Foundation and Flooring Options
Currently, Ekodome kits do not include flooring or a foundation.
Ekodome kits are used for a variety of projects, all of which require different types of foundations and flooring. The absence of pre-defined foundations and flooring allows customers to customize their space according to their preferences. We recommend consulting with a local contractor regarding what is best for your project.
In the meantime, here are some ideas to get you started:
Foundations
We recommend contacting a local contractor to receive professional advice on the type of foundation necessary for your Ekodome project. The foundation could be dirt, cement, or a deck, and will depend on your project location and landscape, zoning laws, and Ekodome weight. We cannot legally advise on this subject because we are not contractors.
Here is more information on foundations - https://faq.ekodome.com/what-type-of-foundation-is-required-and-do-you-provide-one
DIY flooring solutions
For those who enjoy hands-on projects, DIY flooring solutions offer a great opportunity for customization and personalization of your Ekodome. By choosing eco-friendly materials like bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood, you not only add a sustainable touch to your living space but also contribute to the overall environmental friendliness of your Ekodome.
Bamboo is an excellent choice for DIY flooring in Ekodomes. It is a rapidly renewable resource that grows quickly and does not require the use of harmful chemicals during its production. Bamboo flooring is known for its durability, strength, and natural beauty, making it a popular option among homeowners. Additionally, its natural resistance to moisture and insects makes it suitable for the unique structure of geodesic domes.
Cork is another eco-friendly material that can be used for DIY flooring in Ekodomes. It is made from the bark of cork oak trees, which can be harvested without harming the tree. Cork flooring is known for its softness, resilience, and excellent insulation properties. It provides a comfortable and warm surface to walk on, making it ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere in your Ekodome.
Reclaimed wood is a sustainable option for DIY flooring, as it involves repurposing wood from old buildings, barns, or other structures. By using reclaimed wood, you give new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills. Reclaimed wood flooring adds character and a unique aesthetic to your Ekodome, showcasing the natural beauty of aged wood. It also offers excellent durability and stability.
With these eco-friendly DIY flooring options, you can not only customize your Ekodome to your liking but also contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally conscious lifestyle.
Modular Flooring Systems
Another practical choice is to opt for modular flooring systems, such as interlocking tiles made of rubber, foam, or PVC. These materials are not only easy to install but also versatile and suitable for the unique structure of geodesic domes.
Modular flooring systems provide a convenient and flexible solution for flooring in Ekodomes. Interlocking tiles made of rubber, foam, or PVC are designed to fit together seamlessly, making installation a breeze. The modular nature of these flooring systems allows for easy customization and reconfiguration, giving homeowners the freedom to create unique patterns and designs.
Rubber tiles are a popular choice for Ekodomes due to their durability and resilience. They provide excellent shock absorption and are resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Rubber tiles also offer good insulation properties, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the dome.
Foam tiles, on the other hand, are known for their softness and cushioning effect. They provide a comfortable surface to walk on and are particularly suitable for areas where you may spend a lot of time standing, such as a home office or kitchen. Foam tiles also offer sound insulation, reducing noise transmission between floors.
PVC tiles are a versatile option, available in a wide range of colors and patterns. They are highly durable and resistant to moisture, making them suitable for areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens. PVC tiles are also easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep them looking their best.
Carpeting
If you prefer a cozy and warm atmosphere, carpeting is an excellent option for your Ekodome. Carpets not only provide comfort but also enhance insulation, making your living space even more energy-efficient.
When it comes to carpeting options for Ekodomes, you have a wide range of styles and materials to choose from. Natural fiber carpets, such as wool or sisal, are popular choices due to their durability and eco-friendly properties. These carpets are made from renewable resources and are biodegradable, making them a sustainable choice for your Ekodome.
Radiant Floor Heating
For those living in colder climates, it may be worth considering the installation of radiant floor heating systems. This modern solution efficiently warms up the space, eliminating the need for traditional heating methods and preserving the open and spacious interior characteristic of Ekodomes.
Radiant floor heating is a highly effective and energy-efficient heating solution for Ekodomes. It involves installing a series of water pipes or electric heating elements beneath the flooring, which radiate heat upwards, warming the entire space evenly. This method of heating provides several advantages for those living in colder climates.
Firstly, radiant floor heating eliminates the need for bulky radiators or heating vents, allowing you to maximize the open and spacious interior of your Ekodome. With the heating system installed beneath the floor, you have complete freedom to arrange furniture and create a seamless living space without any obstructions.
Secondly, radiant floor heating provides consistent and comfortable warmth throughout the entire Ekodome. Unlike traditional heating methods that rely on convection to circulate warm air, radiant floor heating directly warms the objects and surfaces in the room, including the floor itself. This radiant heat transfer ensures an even distribution of warmth and eliminates cold spots, creating a cozy and comfortable living environment.
Additionally, radiant floor heating is highly energy-efficient. The heat radiated from the floor rises naturally, warming the entire space from the ground up. This method of heating requires lower water or electricity temperatures compared to traditional heating systems, resulting in reduced energy consumption and lower heating costs.