Yurt Maintenance Tips
The Mongolian saying goes: “A yurt should last as long as a marriage.” With proper care, your yurt can indeed stand the test of time.
1. Year-Round Use & Staying Dry
UK weather can be demanding. If living in your yurt year-round, ensure it stays dry and ventilated. Invest in a reliable heat source like a wood burner or oil heater. For a low-maintenance option, consider dismantling and storing the yurt over winter to clean and reproof the canvas.
2. Solid, Level Foundations
A strong, level base is essential for long-term installations.
3. Site & Base Placement
Choose your yurt’s site carefully—refer to the Yurt Base page for guidance.
4. Use the Waterproof Groundsheet
- Even on a level base, always install the groundsheet.
- It protects from moisture and reduces drafts when properly secured.
5. Clean & Reproof Your Canvas
- Brushing – Use a medium-bristle brush on a dry day.
- Spot Cleaning – Mild soap and warm water for stains.
- Chemical Cleaning & Reproofing – Use diluted Wet & Forget, then reproof with Fabsil Gold (15 L for a 6m yurt; 10 L for a 4.2m yurt), or UV-protector for green canvas.
6. Oil Your Wooden Frame
Apply boiled linseed or Danish oil annually to protect and refresh the wood.
7. Stoves: Placement & Venting
The ideal placement is in the centre for efficient heating. For side installation, leave space and fit a watertight flue collar with sealant. Consult your stove supplier for specific advice.
8. Use & Ventilate Regularly
Keep your yurt dry and fresh by heating and ventilating at least twice a week.
9. Storage Tips for Components
- Store lattices flat, curved side up.
- Roof poles tied together and stored lying down.
- Pack painted parts carefully to prevent damage.
10. Secure Your Roof Cap
Center the roof cap, tighten straps, and angle one corner into the prevailing wind.
11. Wind Advice & Safety
Yurts are designed for wind speeds up to 7–38 mph. Remove or secure the yurt in storms—even with windbreaks present.
12. Replacement Parts Available
Need a replacement? Contact us—we can supply parts made to order.
Have questions? Get in touch via our Contact Us page—we’re available daily and happy to help.
Quick-Reference Checklist
| Task | How Often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Check for damp, mould or leaks | Weekly (wet seasons) | Ventilate and dry any damp areas immediately |
| Ventilate & air interior | At least twice weekly | Open doors or crown cover during/after heating |
| Inspect and secure groundsheet | Every setup / monthly if permanent | Protects felt & trellis, reduces drafts |
| Clean canvas (brush & spot clean) | Annually or as needed | Mild soap + warm water for stains |
| Reproof canvas | Annually or bi-annually | Use Fabsil / UV protector (15L for 6m yurt) |
| Oil wooden frame | Bi-annually | Boiled linseed or Danish oil; apply with a rag |
| Inspect stove & flue | Annually, before winter | Check seals, clean soot, confirm flue collar tight |
| Check roof cap & straps | Pre-winter / before storms | Centre cap, tension straps, angle into wind |
| Secure strapping for high winds | Before storms | Take down in severe weather |
| Site & base inspection | Annually | Check level, drainage, timber integrity |
| Pack & store components correctly | When dismantling | Store lattice flat, tie poles, protect painted parts |