RECEIVING THE PRODUCT:

Treat the segments of the GRG dome with care as they can break if struck or dropped.

They are re-enforced with fiber and resins and are very sturdy but can chip.

Pay special attention to the overlap flanges. You can always patch any parts with plaster. GRG is a non-combustible

 FRAMING:

 a) Framing within and above a Ceiling Rafter

 This type of installation impacts on the structural integrity of the ceiling rafters or in modern construction the roof trusses.  Cutting out a rafter requires the advise of a structural engineer.  They will instruct you on how to compensate for the loss of the structure of the ceiling roof joists that get cut away.  For smaller domes, one installs them similar to that of a skylight.  For larger domes, one would involve side wall supports so that the roof won't split apart.  If the rafter is cut you can consider raising the rafter to be a collar tie with the compensating side wall supports.  Always keep within the building code and take the advise of you own structural engineer seriously and have the framing inspected by a local building inspector or certified structural engineer. 

Create a wood cage-frame for the dome to sit in.  This open framed box allows the dome to be accessible from all sides. The cage should be made slightly larger than the dome itself using shims and blocking to do micro adjustments.  The segments of the dome are attached to the frame.  For multipart domes attached one piece then build the dome in segments.  At first use only a few screws (enough to hold the piece) to allow you to micro adjust the position.  The gaps between pieces can be taped and mudded after installation.  Once the dome is positioned do the final screwing to the frame.  Some domes come with exterior hooks, attached chain to these hooks for additional support. Chains and other integration hardware are included with the domes.  Domes are sold as components.  

On the outside of the cage-frame (ie. the attic side) cover the cage-frame with plywood after the dome is installed. Use screws not nails in case you ever have to dismantle the box to get to the dome.  On the outside of the plywood glue Styrofoam SM to provide approximately 7.5 insulation value.  On all seams cover them with red Tuck tape to seal the vapor barrier.  Join up the vapor barrier of the rest of the ceiling to this new vapor barrier box that surrounds the dome.   Over the SM covered box, cover it with your fiberglass batt or foam spray insulation to join up with the rest of the attic insulation.  

 FRAMING:

   b) Framing with a Suspended Ceiling

This type of installation reduces your ceiling height.  Although it will not impact on the structural integrity of the roof truss, it does put weight on certain rafter members that were not intended to take additional loads.  Always get the advise of a structural engineer before installing.  They will instruct you how to compensate for the increased weight of the dome by adding extra rafters or a steel support that will reside on the outside support walls. After framing is complete, create a dropped ceiling beneath the rafters with wood or metal load bearing studs for the dome to be surrounded by. As the dome is below the vapor barrier, insulation is not necessary. One can create a framed box for the dome to sit in or just attach it to the framing. 

   FRAMING:

 c) Framing & a Chandelier

 The domes are sold as decorative products only and are not load bearing.  Any ceiling fixture must be supported above the dome with the adequate framing.  You can cut a hole in the top of the dome for the electrical receptacle and fixture attachments fixed to the framing not the dome.   All electrical work should be done prior to installing the dome by a licensed electrician and inspected. 

 SOUND ATTENUATION

The geometric shape of all domes acts like a amplifier for sound.  This is the natural order of convex shapes.  In order to dampen sound, we might suggest insulating the backside of the dome with sound insulation.  This creates a thicker medium to absorb sound, although there will always be sound reflection. 

 ATTACHING THE DOME TO THE FRAMING

Most larger domes are supplied in segments that join together. Usually they are numbered.  Unpack the dome from the wood create and pay special attention to the number on the segment as they are to be installed in that sequence.  You need to support and position the initial segment marked piece #1.  This is done in two ways. 1) The flanges are embedded with plywood and are created to take fastening screws. 2) on some models segments have suspension hooks on the outside which will allow a "chain" to be attached to the framing.  Once the initial piece is installed, add the subsequent pieces. Remember that for the first phase of the install do not put in too many screws in case you need to micro adjust the placement. Once all segments are in place, add more screws and more chains to firm up the support.  Use a level on the bottom of the dome to make sure that it is in line with the drywall around the dome.  You might consider using a string line to ensure a level placement.  The ceiling drywall butts up to the edge of the flange of the dome. There is a small reveal on the face of the flange so you can tape and mud the dome to create a continuous flow to the ceiling.  Always use an experienced contractor to install domes.  Integration products are not included in dome components.

 Optional Light Valences:

They are attached after the dome has been installed. The advantage of the valence is that it provides a professional finish and upward indirect lighting.  Light fixtures are not included.  We suggest that you purchase low voltage rope lighting or upward mini flood lights that attach to flexible track.  You might also consider a dimmer for these lights.  Remember to have your licensed electrician install the wiring before the dome and valence are installed.  Most electrical code require that junction boxes are accessible at all times.   

 FINISHING BY YOUR INSTALLER:

 Tape and mud (drywall compound) the reveal of the dome and valence to the surrounding drywall.  Put on your tape then do a skim coat, build up the plaster and sand between skim coats.  Finally, prime the drywall and the dome. Paint or faux finish with a high quality paint.   

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     and Imperial Productions®                                                        Feb 2018  all rights reserved