Embarking on the ownership of an air dome comes with its own set of financial considerations. Understanding the full spectrum of costs – from initial investment to long-term operational expenses – is crucial for effective management. Here’s a guide to help new air dome owners navigate these financial aspects.
Upfront Costs and Hidden Expenses
The initial cost of purchasing and installing an air dome is the most obvious expense. This includes the cost of the fabric, frames, anchoring system, doors, and any additional features like lighting or HVAC systems. However, there are often hidden costs that can be overlooked:
Site Preparation: Costs for preparing the land, including leveling, drainage, and possibly laying a foundation.
Permitting and Legal Fees: Costs associated with obtaining the necessary permits and legal consultations.
Transport and Installation: The logistics of transporting materials to the site and the labor costs for installation.
Initial Testing and Inspection: Costs for initial testing of the structure for safety and compliance.
Operational Costs
Understanding and budgeting for the operational costs of an air dome is key to its sustainable management.
Energy Consumption: Air domes require continuous air pressure, which means constant use of blowers or fans. Heating or cooling systems also add to energy costs.
Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance, including inspections, cleaning, and repairs, ensures longevity but adds to operational expenses.
Staffing and Management: If the dome requires staff for operation, management, or security, these labor costs need consideration.
Insurance: Comprehensive insurance for damage and liability should be factored into ongoing costs.
Longevity and Long-Term Costs
The lifespan of an air dome is influenced by its quality and maintenance. A well-maintained dome can last several decades, but it’s important to plan for long-term costs:
Fabric Replacement: The outer fabric, exposed to weather and environmental factors, may need replacement over time.
Technology Upgrades: Upgrading to more efficient HVAC systems or lighting as technology advances.
Resale Value: Consider the dome’s potential resale value and how maintenance impacts it.
Tips for New Owners
Conduct Thorough Research: Before purchase, research different manufacturers and models to find the best value for your specific needs.
Create a Comprehensive Budget: Factor in all potential costs, both immediate and long-term, to avoid surprises.
Seek Expert Advice: Consulting with experienced air dome owners or professionals can provide insights into cost-saving practices and effective maintenance strategies.
By understanding these financial aspects, new air dome owners can make informed decisions, ensuring their investment is both viable and rewarding in the long term.
A HeroX air dome—also known as an inflatable dome or “bubble”—is an advanced, air-supported structure made from durable, multi-layered PVC fabric that’s heat-welded for maximum strength.
High-efficiency air blowers maintain constant internal pressure, keeping the dome fully inflated and structurally sound in all seasons. Integrated climate control systems ensure a comfortable environment year-round, while air-lock doors manage foot traffic without compromising internal pressure.
HeroX domes are engineered for performance, comfort, and speed of deployment—bringing your indoor facility to life, fast.
The cost of installing a swimming pool air dome varies based on its size and complexity. Prices range from $164,000 to $632,000, with basic structures costing around $15 per square foot and more complex domes up to $50 per square foot. Use our swimming pool air dome configurator for an instant customized estimate.
Operation and Maintenance
Budget for ongoing maintenance costs between $3 and $6 per square foot annually. This typically totals $60,000 to $80,000 for the winter season. Regular upkeep ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your pool deck, potentially increasing revenue.
Cost Influencers
Facility Size: Larger facilities require more materials and higher installation costs, including surrounding areas like the pool deck and spectator spaces.
Pool Size and Competition Level: Larger, competition-grade pools are more expensive to cover.
Number of Pools: Multiple pools increase material and labor costs.
Climate: Extreme weather may necessitate a more durable dome.
Design and Customization
Consider space for facilities like locker rooms and bleachers. Customize the dome with colors, logos, or projectors for an enhanced experience.
Benefits of Air Domes vs. Other Enclosures
Cost: Air domes are generally cheaper to install and maintain.
Flexibility: Easily removable and retrofitted to existing structures.
Sustainability: Long lifespan (up to 30 years) and energy-efficient.
Minimal Maintenance: Requires less upkeep compared to permanent structures.
