Swimming Pool Air Dome Cost for a Natatorium or Gymnasium

swimming pool dome cost

Swimming pool dome: Cost to install

When it comes to swimming pool air domes, one size doesn’t fit all. The installation cost will vary depending on the size and complexity of your dome. From the ultra-basic to the more intricate, an expert can tailor your solution to meet your facility’s needs and athletes.

Generally, the price range for installation of swimming pool air dome falls somewhere between $164,000 and $632,000. A basic, single-layer structure can be installed for as little as $25 per square foot, while a more elaborate, multi-layered dome could run as high as $50 per square foot.

Use our swimming pool air dome cost calculator to get a customized cost estimate and kick-start your financial planning for your pool project.

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Cost of operation and maintenance

When budgeting for a swimming pool air dome, it’s vital to consider ongoing costs – even after installation. Like a new court surface or a new roof, an air dome requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it’s performing at its best. Operating a swimming pool air dome entails having machines blowing air inside the dome membrane at all times to avoid the dome from deflating. The cost to operate a swimming pool air dome largely depends on the current electricity prices, the size of the dome and the hours of usage per day. 

You can expect to budget between $3 – $6 per square foot for the upkeep and maintenance of the pool air dome. This may add up to around $60,000 $80,000 for the whole winter season. 

This may seem like a significant expense, but it’s important to remember that an air dome will extend the life of your pool deck – and, in turn, generate additional revenue for your swimming facility. 

How much does it cost to remove a pool air dome?

One of the excellent benefits of an inflatable swimming pool air dome is the ability to remove it during more temperate months. If you’re not using your dome all year round, you’ll need to budget for the cost of removal.

Labor, storage and transportation fees will need to be considered when planning removal. 

The cost of removal varies from state to state due to differences in labor costs. We highly recommend getting in touch with professional sports dome builders to check how much you should be budgeting for removal. 

What influences the cost of building an air dome for a swimming pool?

While the cost of materials is an important consideration, other factors can affect your total cost. Here are a few other things to take into account:

1 – Size of your facility:

The larger the facility, the more material will be required, and the higher the installation cost. Suppose you’ve ever had your home’s roof replaced or even a deck installed in your backyard. In that case, you know that the size of the project can have a significant impact on the bottom line.

When considering the size of your dome, it’s essential to include the area surrounding your pool. You won’t just want to measure the pool’s length and width but also the pool deck’s length and width. If you have an area for spectators or benches, you’ll need to include this space. This will give you a more accurate estimate of the requirements. 

2 – Level of competition and pool size:

If you’re hosting high-level competitions, the pool’s size and the dome’s complexity will be greater. Larger pools will result in a higher installation cost. For example, a facility with an Olympic-size pool (50m) will require more coverage area than a recreational center with short-course pools (25m). Knowing who will be using your pool is essential to establishing the overall cost estimate.

3 – The number of pools:

If you have more than one pool, the installation cost will be higher, as there will be more material required and more labor involved. Are you planning to host swim meets and competitions? Ensuring all participants have the same level of protection is vital to the success of your events.

4 – Climate:

If you live in a climate where extreme weather is typical, you may need a more robust air dome to protect your pool from the elements. Consult with a local expert to find the best option for your specific climate.

Design and customization considerations for swimming pool air domes

One of the fantastic perks of choosing an air-supported structure for your pool enclosure is customization. When installing an air dome over a swimming pool, there are a few things to keep in mind in regards to design:

1 – Space

As we mentioned above, your facility isn’t just the pool itself. You need to consider how much space you need around the pool and the pool deck to keep your athletes and spectators safe and comfortable.

2 – Facilities

Locker rooms, storage rooms, and other support facilities are essential for any swimming pool. Make sure you have enough space to include these amenities in your design. The last thing you want is to force your attendees outside in the winter to grab their gear.

3 – Bleachers

Especially if you are hosting competitions, bleachers are a necessary part of your facility. They provide spectators with a safe place to watch the action, and they also add to the overall aesthetic of your pool.

Once you’ve decided on the amenities and features you want, it’s time to start thinking about the design. You can customize the color of your dome, add your team logo or school name, or even add projectors to throw images on the dome’s interior. These all add to the experience of swimming in an air-supported pool.

Benefits of air domes vs. other swimming pool enclosures

Installing an air dome is a great way to protect your pool deck from the elements and extend its life. But what are the benefits of an air dome vs. other swimming pool enclosures?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

1 – Less Expensive

In general, air domes are less expensive to install and operate than other types of enclosures. Permanent roofs or domes can be quite costly and often require ongoing maintenance.

2 – Flexibility

An air dome can be easily removed when it’s not in use. This flexibility allows you to offer an open-air pool during the summer months and a protected collection during the winter. Especially for community recreational facilities, an open-air pool can be a significant draw.

In addition to as-needed removal, air domes can be easily retrofitted to an existing pool or structure – something that’s not possible with other types of enclosures.

3 – Sustainability

The lifespan of your new air dome can be up to 20 years with proper maintenance, making it a more sustainable option than other enclosures.

Air domes comprise thick membranes that help protect the interior from heat, cold, and condensation. This protection can help reduce the amount of energy consumption at your facility. Your team can easily regulate the environment inside the dome, making it an ideal choice for year-round use.

4 – Minimal Maintenance

Permanent enclosures require significant ongoing maintenance to keep them in good condition. This can be a challenge for facilities on a limited budget or with limited staff. An air dome requires minimal maintenance, making it a more practical option for these facilities.

How to finance a swimming pool air dome project?

As you can see, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to installing an air dome over a swimming pool. You’re probably thinking, “this is great, but my school can’t afford this!”

Don’t worry; we’re here to help. There are a few ways to finance your swimming pool air dome project:

Loans, grants, and government funding

Suppose your school is lucky enough to be in a position where government funding is available. In that case, this is an excellent option for swimming pool dome installation. There are plenty of local, state, and federal funds available to help schools and communities support the structure of an air dome. You are providing an incredible addition to the population. You can take advantage of funds earmarked for the betterment of communities.

Crowdfunding, fundraising, and donations

Another great way to finance your pool dome project is through crowdfunding. Sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo make it easy for individuals or groups to raise money for a cause. You can set up a fundraising campaign and ask friends, family, and community members to donate. Crowdfunding is a great way to get the community involved in your project and to help spread the word about your swimming pool air dome.

Pool sponsorship

Finally, you can also explore the possibility of corporate sponsorship for your swimming pool air dome project. Many companies are looking to invest in community initiatives and would be happy to sponsor your dome. Sponsorship is a great way to get financial backing for your project and form a partnership with a company that shares your values.

Get a cost estimate at an early stage.

Swimming pool air domes provide many benefits to communities and schools. They provide a safe and comfortable place to swim, but they also add value to the community. By considering the design of your project early, you can secure an accurate cost estimate. This estimate will help you budget for the work ahead.

If you are looking for a swimming pool air dome, we can help. Our easy-to-use pool air dome cost calculator gets you a cost estimate quickly and easily. Enter some basic information about your project, and you’ll have a quote in no time.