It’s a question that comes up when people start to think about how long they plan to keep the yurt. Just like with any home, it can last from a few years if you’re not careful with it.
The yurt’s wooden frame will last a long time. Depending on the intensity of UV radiation in your area, the fabric cover of the yurt can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years.
If the frame is kept in good condition, properly cared for, and winterized each year, your yurt should last decades.
But there are certain factors that affect the life expectancy of a yurt:-
The Location
Where you decide to place your yurt, how it is situated, and what kinds of weather are prevalent in the area will greatly affect its durability. Yurts are built for adaptability, but they cannot adapt to all conditions equally well. For instance, yurts are not made to be placed in an area that is exposed to strong winds. Wind can blow the yurt off of its foundation or lift it like a hot air balloon (not something you want happening on your camping trip).
Yurts should always be situated on a prevalent. If you live in the desert, your yurt faces serious effects from weather like strong sun and dust storms which would make it wear out faster.
Again, if you take proper care of the yurt (maintaining a proper pitch, cleaning the exterior regularly), these problems can be avoided entirely.
The Yurt itself
As levels of insulation are better, the yurt will last longer. Yurts traditionally have a felt covering on the outside that is meant to keep them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Felt can wear out after time, but it’s fairly easy to replace without too much experience if you’re handy around your home.
The outer covering yurts are made to be, even they have their limits. Every wall is covered with a canvas that helps to protect the yurt from wind damage and debris. If your home begins to warp or deform, it will lose its structural integrity. Yurts are sturdy but not invincible!
The Foundation
While most modern yurts, solid ground; especially if you live in an area where earthquakes are common. Earthquakes can cause the foundation to shift, meaning that even if your yurt is not damaged directly it may lose its’ structural integrity.
The Pitch
A proper pitch means you’ll enjoy years of use out of your yurt. This means making sure that all ropes are properly tied and tightened, securing your door frame (most types come. This can be very dangerous for you and your family if the foundation of your yurt is compromised.
The floor should only consist of a solid foundation, ideally made of stone or concrete. If there are trees on the property, they should be at least two meters away from the wall that faces the prevailing wind to avoid wind damage as well.
How can I make my yurt last longer?
The factors that affect how long a yurt lasts are primarily UV exposure and water damage. Take these steps to ensure your Yurt is well maintained:
1. Always winterize your Yurt by making sure you completely insulate the wall panels, lath, and cover.
2. Inspect all seams on the cover annually to make sure that there are no leaks or damage. If there is any damage, have it repaired immediately to prevent further damage or deterioration of the fabric cover.
3. Periodically inspect the lath for rot. If there is any sign of damage, have it replaced immediately to prevent further deterioration or degradation of the frame.
4. You can preserve your yurt’s life expectancy by taking a few preventative steps: – Keep the inside of your Yurt clean and dry, especially during rainy seasons -Keep the cover out of the sun when not in use
5. Clean and preserve your Yurt annually with a coat or two of an oil-based primer and exterior paint to help protect against UV damage, mold, and mildew.
6. Ensure the doorframe is made of metal or vinyl and any hinges or locks are maintained regularly so they will last as long as possible.
7. Maintain the pitch by making sure the ropes are not fraying and that they are tied tightly.
Although a yurt does not need much maintenance, keeping it well-maintained is the best way to ensure that it lasts for years.
Yurts are built to endure if properly maintained! Taking good care of the foundation, pitch, flooring, and exterior will ensure that this Mongolian wonder serves you for many years to come! If you’re concerned about how long your yurt will last, think about this: if you perform the labor now, you won’t have to worry.