Dome greenhouse: calculations and features of the arrangement
The domed greenhouse is distinguished by the shape of a hemisphere, which is assembled from elements in the shape of a triangle. The frame is made of wood, plastic or metal elements. The model is distinguished by high decorative properties and functional advantages. You can do it yourself if you approach the process correctly.
Dome greenhouse: the advantages of choosing a design
Among the advantages of such a greenhouse are the following:
- Perfect aerodynamics. The model is suitable for all climates, including coping with strong hurricane winds. Air flows smoothly flow around the greenhouse.
- High strength. The structure can cover considerable distances without the need for serious support. This is because the weight is evenly distributed.
- Excellent appearance. Such a greenhouse differs from any other type in its unusual design. She leaves no one indifferent.
- Retains heat. If necessary, the greenhouse can be used in winter if an insulated structure is erected as a capital structure.
- If you place a container with water in the center, it gives off additional heat at night. In addition, it can be used for watering plants.
Dome designs retain heat better than standard models. This is due to the special shape and microclimate that is created in the interior. This is especially true for small domes due to the ability to create a sealed interior space.
Greenhouse design features
The dome-type greenhouse provides a high temperature for a long time. This does not require additional heating elements. This is due to the fact that the structure heats up during the day and gives off heat at night.
The domed greenhouse has the following features:
- construction and heating costs are reduced due to the small area of the cells;
- the mass is evenly distributed around the perimeter, even if it is settled over a large area;
- it is suitable for construction in earthquake-prone regions, as it can withstand significant tremors.
The design not only has advantages when growing vegetables and herbs. It fits well into the surrounding landscape, especially if there are gazebos or a well with wood trim.
The model has excellent external data, strength, low weight. All this allows long-term use of the greenhouse. The parameters allow you to set the outer material to film or glass. You can choose elements from polycarbonate.
When a domed greenhouse is organized with your own hands, the drawings ensure the accuracy of the design. Only in this case it is possible to select the required amount of materials, determine the required area, build a work plan.
The dome covers an area of up to a thousand square meters. Therefore, the design can be used not only at a summer cottage or suburban area, but also for growing vegetables for commercial purposes.
A distinctive feature is that the domes are combined into effective complexes.
We carry out preliminary calculations
Before starting work, the calculation of the domed greenhouse is performed with your own hands. A formula has been developed that allows you to accurately determine the area of a spherical dome.
The formula for calculating the area of a circle is used: S = π * r2, where r is the radius, and the number π = 3.14. You can use a simple formula to determine the area of a spherical dome by radius. If the height of the dome is ½ the diameter, this is the best option. Then the following formula is used: S = 2 π * r2.
So, if the dome has a diameter of 4 meters, the greenhouse should be 2 meters high, the dome consists of 35 triangles with ribs 1.23 meters long and 30 triangles with ribs 1.09 meters.
How to organize a greenhouse yourself
A spherical greenhouse is not very difficult for independent work. First, preparatory work is carried out. A calculation is made, after which a drawing is drawn up. A place for construction work is being selected. It should be flat and free of construction and household waste, tree foliage.
A foundation is being erected for the capital structure. It can be welded or tape. If it is planned to erect a strip foundation, a pit is first pulled out. If the foundation is not needed, the place is covered with geotextiles, on which sand or fine gravel is laid out.
A polycarbonate domed greenhouse requires a base. This is usually a small polygon-shaped wall. If a large number of corners are provided, large triangles are created. The 12-corner design is optimal. The height of the dome is of great importance. The low ceiling is inconvenient during use. The optimal height is 2-2.5 meters.
The frame is being equipped. This requires the following actions:
- bars of the same length are prepared;
- sawn timber under the door in accordance with the drawing and predetermined dimensions;
- triangles are cut out of the material for the roof (when covering with a film, this is optional);
- installation of triangles is carried out;
- parts are assembled and fixed with self-tapping screws;
- the door is installed.
At the final stage, the coating is installed. Glasses are fastened with strips, polycarbonate - with self-tapping screws. The film can be pressed with strips or simply nailed to the frame.
When choosing a domed greenhouse, you can get an optimal design that maintains optimal temperature and humidity levels. You can provide ventilation, use the greenhouse almost all year round. It provides good conditions for growing crops.