Building your Foundation

A deck is generally more expensive than a concrete slab, as the cost of materials (e.g., hardwood, composite, or treated pine) and labor is typically higher. However, the overall cost can vary depending on the size of the deck, complexity of the project, and location. There is typically an ongoing cost to maintaining a deck too (such as staining).

Decks may also need guard rails and stairs for the accessability and safety of your guests. Depending on how high the deck is from the ground, it may also need bracing supports to ensure its structural integrity.

Slabs are usually cheaper to build than decks but can vary in cost depending on whether or not you have to excavate the site, install appropriate drainage, retaining walls etc. and the complexity of the design. Another consideration is where you will be getting your concrete from (is a concrete truck bringing it in? If so, is the access sufficient to do so?)

Decks are usually faster to construct compared to concrete slabs, as they require fewer steps and often have simpler designs. There is also no major need to excavate on the site to install a deck (there are exceptions to this). Where the process will take longer are for sections like building a pergola/covered area, staining of the deck (if necessary) And preparing the deck for the King Dome build (which we will cover in the next section).

Constructing a concrete slab can take longer than building a deck, as it requires excavation, formwork, reinforcement, pouring concrete, and curing time.

This also does not factor in time allocated to getting your service connections laid into the ground before the slab gets poured, curing time for the concrete itself, building retaining walls if necessary and ensuring adequate drainage both underneath and around the slab.

Installing services under a deck is generally easier compared to a concrete slab, as there is more space for plumbing, electrical, and gas lines. However, a deck may not provide the same level of stability and protection as a concrete slab. 

If the deck is elevated, it is easier to repair, patch or add any new work that needs to be done down the track. An example of this could be installing a split system A/C unit 6 months after the dome has been completed to add a sense of luxury to your offering.

A concrete slab is more robust and stable, providing a solid foundation for services such as plumbing, electricity, and gas. However, installing these services can be more challenging and time-consuming as it involves working with the concrete. 

When installing services into a concrete slab, you must ensure that you have installed your plumbing pipes, electrical conduit, gas lines (if any) and A/C (if any). They do not have to be connected at this stage but just having the piping in and sticking out of the concrete slab both internally and externally will make the service connections and fit out, much easier.

Just remember, once the slab is down, it will be extremely difficult to move around services within the dome so make sure your floorplan and future-proofing has been taken care of.

Decks require more maintenance than concrete slabs, as they need regular cleaning, sealing, and staining to protect them from the elements and prevent rot, warping, or pest infestations. The maintenance requirements vary depending on the material used. There are certain ways to minimise this such as using steel for the frame and composite panels for the decking boards.

Concrete slabs require less maintenance than decks. They can be easily cleaned with water and soap, and do not require regular sealing or staining. However, they can develop cracks over time, which may need repair.

Decks are more versatile, as they can be built on various terrains, including slopes and uneven ground. They can be elevated to provide better views or to minimize the environmental impact on the site.

This is typically the winner in very rough, uneven or harsh terrain as a result.

Concrete slabs are suitable for flat or slightly sloping terrains. They provide a stable and level foundation, which is essential for glamping domes. However, they may not be the best option for steep slopes or uneven terrain.

The higher the gradient of the land, the more excavation/cut and fill you will need to do. This will mean bigger retension walls and more adequate drainage. Depending on what materials the site is sitting on will also determine what levels of machinery is needed to excavate the site out as well.

Both concrete slabs and decks must comply with local council regulations and building codes. It’s essential to check with your local council before starting any construction, as permits may be required, and specific design requirements or restrictions may apply. Each state has its own legislation, some of which exempts certain buildings, platforms and structures from needing council approval. Most of our clients don’t bother going through council as our domes are classified as;

• temporary structure
• moveable dwelling
• tent (essentially, you are building a very high-quality, semi-permanent dome tent on your property). 

and have the mindset of seek forgiveness rather than seek permission and that they should be able to erect a tent on their property if they want to. Why am I telling you this? No reason.