Quick Tips for Building a Deck for Your Geodesic Dome
Geodesic domes can sit on a simple level platform.
Why reinvent the wheel when you can copy someone else’s homework, right? We have been collecting resources from around the web that we think you’ll find helpful when planning your dome construction. Whether you want a rectangular or round deck, there’s no need to sweat when coming-up with a plan.
General Tips:
Check with local regulations but we recommend your platform to be at least 1' off the ground to enable drainage as well as routing of any utilities up through the flooring. Ensure there is adequate drainage and the ground is fully leveled before starting.
We like using batu wood for decks as it has a high hardness rating, a 20 year longevity and is half the price but just as beautiful as ipe, teak etc. Search for a local batu supplier and ask for pricing by the linear foot.
You may choose to put a permanent foundation slab or piers into your site to support your deck, or you might find the temporary nature of cement blocks to be best for your needs.
Note: It is critical to level the ground before you start building. Use a level and ensure that your deck will remain level by adding gravel or a stabilizer on the ground to help keep the site level in all weather.
Examples of deck plans you can buy or request to be customized easily for the size you need:
Build a platform for your dome or a full deck. Here is a 3rd party circular deck build walk through we love:
Deck build - circular platform
Trillium alt design circular platform
Railing systems and Deck Stairs:
You can decide whether you need a railing around your deck or not according to local safety regulations, your own risk tolerance and how the deck will be used. View Rail is a US company that has regular sales and competitive pricing on their express railing systems which is a simple style and a good budget friendly option.
Optimize for everyone’s safety by providing stairs with anti-slip strips on them and a handrail on one side.
Start building a wood platform for a geodesic dome by finding the right deck plans for your project.