With the recent economic events, many people are considering alternative ways of living. Many individuals are reconsidering traditional housing and shelter. Frugality, as well as economic smart design is being considered when people are looking for housing options. Many people who lost their home or cannot pay their mortgages are looking for ways to live better for less. Although for many this means to move to another state or place, others consider the building of a structure that is affordable and practical. Mini houses have been highlighted and popular with many people, modified sheds as well; however another structure that is being considered is a Yurt.
A yurt is a tent that is very traditional in Mongolia. Material is usually canvas, wood, vinyl and other blends, and it has wood poles and some have latticework around. The beams extend from the center to the sides. It is considered a house, equal to an RV or mobile home. It is mobile, you can move it if you need to move to another location. This type of housing is affordable. Price ranges from $5,000-$24,000, depending on upgrades. It comes in a box (heavy) with all you need to erect the structure. A platform is needed and it is not included. Traditional building tools are necessary to put up the structure and build the platform. Yurts are secure, contrary to what people may think. Someone would have to saw his/her way in to be able to enter a yurt, something that is discouraging. The structure is very sturdy and resists hard weather conditions.
Life in a yurt can be comfortable. A yurt can be equipped with the amenities of modern living as well. The circular design helps to make the inside spacious living. You can install plumbing and electricity just as you would in a traditional home or use ecofriendly alternatives such as solar sources and no water toilets. You can also use a generator if not installing electricity. Traditional heating can also be installed. Overall, a yurt can accommodate all the appliances of a traditional small home. However, several yurts can also be connected.
Yurts also come with many upgrades, options, accessories, and snow/wind packages. Therefore, you can customize a yurt and tailor it to your budget. Many interesting features such as awnings, dome lifter, a tinted dome, roll up walls, ceiling fans, French doors, and many other can be added. These structures are made of quality wood, fabric and materials that are engineer certified and can withstand heavy winds and snow. The fabrics and wood come in many colors to customize the look. Fabrics can last up to 15 years depending on the climate conditions, and the wood will last indefinitely.
Yurts come in many sizes and life in a yurt does not mean that you have to live cramped. Size range from 115 sf to 700+ sf. Decking will add more space to a yurt. Yurts can be used for many purposes - as living quarters, as offices, guest suites, vacation homes, and much more. Many of these structures are quite beautifully designed on the inside and rival many traditional home structures.
People are looking at yurts as affordable living and a smart choice. It is important to check building codes in the area before installing one.
