Chapters 10 / 14
  1. 1 This is a Growing Dome
  2. 2 Choosing the Right Size
  3. 3 Build Site Selection
  4. 4 Climate, Utilities & Year-Round Use
  5. 5 Ownership Expectations
  6. 6 Choosing the Right Foundation
  7. 7 Owner-Supplied Items & Accessories
  8. 8 Permitting & Approvals
  9. 9 Delivery & Site Preparation
  10. 10 Assembly & Installation
  11. 11 Budgeting & Project Planning
  12. 12 Maintenance Overview
  13. 13 Next Steps
  14. 14 Continued Learning & Resources

Assembly & Installation

Build options, time and complexity, tools, site readiness and the support available to you.

Two dome frames under construction on gravel pads in autumn

Some owners assemble their Growing Domes themselves or with neighbours and friends, others hire contractors or greenhouse builders, and some work with experienced installers. Assembly begins once your site preparation and foundation are complete. While hands-on, the process is supported through step-by-step instructions, video guides, and access to Arctic Acres' online build portal.

Your Build Options

How to build a geodesic dome greenhouse. There are three primary ways to complete your Growing Dome installation:

DIY (do-it-yourself)

Best suited for hands-on owners with basic construction confidence, or for smaller Growing Dome sizes.

  • Lower overall cost
  • Greater personal involvement
  • Requires time, tools, and coordination

Most first-time DIY builds are successfully completed with the help of friends, family, or a small crew. Assembly involves moderate physical labour, including lifting, positioning panels, and working at height for larger domes.

Hire a Contractor

Best suited for buyers who want to reduce coordination risk or prefer a more hands-off approach.

  • Higher cost
  • Less direct involvement
  • Requires selecting and managing a contractor

Arctic Acres can support your contractor during the build process by providing access to documentation and answering technical questions.

Work with Our Builders Network

Best suited for buyers looking for guidance toward builders familiar with the system, or multi-unit installations.

  • Moderate to higher cost
  • Reduced learning curve
  • Access to experienced installers (based on area and availability)

If you or someone you know is interested in working with Arctic Acres as a builder or installer, we welcome inquiries. Contact us to learn more about upcoming opportunities and our developing builder program.

Time & Complexity

Build time depends on dome size, crew, and preparation. A prepared foundation and organized materials significantly reduce build time.

Assembly timelines vary depending on dome size, crew size, and site readiness.

  • Up to 26 ft domes: approximately 4–7 days
  • 33 ft and 42 ft domes: approximately 7–10 days

As a reference, a 15 ft dome can typically be assembled in approximately 35 hours with a 3-person crew on a prepared foundation.

Larger domes involve increased height, additional components, and more coordination. These builds often benefit from additional labour, experience, and equipment such as scaffolding.

A builder fastening dome frame struts with a cordless drill

Tools & Equipment

Most Growing Dome builds use standard construction tools, including:

  • Drills and basic hand tools
  • Ladders or elevated access equipment
  • Safety gear (gloves, boots, eye protection)

Larger builds or more complex sites may require additional equipment such as scaffolding or machinery for site preparation.

Site Readiness

Preparing the site in advance is one of the most important factors in a smooth installation.

  • Foundations should ideally be completed prior to delivery
  • The build area should be cleared, level, and accessible
  • Ensure sufficient space for staging materials and moving around the structure

If using equipment during construction, consider access points carefully. Larger tools or machinery must be able to enter and exit the build area without obstruction.

Aerial view of a dome with its glazing panels nearly complete

Build Conditions

Assembly is best completed in stable, dry weather conditions.

  • Aim for temperatures above 12°C (54°F)
  • Cold conditions can make panels, hardware, and sealing materials more difficult to work with
  • Wet or damp conditions can slow progress and affect installation quality
  • The final seam taping step requires dry conditions and temperatures above 12°C to ensure proper adhesion

Planning your geodesic dome greenhouse build window in advance will help ensure a smoother process.

Support & Resources

Arctic Acres provides ongoing support throughout the greenhouse delivery and build process.

  • Access to a detailed online build portal with step-by-step instructions and videos
  • Support for customers and contractors during installation
  • Guidance to help resolve questions or challenges as they arise

If you are working with a contractor, they can be given access to the same resources once verified.