Where Do I Put My Yurt?
Traditionally, yurts are set up directly on level ground with felt rugs used as flooring. Nomadic Mongolians will set up and take down their yurt multiple times a year. After years of interaction with the lands, the nomad has specific instincts that have translated into some key universal characteristics we should look for, such as ventilation, drainage, proximity to resources, and temperature..
Click here to access more information about substructures.
Ventilation
As nomads, we know that the yurt must be set up in an open area that can be well-ventilated. This ventilation is universally crucial for all yurt dwellers anywhere and everywhere. We recommend that you select an area where the yurt is getting as much sun and wind exposure as possible. Shade is great, but this could exacerbate humidity or dampness. Since the yurts insulation breathable, sun exposure does not mean it will get hotter. It will, however, keep you dry. Open grassland is ideal, rather than the middle of a forest.
Topography and Drainage
The land you choose to set the yurt on should permit easy drainage and the site should be located above flood level. Ensure that you avoid areas that are seasonally waterlogged or marshy - It is important to consider water drainage, snow accumulation and ice buildup.
It is possible to set the yurt up for short periods directly on level ground, as has been done for thousands of years, and you can live a temporarily dry existence this way. However, for extended periods and in climates with higher precipitation, water will do its best to infiltrate the interior of the yurt. To manage this, we highly recommend installing your yurt on a round, raised platform. This will help keep you and your yurt comfortable, and dry. In colder climates and/or if you are using your yurt throughout the year, an insulated platform is highly effective. Although the climate in Mongolia is harsh and cold, it is quite dry. The annual precipitation in Mongolia is typically much lower than ours, here in North America. Higher humidity levels increase the risk of mold and mildew growth inside the yurt, which can lead to rot.
It is best to set the yurt and platform on a freestanding deck we refer to as a ‘substructure’. In our experience, your yurt should be raised at least 10 inches off the ground on a flat, level surface. Depending on your specific location and needs, the building of your substructure will take on specific characteristics. See the link to the substructure.
Proximity to Resources
Depending on how you choose to use your yurt, this can be of great importance. If you are planning to live in your yurt you should take into consideration your proximity to clean water, and basic amenities. You should also ensure you are in a safe location protected from predators.
Temperature
The yurt has existed for centuries in harsh environments and diverse climates, but they are happiest in the cold. They do not like humid, warm, and boggy areas. It is important to keep this in mind, as natural materials will promote the growth of organisms and bacteria like mold under the right conditions. Rule of thumb: A rainforest or a similar climate is not a great place for a traditional ger.
Related Articles
How can I get my yurt
At Groovy Yurts, we are nomads too. A few times a year we load up our Groovy vehicles with as many yurts as possible and head out on an epic journey across North America. Our Groovy Delivery Tours are designed to offer affordable delivery prices ...Is a Mongolian Yurt Right for You?
Over the last five years, Groovy Yurts has witnessed an incredible surge in interest and usage of yurts - specifically Mongolian gers (or traditional yurts). This trend was further amplified by the onset of the pandemic in 2020, and as we transition ...What is a Yurt? : A crash course on the 'Groovy Yurt'
A yurt or ger in Mongolia, is the traditional dwelling of Central Asian nomads. More than a tent, the yurt is the result of ancient savoir-faire and has been developed over thousands of years. Made to resist extreme climates, the yurt’s shape and ...Dear Yurt, you're not in Mongolia anymore: Our journey toward permitting an ancient and traditional structure
PLEASE NOTE: The process of permitting a yurt will take time so it’s best to start as soon as you are thinking about a purchase. Please consult with your local municipality regarding building codes, laws, and permit fees before committing. For ...List of Materials and Processes - Traditional Yurt Collection
Structure (walls): Material: Wood - Tamarack Treatment: Kiln dried until residual humidity of 6%. Treated with two layers of water-based colored varnish. Structure (roof rafters/huns): Material: Wood - Tamarack Treatment: Kiln dried until a residual ...