Glamping is the most convenient way to experience living in harmony with nature. It’s more comfortable than camping due to the additional features like insulation and a cozy fireplace to warm the space.

Yurt is a popular accommodation for glamping. It’s a tension fabric structure that’s circular and way larger than an ordinary camping tent. Modern yurts are also insulated, suitable for finding comfort in remote locations despite harsh weather conditions.

Setting up an insulated yurt is a perfect do-it-yourself (DIY) project. With the help of friends, you can build a space suitable for glamping and even for full-time living. Here are some steps to serve as your guide:

Pick a Yurt Kit

The first step to building your dream glamping accommodation is picking a yurt kit. You can choose one large enough to accommodate a family or a tiny yurt cozy for one or two people.

Many suppliers offer a wide range of insulated yurt designs and sizes to suit your needs. Unlike ordinary yurts, these types are more weather-resistant and ideal for locations with extreme weather conditions. If your chosen location is prone to intense and damaging storms, selecting the most durable yurt kit is a must.

Clear the Spot

After finding the best yurt kit, it’s time to clear out your chosen location. It includes thorough cleaning and clearing of weeds and tall grasses. You may also cut down some dead trees that may fall on your yurt when a storm comes.

Build a Platform

Building a platform is one of the most challenging steps in setting up a yurt, especially if the ground isn’t perfectly leveled. Plus, you’ll need some carpentry skills and tools to build it perfectly. In this case, it’s best to hire a professional carpenter to help you out.

The platform should be the same diameter as your yurt. Constructing a larger or smaller one can lead to waterproofing failure and a weakened structure. Therefore, you’ll need to draw a plan with accurate measurements to guide you. After drawing a detailed plan, you may follow these steps:

Lay down the precast concrete footings one by one in a circular shape. Double-check their proper alignment and spacing.
Cut the beams in accurate sizes and secure them on the footings. Ensure they’re perfectly leveled.
Install insulation boards between the beams.
Secure floorboards onto the beam. Choosing pre-finished boards is more convenient.
Cut the edge of the floor to match the diameter of your yurt. It’s best to use a jigsaw for accuracy.
Apply caulk waterproofing to seal the edge of the floor.
Cut 1-foot strips of plywood and secure them around the floor’s perimeter to construct the drip edge. Install it around 3 inches above the floor, then seal the gaps.

The base of your yurt will hold the structure. If you choose to do it yourself, ensure you’re following the best woodworking practices and using power tools for accuracy.

Attach the Doorframe

When the floor is finished and sealed, you may now attach the door frame to the base. You may place the door anywhere you want. Follow the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure its stability.

Expand and Secure the Lattice Wall

Depending on the size of your yurt, you may need someone to help you expand the lattice wall. It’s the intersecting wall structure that gives the yurt a circular shape. Be careful with your hands and fingers during this step since they can get pinched as you stretch out the lattice.

Place the lattice wall right on the edge of the floor, just inside the plywood drip edge. Expand it around the base’s perimeter, meeting both sides of the installed door frame.
Measure the lattice wall height every 2-3 feet to ensure they’re perfectly leveled. Adjust it accordingly.
Attach the lattice wall onto the door frame using the hardware included in your kit, such as the straps, anchors, and screws.
Install the tension cable or belly bands on top of the lattice wall by securing both ends on the doorframe hooks.

Having two or more people assist you in this task is necessary to ensure your safety. It’s imperative to follow the manufacturer’s instructions too.

Install the Compression Ring and Rafters

Installing the compression ring and rafters requires at least three people since this step can be extra challenging. You’ll also need a ladder and a platform to lift the ring safely. Wear a hard hat to prevent head injuries in case of an accident.

Lift the ring in the center using a ladder and a platform.
Attach the first four rafters in even spacing. Doing so will help you lift the compression ring more easily.
Go back down and lift the ring in place by holding the rafters. Secure them on the tension cable or belly band on the lattice wall.
Attach the remaining rafters, following an even spacing to keep the ring in place.

It’s best to take your time when installing the compression ring and rafters since these parts will determine the structural stability of the yurt.

Lay the Insulation and Roof Cover

When all the rafters are secured on the ring and tension cable, you may now install the roof lining and insulation of the glamping structure. These layers will help regulate the temperature inside the yurt, providing comfort.

Place your ladder and platform on the center and lift the lining up from the inside, going out from the ring opening. Slowly unfold it to cover the whole roof.
Use a staple gun to secure the lining.
Repeat the same steps on lifting and unfolding the roof insulation and outer cover.

Ensure each cover lays perfectly on the rafters before securing them.

Secure the Outer Cover

Securing the outer cover is easier once you’ve properly installed the roof cover. Unfold the material and wrap it around the perimeter of the yurt, securing each hook to the inner fold of the roof’s outer covering. Yet the installation still depends on your manufacturer’s specifications.

Attach the Dome

Finally, you may attach the dome to the yurt’s ring. Tie the dome with a cord, pulling it from the ring opening to lift it in place. Using the kit’s hardware, secure it onto the compression ring. A transparent dome will bring natural light into the yurt during the daytime.

Conclusion

Setting up an insulated yurt is a tedious task. Nevertheless, your effort will be worth it as you build a space to relax, unwind, and return to simplicity.

See also:

Camping, Guide

Glamping 101: How to Set Up an Insulated Yurt