What are the wind and snow load ratings for Ekodomes?
Understanding structural performance, climate suitability, and what requires site-specific engineering
Ekodomes are engineered to perform well in a wide range of climates. Every dome uses a rigid extruded aluminum frame that distributes loads evenly across all points of the structure. This makes geodesic domes naturally strong in both high winds and snow-load environments.
Generic Structural Performance (Applies to All PRO Domes)
We provide a generic structural engineering document for each PRO model. This document outlines:
• the designed wind load capacity
• the designed snow load capacity
• frame member properties
• panel composition
• connection types and structural assumptions
Generic documents are useful for planning, budgeting, and early conversations with local officials. They show what the dome is engineered to handle under standard structural criteria.
When You Need Site-Specific Engineering
Building departments in certain regions — especially areas with heavy snow, high wind exposure, or seismic requirements — may require a site-specific engineering analysis, also called a stamped engineering package.
This type of report:
• uses your exact address
• accounts for elevation, terrain, exposure category, and micro-climate conditions
• reviews your foundation choice
• confirms anchoring details
• verifies the dome against your local building code (IBC, IRC, ASCE 7, etc.)
• is stamped and sealed by a licensed Professional Engineer in your state
Site-specific engineering is performed through our partner DOTec Engineering.
Wind Load Suitability
Geodesic domes perform exceptionally well in wind because of their aerodynamic shape. There are no flat walls for uplift forces, and pressure distributes evenly across the shell.
With correct anchoring and foundation design, PRO domes can be approved for severe wind regions, depending on your local code requirements and engineering review.
Snow Load Suitability
Snow sheds naturally from the dome’s surface, reducing accumulation and point loading.
Your dome’s snow rating depends on:
• dome size
• panel configuration
• roof glazing areas
• site-specific environmental loads
• local code requirements
High-snow regions almost always require a stamped, site-specific calculation, which is normal for any structure, not just domes.
What We Recommend
If you’re building in:
• a standard climate → generic engineering is usually enough during early planning
• a heavy snow zone, high-wind zone, or for commercial use → get site-specific engineering early in your permit process
If you’re unsure what’s required in your area, contact your local building department and ask what structural documents they need for “a prefabricated aluminum and panel-based structure.”
We can then help you choose the correct documentation.