The Turkic version of the yurt involves bent poles within the frame, allowing them to serve both as the tops of walls and the roof. There is a roof ring, but it is light and does not require supports. In contrast, the Mongolian roof poles are straight, and the central roof ring is heavier, requiring internal supports which cuts down on interior space to some degree. The roof ring of the Mongolian yurt is more difficult to fabricate than the Turkic version, requiring a carpenter with at least moderate skill. In older Kazakh communities the roof ring would be passed down from father to son, and the family’s longevity measured by the amount of stains left on the ring by smoke throughout its years hanging over the cooking fire.

The idea of the yurt has passed from the east to the modern west, but the buildings there are substantially less portable and quite a bit more complicated. A western, modern yurt might include such building materials as steel aircraft cables, canvas and architectural fabrics. As wood is not a scarce commodity when building these versions more of it may be used – certainly fabric becomes less and less important for structure. The yurt of the modern west is built not out of necessity, but as a statement of environmental sustainability and simplicity. Of course this is only true if it is not built with expensive, heavy woods and other lavish materials as some modern yurts are, resulting in a simple and elegant appearance, but in a luxurious reality.

There price of a yurt is a major advantage. Most yurts cost somewhere between $5,000 and $20,000. Compare that to the cost of a traditional home in many areas and there is no doubt that you will save money by living in a yurt in most parts of the country.

Another advantage is the portability of a yurt. Since it can be torn down and moved to another location, you can take it with you if you have to relocate. That means you will never have to buy another home. All you need is a piece of land large enough to erect your yurt.

If you plan on living in a yurt in an area where the weather gets cold, you will need to invest in the roof and wall insulation packages that are offered by most manufacturers. This will increase the cost of your yurt, but with proper insulation and a good wood stove you will be comfortable in even the coldest weather.

By opening the windows and dome, you can get enough ventilation to keep the yurt from getting too overheated in the summer. However, if you live in a very hot climate it may not be enough. You will be about as comfortable inside of the yurt as you are outside in the summer. You can make the summer heat more bearable by erecting your yurt in a shady area.

The small size of a yurt may be a drawback for some people. The largest yurts are only 30 feet in diameter, which is about 700 square feet. Zoning laws and building codes can also be a problem in some areas.

1. Camping:  Yurts are fantastic for camping because they can be used just about anywhere!
2. Schools:  You can run a school in a yurt. Thus, if a high school or even a college were having renovations done, classes still happen because of yurt shelter options.
3. Festivals:  If you like to go to music festivals or are planning one, then you should consider using a yurt. This makeshift type of housing will allow you to camp out or be able to sell food at such an event.
4. Home Away from Home:  Yurts are useful items for people who want to spend some time away from the world or want an alternative form of housing. Individuals and families can both use yurts for their housing options.
5. Anywhere:  You can use a yurt anywhere you can carry and assemble it. This means you can use it on a mountaintop or on a beach or even in a desert. This diversity makes it useful for people on the go and in need of shelter!

Yurts are great because they truly can be used for a variety of purposes. These structures are fantastic for folks who need some shelter that is inexpensive and easy to move. Forget having to deal with tons of construction or having to shill out major money for building supplies. Yurts are an alternative that just keep getting better!

Once these determinations have been made the house can be designed accordingly. The initial design considerations will be the overall size that could range from 20’ in diameter to 40’ or larger. For a family, the design should allow ample area for sleeping rooms and bathrooms. Conversely, for a single person or a couple, the floor plan might be open, with privacy afforded in the bathroom.

Many selections that are critical to the actual construction, such as plumbing fixtures, fireplaces and door and window sizes must be made in advance in order that certain dimensions will accommodate these items. Define the entry end exit doors in number and size, then consider the locations and sizes of windows. Having done this, many other aspects of the design will begin to fall into place.

Another aspect of the design is, of course, the nature of the structure itself. The difference between a wood building or a concrete block building would be minimal in terms of basic costs. However, the texture of wood has certain characteristics that differ from the look and feel of block.

Finally, the selection of the interior and exterior lighting and electrical systems is essential in terms of convenience and atmosphere. Exterior lighting is important with regard to safety and convenience, and adds visual effects, as well. In his same way, a dining room fixture that suspends over the table would require an electrical connection overhead, at that area.

The locations of electrical outlets and switches should suit the every day activities of the particular family. For example, a family that spends a lot of time cooking may need more outlets for kitchen appliances and accessories.

These steps are an effective approach to designing a Yurt House that will suit the specific purpose, whether as a year round residence or a vacation home.