Monolithic EcoShells vs. Conventional Concrete Buildings

Freda Parker • Published • Ecoshell Articles

Here is a chart that compares the construction requirements of either an EcoShell I or an EcoShell II to that of a conventional concrete structure. Please note: conventional buildings require 200% to 300% more concrete, 300% to 400% more reinforcing bar and double the labor. But ironically, it’s the EcoShell that has the strength to withstand natural disasters.

Type Size Floor Area Interior Volume Surface Area Concrete Needed Rebar Needed
Dome 20’d x 11’h 314 sq. ft. 2,408 cu. ft. 690 sq. ft. 8 cu. yd. 1,250 lbs.
Square 18′ × 18′ × 8′ 324 sq. ft. 2,592 cu. ft. 900 sq. ft. 22.7 cu. yd. 4,900 lbs.
Difference -10 sq. ft. -182 cu. ft. -210 sq. ft. -14.7 cu. yd. -3,250 lbs.
Dome 30’d x 13’h 707 sq. ft. 5,744 cu. ft. 1,238 sq. ft. 24.1 cu. yd. 2,500 lbs.
Square 24′×30′×8′ 720 sq. ft. 5,760 cu. ft. 1,584 sq. ft. 42.7 cu. yd. 9,200 lbs.
Difference -13 sq. ft. -16 cu. ft. -346 sq. ft. -18.6 cu. yd. -6,700 lbs.
Dome 40’d x 16’h 1,257 sq. ft. 12,197 cu. ft. 2,060 sq. ft. 30 cu. yd. 4,200 lbs.
Square 24′×52′×18′ 1,248 sq. ft. 9,984 cu. ft. 2,464 sq. ft. 68.8 cu. yd. 13,300 lbs.
Difference 9 sq. ft. 2,213 cu. ft. -404 sq. ft. -38.8 cu. yd. -9,100 lbs.