Financing Options
Loans, Grants, and Government Funding: Look for local, state, and federal funds available for community improvement projects.
Crowdfunding and Fundraising: Use platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo to raise money from the community.
Pool Sponsorship: Seek corporate sponsorships to fund your project.
Get a Cost Estimate Early
Use our swimming pool air dome configurator for an instant customized estimate.
Swimming domes, an innovative concept in aquatic architecture, are transforming the way we approach water-based activities and recreation. These domes encapsulate pools in a controlled, aesthetically pleasing environment, offering year-round swimming experiences regardless of external weather conditions. Their increasing popularity highlights their multifaceted value in terms of functionality, health benefits, and environmental sustainability.
The primary value of swimming domes lies in their ability to extend the swimming season. Traditional outdoor pools are often limited by weather and seasonality, but swimming domes offer a controlled environment that allows for swimming and water activities all year round. This feature is particularly beneficial in regions with colder climates or variable weather patterns, where outdoor pools are unusable for significant parts of the year.
Swimming domes also offer health and wellness benefits. Regular swimming is a fantastic form of exercise, known for improving cardiovascular health, flexibility, and strength with minimal impact on joints. By providing a weather-proof swimming environment, domes encourage consistent physical activity. Moreover, the controlled environment within the dome can be optimized for comfort and safety, with regulated temperatures and protected from external pollutants or allergens, making it ideal for swimmers of all ages and health conditions.
From an environmental perspective, swimming domes are a sustainable option. They can be designed to be energy-efficient, using less energy to heat and maintain the pool compared to traditional outdoor pools, especially in cooler climates. The dome structure can also incorporate advanced materials and design features, such as UV-resistant and insulating materials, to further reduce energy consumption.
Aesthetically, swimming domes provide an appealing and customizable design. They can be designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape or built as a standout architectural feature. The translucent materials commonly used in dome construction allow natural light to permeate the space, creating a bright, open atmosphere that enhances the swimming experience.
In terms of community and recreational value, swimming domes can serve as community hubs, providing a year-round gathering place for recreational activities, swimming lessons, and aquatic therapy sessions. This not only promotes community engagement and social interaction but also supports local economies by providing consistent employment opportunities and attracting visitors year-round.
In conclusion, swimming domes represent a smart fusion of design, utility, and sustainability. They not only enhance the swimming experience by providing a comfortable, year-round environment but also contribute positively to health and wellness, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. As we advance in creating versatile and sustainable recreational spaces, swimming domes stand out as an innovative solution, harmoniously blending the joys of swimming with the demands of modern life.
For new soccer dome operators, Herox is your dependable partner, guiding you through the complexities of planning, building, and maintaining your dome. We offer continuous support, not just during construction but throughout the dome’s 20-year life, with expert advice, operational best practices, and emergency support.
Building a soccer dome with Herox involves clear, upfront communication about design, requirements, and pricing. Herox’s air-supported domes offer a cost-effective, year-round solution for soccer facilities. These domes provide vast, unobstructed interior spaces and are adaptable to changing weather, designed to endure harsh conditions while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. Their R-10 insulation, coupled with remote monitoring and automated controls, ensures efficient and safe dome operation.
Herox covers all aspects of dome construction, design, fabric membrane, R10 insulation, safety cables, entry/exit components, HVAC, temperature controls, LED lighting, and interior fixtures. A third-party general contractor, hired by the dome owner, manages the site and foundational work.
After site preparation, Herox installs the dome, including fabric membrane, insulation, lighting, and access components, typically within one week.
Working closely with general contractors and consultants, Herox ensures your project is completed smoothly, on time, and within budget.
Soccer domes can vary in size to accommodate different age groups and league requirements. Each Herox project is custom-designed to fit specific facility layouts, whether retrofitting existing fields or building new ones. Their domes are the most cost-effective option for indoor soccer facilities.
As a first-time buyer, understanding dome operation complexities is vital. Herox provides long-term service, offering responsive and reliable operational support, and has maintained a perfect record of client retention due to their commitment to long-term service partnerships.
