How much does a monolithic dome home cost?
How much does a monolithic dome home cost?
$100 – $250 cost per square foot
$180,000 – $500,000 average total cost
Monolithic dome home cost
A monolithic dome home costs $100 to $250 per square foot or $180,000 to $500,000 on average, not including the land or site prep. The cost of a monolithic dome home depends on the dome size, foundation type, and interior finishes and fixtures. Monolithic domes are highly energy efficient and can withstand powerful hurricanes and tornadoes.
| Dome size (square feet) |
Average cost* |
|---|---|
| 800 | $80,000 – $200,000 |
| 1,000 | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| 1,200 | $120,000 – $300,000 |
| 1,500 | $150,000 – $375,000 |
| 1,800 | $180,000 – $450,000 |
| 2,000 | $200,000 – $500,000 |
| 2,200 | $220,000 – $550,000 |
| 2,500 | $250,000 – $625,000 |
| 3,000 | $300,000 – $750,000 |
| 3,500 | $350,000 – $875,000 |
| 4,000 | $400,000 – $1,000,000 |
*Including the dome construction and interior finishing but not the land or site prep.
Monolithic dome home cost factors
Monolithic dome home prices depend primarily on the dome size and the interior fixtures and finishes. The dome shell and foundation make up about 40% to 50% of the cost, while the interior makes up the other 50% to 60%.
Factors that impact the cost to build a monolithic dome home include:
Dome size: Larger domes require more materials and labor, increasing the cost.
Single dome vs. multiple domes: Building a single larger dome typically costs less than two smaller domes because separate domes require separate foundations and more plumbing, wiring, and materials.
Foundation type: Most monolithic domes are built on a concrete slab foundation instead of a crawl space or basement. A concrete foundation costs $6 to $14 per square foot.
Number of windows & doors: In addition to the cost of the windows and doors themselves, the builder must construct and install an augment frame in the dome-shaped air-form for each window and door before spraying the air-form with concrete to create the dome's shell.
Interior fixtures & finishes: Interior finishes include flooring, cabinets, countertops, painting, lighting, and more. Fixtures and finishes make up a significant portion of the total cost, and prices vary widely depending on the quality. Basic laminate countertops and flooring cost much less than granite countertops and hardwood floors.
Monolithic dome home pros and cons
Monolithic dome houses come with many advantages, like energy efficiency and resistance to storms and environmental disasters. However, their curved space and air-tight seal also present challenges. The table below covers their benefits and disadvantages.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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|
Monolithic dome vs. geodesic dome house
Both monolithic domes and geodesic dome houses cost about the same at $150 to $250 per square foot. Both types also offer many of the same benefits, such as strength, durability, and energy efficiency. However, there are some key differences in their construction:
Monolithic domes are made of concrete sprayed over a rebar-reinforced fabric air-form shaped like a dome. Layers of polyurethane foam and shotcrete are sprayed on the dome's interior. Monolithic domes have smooth exteriors and tend to look plain from the outside, but they are fire, wind, and water resistant.
Geodesic domes are made of a system of interconnected triangles, which are visible from the outside. The dome's exterior offers more customization options than a monolithic dome, but weakening the joints in the shell can result in water leaks.
Monolithic dome home FAQs
Is a monolithic dome home cheaper than a conventional home?
A monolithic dome home is generally cheaper than a traditional stick-built home due to the efficient use of materials and simple construction methods. The dome shape uses less building materials, and the concrete shell requires less labor compared to framing a conventional home.
How long does it take to build a monolithic dome home?
The construction time for a monolithic dome home is relatively quick compared to traditional methods. Once the foundation is prepared, contractors can inflate and pour the concrete shell in just a few days. A basic dome home takes around 3 to 4 months, while a more complex dome with finishes may take 6 to 9 months.
Is it better to build one large monolithic dome or two smaller ones?
The choice between building one large dome or two smaller domes depends on your specific needs and preferences. A single large dome provides an open, expansive interior space. Multiple smaller interconnected domes allow for more distinct living areas. One large dome is usually more energy efficient and costs less than multiple smaller domes.
Can a monolithic dome home have a second floor?
Yes, monolithic dome homes can have a second floor or loft as long as the height of the dome provides enough vertical space. However, it reduces the open, airy feel of a dome's interior space.
Building a larger dome provides the same amount of floor space and costs about the same as building a second floor or loft in a smaller dome.
Can a monolithic dome home have a basement?
A monolithic dome can have a basement, but most dome builders advise against it because it's costly and reduces the home's energy efficiency. If you're concerned about losing the additional storage space, building a larger dome typically costs less than building a dome with a basement.
How safe are monolithic dome homes?
Monolithic domes are incredibly safe and can withstand extreme weather conditions like hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes better than traditional homes. The dome shape also makes them more likely to withstand impacts.
The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) rates monolithic domes as "near-absolute protection" from Category 5 hurricanes and F5 tornadoes.
Getting estimates from dome home builders
When constructing a monolithic dome, it's important to work with a contractor who has the right skills and experience. Follow these tips to find the best home builder near you:
Choose builders who specialize in monolithic domes instead of traditional stick-built houses.
Read reviews of home builders on HomeGuide and Google.
Meet with at least 3 builders to discuss your preferred home size and features.
Ask to see a portfolio of their homes or tour their model homes.
Verify the builders are licensed and insured in your state.
Ask each builder for references from previous clients.
Request a written contract detailing the specific materials and associated costs, labor costs, and a timeline for your project.
Questions to ask monolithic dome builders
Ask the builder these important questions before signing a contract for a new monolithic dome home:
How long have you been building monolithic dome homes?
How many dome homes have you built in the past 5 years?
Do you have any model homes I can tour?
Are you licensed and insured for new home construction in my state?
Can you provide references with contact information for past clients?
Do you handle the interior construction and finishing or only the dome shell?
How much input will I have on the interior material and fixture choices?
Will you handle all the permits and inspections?
What warranties do you offer on the materials and workmanship?
What financing methods do you offer?'
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.