The Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Yurts

Yurts are circular tent-like structures that are often used as vacation homes and temporary or guest housing. However, some people have taken the plunge and decided to use their yurts as permanent dwellings. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of living in yurts.

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.