Do-It-Yourself Inset Openings

Figure 1 — Measure from one side of the opening to the other. Divide the measurement in half to find the center point.

Figure 1 — Measure from one side of the opening to the other. Divide the measurement in half to find the center point.

Figure 2 — Using a level, make markings on the Airform from the center line to the desired height.

Figure 2 — Using a level, make markings on the Airform from the center line to the desired height.

Figure 3 — Measure from center point to edge of opening, then mark the measurement about every foot vertically until you reach your determined height.

Figure 3 — Measure from center point to edge of opening, then mark the measurement about every foot vertically until you reach your determined height.

Figure 4 — At the point at which your vertical and horizontal lines meet, make a mark on the Airform. Then using a level, check your horizontal line.

Figure 4 — At the point at which your vertical and horizontal lines meet, make a mark on the Airform. Then using a level, check your horizontal line.

Figure 5 — Wood form on inside of Airform.

Figure 5 — Wood form on inside of Airform.

Figure 6 — Screw small stakes to interior forms.

Figure 6 — Screw small stakes to interior forms.

Figure 7 — While one person inside the Airform pushes the piece of wood against the Airform (Figure 5) along the markings, another person on the exterior screws small stakes through the Airform into the wood (Figure 6). This will hold the opening in place.

Figure 7 — While one person inside the Airform pushes the piece of wood against the Airform (Figure 5) along the markings, another person on the exterior screws small stakes through the Airform into the wood (Figure 6). This will hold the opening in place.

Figure 8 — To complete the window bucks, add extra support to the curves by connecting interior bucks with small stakes.

Figure 8 — To complete the window bucks, add extra support to the curves by connecting interior bucks with small stakes.

Figure 9 — Another way of making an inset opening is to make a frame to fit the opening. Using the measurements you have marked on the Airform, cut wood pieces to size of opening. Standing the frame up to the dome, check for level accuracy.

Figure 9 — Another way of making an inset opening is to make a frame to fit the opening. Using the measurements you have marked on the Airform, cut wood pieces to size of opening. Standing the frame up to the dome, check for level accuracy.

Figure 10 — After the frame is in place, cut a piece of plywood to fit the curve of the dome.

Figure 10 — After the frame is in place, cut a piece of plywood to fit the curve of the dome.