{ "id": 433, "date": "2025-06-02T19:15:17", "date_gmt": "2025-06-02T19:15:17", "guid": { "rendered": "https:\/\/glampex.hu\/build-your-foundation\/" }, "modified": "2025-10-15T12:36:38", "modified_gmt": "2025-10-15T12:36:38", "slug": "build-your-foundation", "status": "publish", "type": "page", "link": "https:\/\/glampex.hu\/en\/build-your-foundation\/", "title": { "rendered": "Build your foundation" }, "content": { "rendered": "
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Build your foundation<\/h2><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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When installing our Domes, there are two main foundation options to choose from: elevated deck or concrete base.<\/strong>
Both have their pros and cons, and the decision depends on several factors: cost, time, terrain conditions, maintenance, utility connections, and local regulatory requirements.
In this guide, we\u2019ll walk you through the key considerations and raise questions that will help you make the right choice.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What kinds of costs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Decking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Building an elevated deck is typically more expensive than a concrete base, especially if it’s made from high-quality materials such as hardwood, composite, or pressure-treated pine. Labor costs can also be higher.
It\u2019s important to note that decks require ongoing maintenance, including surface treatments and staining.
From both a safety and comfort perspective, railings and stairs are often necessary, along with structural reinforcements\u2014particularly if the deck sits significantly above ground level.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Slab<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A concrete base is generally more affordable, though the cost can increase significantly if site leveling, drainage systems, or retaining walls are required.
Also consider how the concrete will be delivered\u2014if a concrete mixer is involved, site accessibility becomes a critical factor.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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How much time?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Decking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A wooden deck is generally quicker to construct, as it requires less groundwork and the building process is simpler overall.
Some time-consuming elements\u2014such as the roof structure (e.g., pergola), surface treatment, or preparing the dome base\u2014may take longer. We cover these in a separate section.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Slab<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Installing a concrete base takes more time, as it involves:
\u25cf earthworks,
\u25cf formwork installation,
\u25cf reinforcement (rebar),
\u25cf pouring the concrete,
\u25cf and waiting for it to cure properly.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, you\u2019ll need to factor in the time required to install utilities (water, electricity, gas), as well as to ensure proper drainage and potentially build retaining walls.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Utility Installation \u2013 Which Is Simpler?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Decking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Installing utilities (water, electricity, gas) is generally easier under an elevated structure, as there is sufficient space for routing and accessing pipes and cables.
Future upgrades\u2014like adding air conditioning six months later\u2014are also simpler to carry out.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Slab<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Concrete provides a solid and durable foundation, but it requires all utility lines to be planned and installed before<\/em> the concrete is poured.
Once the base is set, modifying or adding new lines becomes very difficult or even impossible.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

TIP:<\/strong> Carefully plan your floor layout and any long-term improvements before<\/em> pouring the concrete.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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General Maintenance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Decking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Wooden decks require more upkeep. Regular cleaning, staining, and surface treatments are necessary to protect against moisture, mold, and pests.
The level of maintenance depends on the materials used\u2014steel frames and composite decking can significantly reduce the long-term workload.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Slab<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Concrete needs less maintenance. It\u2019s easy to clean and doesn\u2019t require painting or surface treatment.
Over time, small hairline cracks may appear, but these are usually simple to repair.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Terrain and location?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Decking<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

An elevated deck is much more flexible for steep or uneven terrain, as well as hard-to-access locations.
It\u2019s also more environmentally friendly and allows for more striking placement\u2014like orienting the dome for a great view.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Slab<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A concrete slab is ideal for flat or gently sloping areas, providing a stable and level foundation.
On steep or rocky terrain, construction becomes more complicated, requiring extensive earthworks, retaining walls, and effective drainage.
The soil type (clay, rocky, etc.) also affects the difficulty of machine work.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Regulatory Requirements \u2013 What to Consider?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Decking and Slab<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Both Elevated Deck and Concrete Base:<\/strong>
Regardless of the type of foundation you choose, it\u2019s important to check local municipal regulations beforehand.
Some municipalities or regions offer exemptions for smaller, temporary structures (e.g., platforms, tents, lightweight constructions), while in other areas even the foundation may require a permit.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many of our clients consider our domes as:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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