Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. How Long will my dome last?

A. Our PVDF coated fabric should last 12 - 14 years. Our Tedlar ® coated product should last 20 - 22 years. There are pro-rated warranties for each fabric type of 10 and 15 years, respectively.

Q. Is an air-supported structure strong enough to withstand snow and wind loads?

A. Each dome is custom-designed and engineered to conform with local building codes and climatic conditions. Restraining cables may be added to the design if local wind conditions warrant. Each dome is stamped by a licensed engineer.

Q. If there is a power outage, will my dome come down?

A. All of our air structure packages are equipped with an emergency stand by system which automatically activates during a power outage. Driven by a generator, this system is designed to keep the structure inflated until the electric power is restored.

Q. Should I be worried about vandalism?

A. Vandalism is always a concern, but in our experience hasn't been a significant problem. It takes an extremely large tear to cause the structure to come down, and relatively small tears resulting from vandalism are easily and quickly repaired.

Q. I've heard that air-supported structures can come down. Should I be concerned?

A. Fortunately dome failures are rare; however, when there is a failure it's normally from a preventable cause. The most common cause of a dome collapse is the result of a mechanical equipment failure. Just like your car's engine, we recommend doing preventive maintenance of your dome's mechanical equipment on a regular basis in order to avoid such problems. It is also vitally important to frequently test your standby backup system to ensure it is functioning properly.

Q. How much pressure does it take to inflate a dome?

A. Keeping a dome inflated requires just a slight change in air pressure within the fabric membrane. In comparison, a car's tire generally maintains an air pressure of about 35psi - an air structure's pressure is equivalent to about 0.35psi.

Q. Can I take my dome down for the summer months and re-install it for the winter?

A. Yes, you can. The larger the air structure, the more difficult and costly this can be. For example, one to four-court tennis domes usually take no more than a day or two for seasonal put-ups and takedowns. Large golf domes or fieldhouses can take three to four days.

Q. Is my dome a fire hazard?

A. No. In fact the fabric we use has self-extinguishing characteristics. Although it may melt when exposed to a flame, the fabric contains fire retardant chemicals which make it impossible to sustain combustion.

Q. What keeps the air structure in place?

A. Generally, a dome is attached to a concrete grade beam installed around the perimeter. The grade beam acts as ballast to keep the structure firmly anchored to the ground.