Geodesic Quonset: Inexpensive, Easy DIY Shelter
by SSPENCE on FEBRUARY 18, 2005 - 2 Comments in ENERGY, LAND, OFF-GRID 101
Geodesic Quonset
Geodesic Quonset

Many folks are familiar with the concept of a Geodesic Dome, and the great advantages of strength and minimal materials,

Geodesic Dome
Geodesic Dome

but most have not heard of a Geodesic Quonset, that also brings along many of the same advantages. It’s great for connecting domes, standalone as an emergency shelter, garage, or greenhouse. We built one recently, with a length of 60′, a width of 15′, and a pre-sidewall height of 7.5′. Less than 100 man hours to build, and a materials cost of less than $500 (plastic sheathing) , it’s extremely strong and functional. We built this structure using new 1″x6″ green lumber (1″x4″ was originally specified), but since all the pieces are less than 4′ in length, waste/scrap or recycled lumber would be ideal. All the pieces were screwed together using a power screwdriver and 3″ wood screws, 5 to a connection.

Tags:

2 comments

1 joe dupont { 02.19.05 at 2:21 pm }

It would seem that you could accomplish the same thing by
making a bunch of gable roof trusses and then securing them.
then using wire bracing to achieve some sort of triangleation.

2 Steve Spence { 02.19.05 at 11:34 pm }

Your method defeats the purpose and strenght of the geodesic form. It would require much greater wood dimensions for the same strength. Download the free technical notes at http://www.chalknslate.org/products.htm for more info.

Leave a Comment

Creative Commons license, which allows you to utilise all the information on this site for non-commercial purposes, providing you credit the information with the word 'off-grid.net', which should be written as one word and accompanied by a link to our web site.
View our creative commons license. View our Privacy Policy.

Vivum Intelligent Media Ltd. 2009
17 Scawfell Street
London E2 8NG

email nick (at) off-grid.net,
call US office:
toll-free 1-877-706-7423
OR
UK +44 207 729 2749