Are you looking for an alternative and eco-friendly way to live? Have you ever considered building a yurt? These unique structures have been around for centuries, originally used by nomadic cultures in Central Asia. Today, yurts are gaining popularity as an affordable and sustainable living option.

You’ve come to the right place if you’re interested in building a yurt. We will cover everything you need to know about building a yurt, from its history and benefits to the process of construction and maintenance. So, let’s dive in!

The History of Yurts

As mentioned earlier, nomadic cultures such as the Mongols and Turkic peoples of Central Asia have used yurts for centuries. They designed these portable structures to withstand harsh weather conditions while providing a comfortable living space for its inhabitants.

Traditionally, yurts were constructed using materials readily available in the area, such as wood, animal hides, and wool felt. The circular shape of the yurt was aesthetically pleasing and practical for easy assembly and disassembly when moving from one location to another.

The Benefits of Building a Yurt

Yurts have been making a comeback in the past decade. People have been choosing this eco-friendly living option for many reasons. Continue reading to explore many of the incredible advantages a yurt brings.

Affordable Living

Affordability is one of the most significant benefits of building a yurt. Unlike traditional homes, which can be costly to develop and maintain, yurts use minimal materials and are relatively easy to construct. This lower price point compared to traditional home builds makes it an ideal option for those looking to downsize or live closer to nature.

Environmentally Friendly

In today’s world, sustainability is becoming increasingly important. Yurts are a perfect example of sustainable living as they use minimal resources and leave a small carbon footprint. The materials used in yurt construction, such as wood and wool felt, are natural and biodegradable.

Freedom Yurt Cabins uses sustainable resources to create our yurt kits because we want to do our part in protecting the environment.

Versatility

Versatility is another advantage of building a yurt. You can use your yurt cabin for various purposes, from primary residences to vacation homes and commercial spaces such as yoga studios or glamping sites. A yurt can cater to any lifestyle or need with the right design and layout.

Building Process

Let’s jump into the building process. Yurts are not challenging to build, but they do take time. We recommend gathering helpful friends and family to aid with the process. Our yurt cabins typically take three to five days to build.

Planning and Preparation

You will need to consider a few things before constructing your yurt. First and foremost is your yurt’s potential location. You will need a flat, stable surface with good drainage and no potential hazards like trees or rocks. Keep in mind the amount of room you’ll need for the yurt cabin. You don’t want to start building only to find you don’t have enough space.

Also, consider your potential yurt site’s surroundings. Transforming and utilizing the outdoor area surrounding the structure is a significant advantage of a yurt. You can add a patio or firepit for a gathering spot when entertaining.

Ensuring you know and understand your local building codes and regulations is also essential. Consult your city council members and other land and real estate development officials to ensure you follow the correct regulations and obtain the appropriate permits.

Next, choose the size of your yurt. Yurts come in various sizes, but the most common is 20 feet in diameter. You must also decide on the number of windows and doors and any additional features. Many yurt owners like adding lofts, bathrooms, and kitchens to enhance their yurts. You must ensure you have enough space if you plan to incorporate these features.

Foundation and Platform

Unlike traditional homes, yurts do not require a concrete foundation. Instead, you can use a wooden or metal platform to support the yurt’s weight. This platform should be level and sturdy to ensure the stability your yurt’s stability. Ensure the foundation is solid before moving on to the next building step.

Assembly

Assemble your yurt once you have your foundation and platform in place. Most yurts come as a DIY kit with detailed instructions for easy assembly. All you need are some basic tools and some willing friends or family members to help. As stated before, this process should take around three to five days.

First, you will need to erect the solid yurt walls, which serve as the framework. Because Freedom Yurt Cabins only offer solid-walled yurts, you’ll never have to worry about unpleasant lattice or expensive insulation upgrades.

Second, attach the roof rafters and secure them with a compression ring at the top after you’ve built the walls. The rafter installation is complete once you attach the lightweight steel ring. You can add a fan mount to the ring, which will help with air circulation.

Install the crown on top of the cover to secure the fabric. This step will keep your yurt dry. Our yurt cabins have roof insulation that goes above a traditional yurt. We want the best for our customers!

Maintenance and Upkeep

With proper maintenance, a yurt can last for several years. Here are some tips to ensure your yurt’s longevity and durability:

• Regularly inspect and repair any damage to the fabric cover or insulation.
• Keep the area around your yurt free of debris and potential hazards.
• Clear snow off the roof during winter to prevent excess weight from damaging the structure.
• Apply a water-repellent coating on the outer layer of fabric to protect it from the elements.
• Consider adding insulation for better temperature control if you plan to use your yurt as a permanent residence.

Wrapping Things Up

Building a yurt is an eco-friendly and affordable way to live and a unique and versatile option. With our list of everything you need to know about building a yurt, proper planning, preparation, and regular maintenance, your yurt can provide a comfortable and sustainable living space. So, why not consider building a yurt and experience the joys of simple living? We promise you won’t regret it.