Geodesic domes are aerodynamic, wind resistant and enormously strong. They also have superior air circulation compared to traditional square buildings.

SOLARDOME® glasshouses are made from non corrosive aluminium components and 4mm float glass known for it's clarity and strength.  Domes have a powder coated finish to all exterior surfaces and all fittings are made with stainless steel to prevent moss build up. The domes are greater than 97.5% recyclable.

It provides optimum light transmission, heat retention and superb ventilation - reducing temperature differential.  The geodesic shape is the perfect shape for growing plants.

Under normal circumstances, and if built further than 5m from the house, no planning permission is required in the UK for any of our domes.  If closer than 5m to the house it is classed as an extension and standard allowances apply.  None of the domes require building regulations if they are situated over a meter away from any boundaries.  If you live in a listed building or an area of outstanding natural beauty and a conservation area, you will need to check with your local planning office.

Yes, the assembly instructions are detailed and carefully written. If you are any good at DIY you will find the dome easy to erect. Only basic hand tools are needed and a ladder or access tower depending on the size.

For longevity it is preferable to put the dome on a solid, level base of: concrete, patio slabs, or decking.  At a minimum there must be a level solid base under the circumference of the dome's foundation plates.

Yes you can have up to 3 doors in a dome at a 72 degrees difference to each other.

You can put up to 5 vents in the roof per dome and as many side windows as required.

If sealed properly around the nodal points when erecting the dome it will be water tight. It is designed to be an outdoor room so condensation may collect inside if the windows are shut and there is no heating.  This might occasionally drip in the dome.  You are not advised to put delicate soft furnishings in the dome.

Yes. The best models are the SD 3B or 4B. They are all circular allowing room for plants or a seating area as well as a pool. They are also good for small exercise pools or spas above ground level.  We do not provide standard elongated pool covers but do have partner companies we can put you in touch with if requested.

Yes. The entry has a very low sill which allows easy access for wheelchairs or wheelbarrows etc.

No - panes of glass rarely break, even in high winds, due to the unique way the glass is held in the triangles and is never under tension. Toughened glass can be put in at lower level and in the door if being used as a pool cover. However all educational domes have 4mm toughened glass as standard.

You can get any 4mm section ie toughened, obscured styppolite glass or solid polycarbonate; we can also provide a UV reflective film to go over the glass if required.

Not if all the ventilation is being used. Ventilation is at base, mid and roof levels. When all the ventilation is open the maximum difference in temperature between inside and out is about 5-7°C.

Yes in winter close down the windows and the dome will heat up several degrees, especially when it is very cold but the sun is out. However you may need a fan heater for the winter on cloudy days if you are using it to grow tropical plants. Most people put electricity under the ground when they do the base to allow for appliances in the dome.

SOLARDOME® glasshouses have been in production for 40 years and the original models are nearly all still going strong. The current domes are made with non-corrosive materials and are virtually maintenance free. A Dome should last well over 30 years if looked after and can even be taken with you if you move house.

To keep them looking good a spring clean once or twice a year is a good idea. We recommend washing them with a telescopic pole with a window cleaning kit attached or a jet power wash and a mop.

Yes a small wall but it would need to be wide enough for the base plates to sit on (refer to site prep info).  It is advisable to only have one door if it is on a wall.

All of our domes fit over at least a 6 person spa but most people choose the SD2B or SD3B providing plenty of leisure space as well as the spa.

There were two types of dome manufactured, the Basic and Deluxe. Only the Deluxe is still available today.

SOLARDOME® glasshouse Deluxe / Basic Identification

Firstly find the size of your dome - (measurements are approximate, measure the inside diameter of the dome, across its base at ground level); secondly decide which type of dome you have from these photos.

SOLARDOME® glasshouse Deluxe (Manufactured 1977 - Present)

Six PVC copings joining under a capping disc

Five struts joined with a clamping mechanism.

SOLARDOME® glasshouse Basics Manufactured 1969 - 1994

Galvanised steel strut

Clamping mechanism

Basic coping

Having identified the size and type of your dome please use the contact us page to send us an email or contact us on 0845 4502155 for spare parts.