Thank you for your interest in our glass and hard-panel dome structures. Below is a comprehensive FAQ that combines all current information, including materials, insulation options, customization, installation, timelines, and process, so you can plan with clarity and confidence.
What makes a glass / hard-panel dome different from a glamping dome?
Glass and hard-panel domes are designed as permanent architectural structures, not soft-cover tent style shelters.
They feature:
A precision-welded aluminum triangle frame
Fully supported rigid panels
Argon-filled, low-E, double-pane glass
Structural silicone glazing system
Customizable panel-by-panel design
Unlike tubular steel fabric domes, these are engineered to function as long-term buildings.
It is also possible to bolt into the aluminum frame and support interior features such as a loft or mezzanine.
Are glass domes customizable?
Yes — all glass and hard-panel domes are custom-made to order.
Once you’re ready to proceed:
We send you the dome diagram for your chosen size.
You mark:
Which triangles are transparent
Which are opaque
Which are mirrored or tinted
You can create patterns, privacy zones, or full-glass designs.
You are not limited to a traditional half-moon panorama window. Any triangle can be glass or panel.
Production timeline:
Approximately 3–4 months from order to delivery.
What materials can be used on the exterior?
You can choose:
Fully glass
Fully aluminum composite panel (ACP)
A mix of both
Argon-filled
Low-E coated (reflects approx. 70% of heat)
Excellent natural light and thermal performance
Indefinite exterior lifespan
Will not fade over time
Mirrored or coloured glass offers the most durable long-term finish (as long as not subjected to physical impact).
Trade-off:
Heavier than ACP
More delicate during installation
More labor-intensive to install
Available in many colors
Lightweight
Easier to install
May fade gradually over time
Standard option:
5 mm ACP
Higher insulation option:
18 mm foam-core ACP (closer to glass thickness)
Foam-core ACP:
Adds some insulation
Matches the thickness of double-pane glass
Makes pattern transitions seamless (no visible lip between materials)
Good for warmer climates or 2–3 season use
Features:
- Most affordable glass option
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Indefinite lifespan
- Good light transmission
- Mirror and tints available
A practical choice for mild climates or projects where thermal insulation is less of a priority.
Trade-off:
- No insulating air gap
- Higher heat transfer (less energy-efficient)
- More prone to condensation in colder climates
Can the entire dome be glass?
Yes.
You can build the entire dome in glass and use:
Mirrored glass
Tinted glass
Colored glass
Opaque or insulated areas can then be finished from the inside.
This approach gives the longest-lasting exterior surface of any cladding option.
What frame is used?
Glass domes use a precision-welded aluminum triangle frame that is internally bolted for a seamless look
For larger glass domes (e.g., 8m and up):
We typically use a higher-frequency frame
Smaller triangles make glass panels more manageable
Efficient use of 4' x 8' sheet sizes
Better handling and installation
What insulation options are available?
Applied by local insulation company
Installed in one day
Adheres directly to panels and frame
Waterproof
Creates a fully sealed envelope
Highest R-value
Eliminates condensation risk
This is our strongest recommendation for permanent, four-season structures.
Approx. ¾" thick
Some R-value
Same thickness as double-pane glass
Good for warm climates (Florida, 2–3 season use)
This is not a full 4-season insulation system.
We now offer pre-cut rigid foam insulation panels that:
Fit precisely inside the aluminum frame
Match dome frequency and frame depth
Have a smooth finished interior face
Do not require additional interior paneling
Benefits:
Clean modern interior finish
Simplified installation
Reduced interior build-out labor
Improved thermal performance compared to uninsulated panels
Standard thickness:
Approx. 40 mm (~1.5 inches), depending on frame depth
In deeper frames:
Panels may be doubled
Important: While this is a strong thermal upgrade, it does not create as complete a seal as spray foam.
Do glass domes include doors and windows?
Yes.
A standard set includes:
One door
One opening window
Additional opening windows:
$500 per window
Electric opening window:
Optional upgrade
Excellent when installed higher in the dome
Operates with push-button control
Improves airflow and passive cooling
How is the glass installed?
Installation process:
Frame assembled (typically 1–2 days)
Glazing tape placed in frame channels
Glass installed from exterior
Structural silicone applied in all joints
Glass installation time:
Approximately 3 days to 2 weeks depending on size
For larger domes:
Renting a Genie lift is strongly recommended
Glass must be safely placed and sealed from exterior
The process is more labor-intensive than fabric domes, but results in a durable, water-resistant finish.
Watch our Pro Caulking Technique Video
What about heat control?
Standard glass:
Low-E coating reflects heat
In very hot climates:
Heavy-duty reflective film can be applied (factory option, higher cost)
Shade sails are strongly recommended
What add-ons are recommended?
For comfort and longevity:
Solar fan (prevents condensation buildup)
Chimney flashing (if heating with stove)
Metal flashing for woodstove
Silicone flashing for propane or pellet stove
How does shipping work?
Glass domes typically ship in:
20-foot container
40-foot container
Customers should have:
Forklift
Pallet jack
Shipping coordination is more complex than glamping domes and may take additional time to quote.
Three glass domes qualify for free shipping.
How do payments work?
We accept:
E-transfer (Canada)
Cheque
ACH or AFT
Bank wire transfer
Financing options available
What is the next step?
Once you are ready:
We provide a formal estimate.
We send the layout diagram for your customization.
You design your panel configuration.
Production begins (3–4 month lead time).
We’re happy to schedule a call to walk through layouts, insulation decisions, or climate-specific recommendations.
