Geodesic Construction... Tips For Building A Geodesic Dome Greenhouse

So... Just what exactly is a foundation and why do you need it?

A foundation is usually built below or at ground level and is the base on which your greenhouse rests. It needs to dip below the frost line.

That way it will keep your structure from shifting and heaving during the freeze thaw cycle. Typical foundation materials in these areas are concrete, bricks, concrete blocks or stone.

If you live in a milder climate a greenhouse usually only needs a foundation as an anchor to keep the structure in place.

In this case all you may need are footings or posts to anchor your geodesic construction project. As always, check with your local building authorities for foundation regulations and any stricter requirements that may exist in your area.

Consider your drainage needs when deciding what kind of foundation you want or need for your green house. Let's face it, in addition to rain running off the outside of your greenhouse you'll have water on the floor inside from watering your plants too. To get rid of this unwanted water's an important consideration.

If you have a complete foundation, you can dig a trench around the outside for drain tiles or just fill the trench with gravel. In milder climates where you don't need or want a full foundation, a gravel filled trench can double as a base for your structure and a drainage system.

If you buy a geodesic greenhouse kit odds are it will NOT include any foundation materials. It should however include recommended specifications for one. If it does not you will need to contact the manufacturer and request them.

Some greenhouses have foundation walls that extend from ground level part of the way up the walls. These usually stop at bench level and are more common in colder areas as they help insulate the greenhouse.

The trade off is in growing space. Obviously if the wall is made of brick no sun is getting in, so the area below the benches can not be used for growing plants. It can however, be used very effectively for storage or even a large water tank to help regulate heat.

Obviously the weight of this kind of geodesic construction would be much higher than if you built exclusively with wood or pvc. Therefore it would require a more substantial foundation. But no matter what kind of geodesic dome greenhouse you plan to build be sure to give it a solid foundation to insure years of gardening fun.