An introduction to Dome-Shaped Roofs

As the name suggests, a dome roof is a roof in the shape of a dome or in simple words a hemisphere. Dome roofs have been around for thousands of years. ?Half a hemispherical dome is called a semi-dome whereas other variations of that are called false domes. All of the different types of domes have a curved or rounded top. The geometry of a dome allows for the even distribution of weight, reducing the risk of collapse and enabling the construction of large, open spaces. This type of roof is very common in religious buildings as well as some residential and hospitality projects. ?

A Brief History of Dome-Shaped Roofs

The domes were first found in Mesopotamia in 2000 BC where they were used in temples and palaces. In the course of history, they have been adopted by various civilizations and cultures, including ancient Rome, the Byzantine Empire, the Islamic world, and Renaissance architecture.

In the ancient Middle East, India, and the Mediterranean the dome roofs were made of fired clay brick which were often very heavy. It was the Romans who first figured out how to construct the soaring domes that we recognize today. In fact, one of the most famous ancient domes is the Pantheon in Rome which was built in 126 AD. It is one of the largest unreinforced concrete domes in the world. During the Middle Ages, the light, vertical style of Gothic dome architecture became more popular than the classic Roman dome. Some of the other famous dome shape roofs from across the world are Taj Mahal in India and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.

Modern Day Dome Roofs

The evolution of architectural techniques has changed the way modern domes are constructed. Today the domes are no longer confined to the classical designs. Domes offer a wide variety of practical and aesthetic applications in modern architecture. In the modern times we need to think of sustainability and energy efficiency as well in construction. There are now domes made of mud or mud domes which is an eco-friendly and low-cost construction option. Then there is Inflatable domes which are light and mobile structures made flexible materials, such as fabric or plastic membranes. Tensile domes are used for applications such as exhibition halls, event spaces and sports galleries. Domes are also used as a feature to bring in natural light. They are made of glass or polycarbonate sheets with steel or wooden structures.

• Tensile Membrane Roof: Tensile roofs are ideal for covering large spans of area. These structures rely on tension rather than compression or bending to maintain their shape, often utilising cables, masts, or metal frames to hold the fabric in place.
• Bitumen shingles: Bitumen shingles are flexible and easily adapts to curved structure. This makes them an ideal choice for dome roofs. You can explore BARDOLINE Roofing Shingles?from ONDULINE for your next roofing projects.
• Metal Roofing Sheets: Metal roofing sheets can also be used for dome roofs however most of them are prone to rust and corrosion and may not offer a classical appearance.
• Polycarbonate roofing sheets: These are ideal options to use as a skylight for dome roofing. They let in natural light which further elevates the feel and look of the building. ONDUCLAIR polycarbonate roofing sheets are UV resistant and has high?light transmission. You can read more about them here.
• ONDULINE Roofing : Lightweight corrugated bitumen roofing sheets from ONDULINE and roof tiles ONDUVILLA?are a great choice for dome roofs. They are extremely lightweight and flexible as well as waterproof, with excellent resistance to extreme weather conditions, making them a durable and functional solution for complex roofing designs.

Domes have always stood the test of time as an architectural marvel. In the present day they are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Dome structures have become increasingly popular for event venues as well as hospitality projects in the form of cottages. ?The changes in the technology and new materials in roofing have revolutionized the use of domes. By incorporating the right materials and techniques, dome-shaped roofs can transform any building into a masterpiece which is sustainable as well as energy efficient.