Yurt Living – Climate Comfort
This is a yurt living series that was recently launched with a focus on purpose. My topic is climate now, which is not a hindrance for yurt lovers at all. However, consideration of comfort causes a need to review add-ons and upgrades.
Once you’ve decided the purpose of your yurt; ‒ be it home, office, rental, workshop, etc., the climate focus is the next phase. From freezing cold to tropical, study the details from manufacturers who offer insulation, gutters, roof choices, dome options, ceiling fan support, and window awnings. Other considerations are roof material choices, wall height, or an extra door.
Pictured above is an interior stove and system created by Shelter Designs. They are located in Northwest Montana and sell mostly to that region, but do offer shipping. This company sells an insulation package, including a yurt wall chimney jack for a wood or propane heat source. Their system proves to be extremely efficient in harsh northern winters and during the summer the insulation barrier reflects the sun’s heat away from the yurt to keep cool on hot days. They also offer a unique constant ventilation feature which compliments insulation.
Keep in mind that an air-tight yurt can have interior mold and mildew issues in any climate. My yurt from Yurts of Hawaii happens to be located in the tropical rain forest where mold is a major issue. Yet regardless of location, you’ll find that all manufacturers recommend a platform as pictured, ‒ versus erecting a yurt on the ground.
The Colorado Yurt Company explains insulation options well for roof, walls and windows. They are the major supplier to Yurts of Hawaii and as all manufacturers, are in the process of sourcing more sustainable materials beyond insulation needs.
I confess to surprise that insulation was necessary in my tropical climate near seashore. It seems to be recommended everywhere. Stay tuned for more information about how to maintain comfort in your yurt and project costs. As always, comments are welcome.
RELATED POSTS:
Yurt Living – Getting Started
Live in a Well Rounded Dwelling and Build a Yurt Outside
It’s great of you to share your first hand knowledge with other future yurt people. I salute your generous effort and thoughtfully written planning strategy. Is there a way to subscribe to your blogs? We’ll link you when the link page goes live. Mahalo Delia!
THANKS Melissa!
To subscribe, go to http://greenoptions.com/author/delia and view right column for “Stay Up to Date” and click on “Author Feed”.
I lived in a yurt for a few days at a time here and there in western china. It was a fantastic experience although a little less luxurious as the examples above.