Building a DIY geodesic dome requires selecting the right materials to ensure durability, comfort, and energy efficiency. Polycarbonate used for our AURA Dome is a popular choice due to its strength and transparency, but not all polycarbonate sheets perform the same way. ClimaGuard polycarbonate is a new and improved material designed specifically for warmer climates.
Unlike regular polycarbonate, which allows maximum sunlight through, ClimaGuard blocks 50% of sunlight, keeping the inside of the dome cooler while maintaining excellent durability. This article compares the two to determine the best choice for your DIY geodesic dome project.
1. Heat Management: ClimaGuard Aura Dome Polycarbonate Wins in Warmer Climates
Regular Polycarbonate
- High light transmission (up to 90%)
- Allows maximum sunlight, great for cold climates
- Heats up quickly, making it less comfortable in hot regions
ClimaGuard Polycarbonate
- Blocks 50% of sunlight without darkening the interior
- Reduces interior temperature, making it ideal for hot climates
- Minimizes greenhouse effect, preventing overheating
Best for: Sunrooms, outdoor workspaces, greenhouses in warm regions
2. Impact Resistance: Both Are Super Strong
Regular Polycarbonate
- 250 times stronger than glass
- Resists hail, storms, and accidental impacts
ClimaGuard Polycarbonate
- Equally strong but with added thermal benefits
- Ideal for storm-prone or high-wind areas where strength matters
Both materials are practically unbreakable.
3. UV Protection: ClimaGuard Aura Dome Lasts Longer Outdoors
Regular Polycarbonate
- Comes with UV-resistant coating
- Over time, may yellow and degrade faster in direct sun
ClimaGuard Polycarbonate
- Advanced UV protection prevents yellowing and aging
- Lasts longer in extreme sun exposure
- Better for long-term outdoor use
Winner: ClimaGuard – Designed for intense sunlight exposure.
4. Energy Efficiency: ClimaGuard Aura Dome Saves on Cooling Costs
Regular Polycarbonate
- Acts like a magnifying glass, trapping heat inside
- May require shading solutions to keep the dome cool
ClimaGuard Polycarbonate
- Reflects excess heat, reducing cooling needs
- Maintains a comfortable temperature without extra shading
- More sustainable by lowering energy use
Winner: ClimaGuard – Ideal for eco-friendly, off-grid domes.
5. Light Diffusion: ClimaGuard Aura Dome Creates Softer Light
Regular Polycarbonate
- Lets in bright, direct sunlight
- Can cause glare and uneven lighting inside the dome
ClimaGuard Polycarbonate
- Soft, diffused light for a more comfortable atmosphere
- Eliminates harsh glare while keeping the space well-lit
Winner: ClimaGuard – More comfortable and functional lighting.
6. Installation & Flexibility: Both Are Easy to Work With
- Both materials are lightweight and easy to cut, drill, and assemble
- Both can be cold-bent, making them perfect for curved dome structures
No difference in installation process.
| Feature | Regular Polycarbonate | ClimaGuard Polycarbonate |
|---|---|---|
| Sunlight Control | Allows full sunlight | Blocks 50% sunlight |
| Heat Management | Can overheat | Stays 50% cooler |
| UV Resistance | Good | Advanced UV protection |
| Impact Resistance | Super strong | Equally strong |
| Energy Efficiency | May require cooling | Saves on cooling costs |
| Light Diffusion | Harsher glare | Softer, even lighting |
| Installation | Easy | Easy |
Best Choice for Warm Climates: ClimaGuard Aura Dome
If you’re building a geodesic dome in a hot or sunny location, ClimaGuard is the superior choice. It keeps your dome cooler, more comfortable, and energy-efficient while maintaining all the benefits of regular polycarbonate.
Best Choice for Cold Climates: Regular Polycarbonate Aura Dome
For greenhouses or homes in colder regions, regular polycarbonate allows maximum sunlight and warmth, making it more suitable for retaining heat.
Conclusion: Upgrade Your Dome with ClimaGuard
For a DIY geodesic dome that stays cool, comfortable, and protected from harsh sunlight, ClimaGuard polycarbonate is the ultimate solution. Whether you're building a greenhouse, sunroom, or outdoor workspace, it ensures a longer-lasting, better-performing structure compared to regular polycarbonate.
Ready to build your dream dome? Upgrade to ClimaGuard and experience the next generation of polycarbonate technology.
Technical Properties of ClimaGuard
