Frequently asked questions

Each panel is a structural sandwich: a 1.5mm FRP (fiber-reinforced polymer) outer skin, a 103mm high-density closed-cell polyurethane foam core, and a 1.5mm FRP inner skin — fused together as one piece. Total thickness: 106mm (4 inches). The foam core is flame-retardant. The exterior gel coat is UV-stabilized. The result is a self-supporting shell with no separate frame.

The standard 20ft round dome: external diameter 20.3 ft (6.2 m), internal diameter 19.0 ft (5.8 m), external height 11.5 ft (3.5 m), internal ceiling height 10.8 ft (3.3 m). Floor area approximately 314 sq.ft (29 m²). Oblong configurations extend the length: the MDH-8L (6m × 8m) is 452 sq.ft, the MDH-10L (6m × 10m) is 581 sq.ft. Each extension unit adds 2 meters of length.

A canvas dome is fabric stretched over a metal frame — two separate systems that move differently in wind and weather. MarsDome is a composite sandwich shell: the wall itself is the structure. There is no frame to rust, no fabric to replace every few years, no condensation dripping from cold metal struts. The insulation is built into the shell, not added as an afterthought. The difference isn't the shape — it's the structural system.

50-year design life. No fabric to replace. No frame to rust. The composite shell does not rot or degrade from UV exposure.

Condensation happens when warm indoor air touches a cold surface — a constant problem in single-layer fabric and uninsulated structures. MarsDome's 106mm insulated composite panels help keep the interior wall surface close to room temperature, reducing condensation risk. As with any enclosed space, adequate ventilation remains important for humidity control.

Rated for 200+ MPH wind loads and 300 PSF snow loads. The aerodynamic dome shape (drag coefficient 0.35-0.42) naturally reduces wind pressure compared to box-shaped structures. The composite sandwich shell distributes all loads across the whole structure — there are no weak points at frame joints because the structure has no frame. Field-tested in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, at −45°C (−49°F).

R-28 insulation. For reference, a canvas glamping tent with an aftermarket insulation liner reaches approximately R-1 to R-2. Even a framed building with R-19 batts often performs below its rated value due to thermal bridging through studs. The difference is that MarsDome's insulation is the structure — there is no separate frame creating cold paths.

Yes. Over 100 RAL colors are available for the exterior gel coat finish. The gel coat is applied during panel manufacturing — it is an integral part of the FRP skin, not a paint that peels. Standard is white. The color is UV-stabilized and will not chalk or fade for decades.

Two types: curved glass horizon windows (double-glazed, follow the dome contour) and aluminum tilt-up windows. Window openings are cut and framed during panel manufacturing. For shipping safety, the glass is packed separately. On-site installation is straightforward — each pane fits into its prepared opening. We provide a step-by-step installation guide. Horizon windows are available individually or in sets; the most requested configurations are 2 or 9 per dome.

No. Window openings are cut and framed during panel manufacturing — the cutouts are part of the panel layup process. Adding a window later would require cutting through the structural shell, which would compromise its integrity. Decide your window layout before ordering.

Yes — the oblong configuration. Starting from the standard 6m round dome, each extension unit adds 2 meters of length (approximately 108 sq.ft). The MDH-8L (6m x 8m, 452 sq.ft) uses one extension. The MDH-10L (6m x 10m, 581 sq.ft) uses two. Oblong domes ship 2 per 40HQ container.

Approximately 90 days from order confirmation to ready-to-ship. This covers manufacturing (panel layup, curing, QC inspection) and container loading at Shanghai. Ocean freight and destination-port customs clearance are additional — typically 2 to 5 weeks depending on the port. This is an estimate only. Actual lead time depends on the production queue and material inventory at the time of order. Each order receives a confirmed production schedule before production begins. We provide status updates at each stage.

United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the European Union, and select markets in the Middle East and South America.

The container arrives at your designated port. You arrange pickup through a freight forwarder or trucking company.

Delivery options depend on project access. We can evaluate direct road delivery, secondary transport, or helicopter transport where feasible. The final plan must be confirmed against site access, loading and lifting conditions, and local permit requirements.

The dome requires a level, stable surface. A concrete pad is common but not the only option — compacted gravel, raised deck platforms, and screw-pile foundations have all been used. The dome bolts to the foundation through 16 anchor points around the base ring. Additional anchor points can be specified if your site requires them. Foundation specifications are provided with your order.

Yes. The dome is designed for self-installation. Nine panels interlock along their edges and bolt together from the inside. The entire dome uses only 43 bolts — high-altitude work time is dramatically reduced compared to framed structures, making assembly safer for workers. Three to four people with standard hand tools can complete assembly in an afternoon. No heavy equipment required.

Every order includes a detailed assembly manual. For first-time buyers, we provide video call support during your installation. On-site installation crews can be arranged for larger commercial projects — reach out to discuss project requirements.

Standard hand tools: socket wrench set, torque wrench, a ladder, and basic leveling tools. All fasteners and hardware are included with the dome. No welding, cutting, or specialty tools. A complete tool list is provided in the assembly manual.

Minimal. Wash the exterior once a year with mild soap and water. Inspect the anchor bolts and door seal annually. The composite shell does not need painting, sealing, or fabric replacement. The gel coat is UV-stabilized. The composite shell does not require fabric replacement.

20-year structural warranty. If the shell fails under normal use, the warranty terms apply to the defective panel. Damage from external force (storms, falling debris, accidents during relocation) is outside the warranty. Individual replacement panels can be ordered, so the entire dome does not need to be replaced.

Yes. The dome can be disassembled and reassembled at a new location. The panel interlock system is reversible: unbolt the panels, separate them, transport to the new site, and reassemble.

Individual panels can be replaced. Send us photos of the damage and the panel number (marked on each panel during manufacturing). We produce a replacement panel to the same specifications. You unbolt the damaged panel and bolt in the new one — no specialty repair skills or on-site fabrication needed.