Once the superstructure was done, the exterior skin was applied: white anodized aluminum sheeting .026 inch thick. Brown construction paper patterns were made for each section, and tin shears were used for the final cut.
The skin was applied one section at a time with aluminum nails into the ribs. Stainless steel screws were later used for all exterior applications.
Dome surface prior to caulking and molding installation.
Great care was taken sealing all the section edges. Vulkem 116 Polyurethane caulk was used along all the seams, with masking tape to keep the excess caulk from making a mess. Home Depot exterior plastic molding finished the seams.
The completed dome was ready for installation. The final task was the shutters: Masonite skin for strength, with aluminum sheeting overlaid for weather resistance.
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All photographs © Rick Kazmierski unless otherwise credited. You’re welcome to share them.
