LIVING INTENT
Frequently Asked Questions
A yurt (or ger) was developed over 3,000 years ago in the Central Asian Steppe. They are portable structures that were built as a means to follow their herds as well as endure the harsh climate of Central Asia. The yurt design has stayed much the same besides the addition of modern building materials which make them even more durable and weather resistant.
What is a yurt?
Do I need a building permit?
Lattice Wall yurts are so easy to put up and take down that in most cases they do not require a building permit. This is because they may qualify as a temporary structure. However, consulting your local officials is advised. If you are planning to build a permanent dwelling, the Rigid Wall yurt is the way to go. We designed these structures to meet the local building codes in Nevada County, California which means they are energy efficient, fire marshal approved, structurally sound and ready to permit.
What are Yurts used for?
Our yurts are generally used as tiny home dwellings, artist studios, office studios, rentals, and spare bedrooms. The limit to what these round spaces can offer is only your imagination! Vacation rentals, glamp-grounds, play houses for your kids, music festivals, or hunting to name a few. With the addition of our Rigid Wall yurts, there are even more possibilities, such as building a primary home on raw land or an ADU on land that already has a residence.
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What tools do I need to set up my yurt?
You will need: Step Ladders, Tape measure, Staple Gun, Level, Speed Square, Clamps, Scissors, Utility Knife, Pliers, and a Broom. You will also need the following power tools: Skill Saw & Cordless Electric Drill / Impact Driver. Depending on the size of yurt you are constructing, you may need scaffolding and/or a drywall lift. In some cases it is handy to have a tripod with a hand winch, too. Contact us for details on what tools you will need to build your yurt.
How many people does it take to set up my yurt?
Our yurts are most easily installed by a minimum of two people and up to a crew of four people, depending on the type and size of yurt.
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How long will it take me to set up my yurt?
Excluding the foundation and platform, the smaller 12' - 16' yurts, can be built by a team of two first-time builders in as little as one to two days and the larger 20' - 32' yurts takes a team of three first time builders a week or less to assemble.​
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Do you use canvas as covers in your yurts?
Our yurts use all synthetic materials for the coverings as they will not mold or mildew. They also have excellent UV resistance and with proper maintenance should last several years. There is also an option to upgrade the standard vinyl covering to Duro-Last which comes with a 15 year manufacturer warranty and has a life expectancy of 25 - 30 years. If you opt for the Duro-Last wall covering on the Lattice Wall yurt, the prefab glass windows are required because the standard marine grade vinyl windows are not compatible with Duro-Last.
Is the platform included?
Yurts are best when set up on a circular wooden platform, but it is possible to build on a circular concrete slab or a circular concrete stem wall with floor joists. In General, we provide the yurt, you build the platform. As a resource for you we provide platform instructions. We offer a prefabricated platform for the 14' - 20' yurts, but it isn't recognized by building departments for permitting.
Can I run utilities into my yurt (how do I heat it)?
Yes, many customers, if close to grid tied power, run electricity to the yurt. Other customers have set up solar systems for off grid power. Most of our customers have either a wood stove or propane heater in their yurt. Although, propane isn't recommended because it emits water vapor. Read our blog for more off-grid resources. A consideration to any yurt is the more permanent the utilities are that you add, the less temporary the structure becomes. If you take away from the “temporary structure” status (which in most cases allows you to set up yurts with little to no permitting) then permits may be required.
How long will my yurt last?
The life expectancy of your yurt depends on several factors, including but not limited to, elevation, weather exposure, UV exposure, climate, location, type of yurt, upgrade options, installation quality, and how it is cared for. If the yurt is installed and maintained properly, (they require very little maintenance) the yurt will last many, many years. Upgrade to the Duro-Last covering, or a metal roof and custom siding in the case of the Rigid Wall Yurts, for greatest durability.
Do you help set up yurts?
At this time we do not offer installation services. If you need help assembling your yurt and you don't feel comfortable building it on your own, hire a local handyman or contractor. In some circumstances, we may be able to assist, especially with local builds (Grass Valley & Nevada City). We can help you find a local contractor or handyman, if necessary. If you build the yurt on your own or with hired help, we are available for technical support over the phone. Contact us if installation service is a deal breaker and we can discuss options. We want your installation to be successful!
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Where do you ship yurts?
We ship our yurts everywhere!
MORE QUESTIONS?
Get in touch with us to discuss more.
