• Thermally broken super insulated energy efficient aluminum frame
• Virtually maintenance free aluminum frame with baked on enamel finish
• High performance energy efficient double sealed insulated glass
• Door choices of sliding doors with removable screens, (swing) single or double, full view doors
• Extruded gutter that blends with the existing lines and architecture of your solarium Built in shade track
• Concealed stainless steel / aluminum / Iron fasteners
• Tempered glass in roof
• High Performance UV protection polythene sheets / paper (90 - 200 mm)
• Shade-net

Low Cost Green Houses
A good selection of commercial greenhouse frames and framing materials is available. The frames are made of wood, galvanized steel, or aluminum. Frames can be covered with glass, rigid fiberglass, rigid double-wall plastics, or plastic film. All have advantages and disadvantages. Each of these materials should be considered--it pays to shop around for ideas.

QUONSET :

Simple and efficient construction using thin-wall electrical conduit for houses up to 10-12 feet wide or galvanized steel pipe commercially formed for wider houses. Primarily used with plastic covering which is easily applied externally but strong fastening at the ends and edges (and ridge sometimes) is important. Wider spans with larger curvatures can use certain bendable rigid plastic panels. Internal layers of plastic is difficult to apply and therefore external double-layer with the air inflation technique is recommended when required. Clear-span interior with minimum shading but some side-wall height restriction on tall crops unless higher foundation supports are used. Higher foundations increase significantly the potential for wind damage. Double-layer plastic with air inflation technique is recommended. Curved Roof Simple and efficient construction using galvanized steel pipe. Primarily used with plastic covering which is easily applied externally but strong at the ends and edges is important. Side-walls must resist lateral wind loads which requires strong posts and adequate embedment and normally concrete backfill around posts. Wood trusses not recommended due to excessive shading. Use steel or aluminum designs having adequate strength and minimum shading. Clear-span floor area, but truss members obstruct gable. Commercial designs available in widths up to 60 feet or more. Well suited to covering with ridge plastic panels or glass panes according to sash bars used. Sometimes covered with film plastics. Side-walls must resist lateral wind loads which requires strong posts and adequate embedment, and normally concrete backfill around posts.

Post and Rafter

Wood trusses not recommended due to excessive shading. Use steel or aluminum designs having adequate strength and minimum shading. Clear-span floor area, but truss members obstruct gable. Commercial designs available in widths up to 60 feet or more. Well suited to covering with ridge plastic panels or glass panes according to sash bars used. Sometimes covered with film plastics. Side-walls must resist lateral wind loads which requires strong posts and adequate embedment, and normally concrete backfill around posts.

High Quality Glazing
Double or triple-walled polycarbonate glazing panels are strong, energy efficient and long lasting. 90% light transmission for optimal plant growth. Plants flourish under the soft diffused sunlight entering the Dome.

North Wall Insulation
This helps keep the Dome cozy during the long winter nights and reflects light evenly onto the plants for maximum growth. Provides shade in the summer and in combination with the water tank, helps prevent overheating.

Water Tank
A large water tank acts as the "Power Pack" of the Dome. The water mass keeps the Dome warm in the winter and cool in the summer creating optimum environment for year 'round growth. Can be used for aquatic plants or for growing fish.
 

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