Before and after images of the renovated Monolithic Dome home.
15 Photos 15
By Benjamin Erwin Posted 11 Mar 2021 Technical Journal»

When my wife came across a Monolithic Dome for sale in Northern Florida, it was on the market at a very good price because of prolonged water damage when the stucco system covering the Airform had failed. Due to the design of the openings, the cracking of the stucco had allowed water to compromise all of the exterior stud wall structures at each door. With my background in engineering and our joint experience in renovating spaces, we felt we were up to the challenge of restoring the dome. … read more

Below Grade? Understanding the Ups and Downs of Building Underground

Multi-dome Airform inflated.
7 Photos 7
By Freda Parker Posted 21 Mar 2001 Technical Journal»

Has the idea of living in an underground home tempted you? If so, you’re part of a growing minority. More and more people, worldwide, have already or plan to build an earth-sheltered or earth-bermed home. Earth-sheltered homes usually have their tops and sides completely covered with earth, while earth-bermed homes usually have an exposed side and roof. … read more

How Energy Savings Can Pay for a Monolithic Dome Church

Chart of the accumulated energy savings fund.
By David B. South Posted 21 Dec 1998 Technical Journal»

One of the major benefits to a church, school, or any institution in a Monolithic Dome is the energy savings. Recently, we completed a study of a 34,000 square foot church located near Houston, Texas, and determined it could pay for itself in energy savings. … read more

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© 1996–2023 Monolithic Dome Institute LLC
© 1996–2023 Monolithic Dome Institute LLC