Quote:
Originally Posted by jimjamuser
Speaking of designing houses that would resist burning. I wonder if DOME houses are more fireproof than flat sided houses. I also wonder why there seemed to be a GREATER interest in DOME houses 20 or 30 years ago? Maybe I should just Google this question, but maybe I will get some answers here.
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That’s an interesting question. So much so (for me) that I did some research. Here are some points I found.
- Monolithic dome structures drown out fires unlike conventional homes and businesses allowing for them to stand as other structures around them fall. The natural design of a dome starves uncontrolled flames of oxygen, but the actual materials of a dome structure also play a role in fire proofing. Dome homes are energy-efficient, easy to build and are able to better withstand hurricanes and tornadoes due to its round, aerodynamic shape.
- Domes are difficult to roof. And if not roofed exceptionally well, they will leak like a sieve. Domes are more difficult to roof and it takes longer than a conventional house.
Why are dome houses not popular?
Since the building envelope is so tight, some people are concerned that domes can become stuffy, moldy, or dangerous to live in
- Weaknesses are as follows: non-standard windows and doors installed in frame dome houses, complicated calculations for construction. Building materials are designed for rectangular houses, not for domes made of triangles
- Sound and activity from one part of the house can easily carry to other parts, making privacy a concern for families or individuals who prefer more separated living spaces. The curved walls and lack of corners in dome homes make traditional furniture placement and storage solutions difficult.