Introduction: Geometric Dome Slide Platform

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Hi, Everyone!

For the last two years, I have had a green slide tucked away under my back porch. Recently, my wife had the idea to attach the slide to the top of our geometric dome. I started this build with only an idea in my head, and I developed the final design as I went. However, I am very pleased with the result. I used a few 2x4s, 2x6s, and three-inch screws from my shed to create the basic platform to which I attached the slide and Bingo Bango...hours of backyard fun and physical fitness for my kids!

Unfortunately, I did not take pictures of the build process. But, hopefully, this brief Instructable will inspire and help you to build a similar setup. I also included a basic Sketchup model for your visualization and planning. Overall, this project cost less than $30 (minus the slide) and was an easy Saturday morning build.

It's a pleasure to share this idea with you, and I hope you create something even more fun from it! I wish you and yours the very best!

Thanks sincerely,

David

Attachments

Supplies

Materials
  • 2"x4"x8' Wood Boards; Qty. 2
  • 2"x6"x8' Wood Board; Qty. 1
  • Box of 50 Three-Inch (3") Outdoor Construction Screws; Qty. 1
  • 3/8"x3"x6" U-bolts (design-dependent); Qty. 2
  • 3"x6" steel plates - 1/16" thick; Qty. 2 (typically found in roofing or lumber section of Home Depot)
  • 1/4"x4" steel bolts with nuts (to attach slide); Qty. 3
  • 1/4" steel washers; Qty. 6

Tools

  • Hand drill with a Phillips or star bit (construction screw dependent)
  • 3/8" and 1/2" drill bits (for U-bolts and slide)
  • Adjustable wrench; Qty. 2

Step 1: Build a Basic Platform

The basic platform dimensions will differ, pending the size of your geometric dome. However, the basic platform I built is 24" x 16" on top (see the Sketchup model for complete dimensions).

Step 2: ​Add a Brace That Spans Two Dome Trusses

The horizontal brace distributes the platform load across a greater area, ensuring safety and stability.

Step 3: Use a Level to Position the Platform

Leveling the platform is very important so that your kids can safely transition from the dome to the surface of the platform.

Step 4: Add Feet to Maintain Position Behind the Main Supporting Truss

The feet ensure that the platform does not move forward off the main supporting truss.

Step 5: Add a Horizontal Brace Behind the Main Supporting Truss

The horizontal brace allows for U-bolts to secure the platform to the dome and increases overall structural strength.

Step 6: Secure the Horizontal Brace to the Main Supporting Truss Via U-bolts

The U-bolts ensure that the platform stays firmly attached to the dome at all times.

Step 7: Attach Your Slide

Make sure you pick a slide that is the correct height for your dome.

Step 8: Enjoy Hours of Sliding Fun!