Concrete slab

Pros: Very stable and low maintenance.

Cons: Permanent, heavier visual impact – may need planning permission; needs drainage and frost protection; need additional insulation for the area where yurt stands to prevent heat lose.

Size & layout guidance

As a rule of thumb allow a deck diameter = yurt diameter. If you want an entrance, add a 0.8–1.2 m entry depth. Example: for a 6 m yurt allow a clear deck diameter of 6.8–7.2 m

Drainage & moisture control

• Slope the deck or surrounding ground away from the yurt (1–2°).
• Install a crushed stone sub‑base (50–150 mm) and geotextile beneath timber or concrete bases – if you are planning to have a decking in place, you won’t need this step.
• Use treated timber or naturally durable species and a DPM.
• Always place the yurt’s waterproof groundsheet between the floor and canvas to protect felt and internal timber.

Insulation & flooring

Add insulation under the floor for winter use: rigid PIR/XPS boards, mineral wool between joists, or natural wool boards. Finish with tongue‑and‑groove decking, hardwood boards or sealed plywood. This step is an option, if you having a decking for the yurt.

Anchoring & wind safety

Anchor yurts to the deck using stainless steel anchor plates or heavy‑duty straps fixed to joists or concrete footings. On raised platforms fix anchors through joists into ground screws/piers. Increase anchor density in exposed locations and inspect annually and after storms.

Stove, flue & services

Decide the stove position before finishing decking. Provide a non‑combustible hearth, fit correct clearances and watertight flue collars/flashings where the flue passes through decking or roof. Run electrical and water services beneath decking in protective conduit.

Accessibility, steps & ramps

For public or commercial installations build ramps and steps to local accessibility standards. Use non‑slip finishes and secure handrails where required.

Planning & permissions (UK)

Temporary / seasonal bases commonly don’t need planning permission; concrete, compacted hardcore, or pavers may. Check with your local planning authority and follow building regulations for mains connections.

Maintenance tips

• Inspect joists, fixings and decking annually; re‑oil or treat exposed timber.
• Clear drainage paths and remove leaves and debris regularly.
• Check and retension anchors and straps after storms.

Base comparison

Base Type	Pros	Cons	Best For
Timber deck	Comfortable, attractive, easy to finish & insulate	Higher cost; periodic treatment	Long‑term living, glamping
Raised platform (ground screws/piers)	Minimal ground impact; good drainage	Requires careful design & installation	Sloping or wet sites
Concrete slab	Very stable; low maintenance	Permanent; requires groundwork	Permanent/commercial installs
Compacted hardcore / pavers	Quick, low cost, removable	Less comfortable; may settle	Seasonal or event use

Installation checklist

• ☐ Confirm yurt diameter, door orientation and desired porch depth
• ☐ Mark centre and footprint; check level and drainage
• ☐ Excavate and prepare sub‑base; add geotextile and compacted hardcore if needed.
• ☐ Install ground screws or timber/concrete footings as required
• ☐ Build joists to recommended spans; fit DPM and insulation if required
• ☐ Lay finished deck boards and treat / oil exposed timber
• ☐ Fix anchor plates / strap points; test anchors before erecting the yurt
• ☐ Fit stove platform and plan flue route before installing canvas
• ☐ Run services (electric, water) in conduits beneath deck
• ☐ Final level check and drainage test; secure roof and straps after erecting yurt

Need help? If you’d like a deck plan with joist spans and timber sizes for a specific yurt diameter (e.g. 4.2 m or 6 m) and site slope (flat or sloping), tell us the size and site type and we’ll provide a detailed plan.

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