Yurt Care

Regular Checks

Check the covers, straps, ropes, pegs, door frame and crown cover regularly, particularly after storms or long periods of wet weather.

Deal with loose straps, small tears, worn stitching or water collecting on the covers before they become larger problems.

Choosing the Site

Choose a site that is as sheltered as practical from strong prevailing winds.

A well-positioned yurt will place less strain on the covers, fixings and frame.

Avoid exposed ridges and places where wind is funnelled between buildings, walls or trees.

Good drainage around the platform is also important.

Canvas Care and Reproofing

Factory proofing gradually reduces through weather, sunlight and use.

Inspect the covers regularly and reproof them when water no longer beads effectively or the canvas begins to wet through more readily.

We recommend a suitable proofing treatment such as Nikwax Tent and Gear SolarProof , applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Cleaning the Canvas

Avoid ordinary detergents and pressure washers, as both can damage the proofing and the surface of the canvas.

Remove loose dirt with a soft brush and clean marked areas gently using a suitable product such as Nikwax Tech Wash .

Caring for the Frame and Doors

The natural chestnut frame will usually need little attention if it is kept dry and well ventilated.

Exterior wooden doors and exposed fittings may need a fresh protective finish over time.

Use a compatible water-based matt or satin exterior finish and follow the product instructions.

Metalwork and Door Furniture

The hand-forged rings and door furniture may develop light surface oxidation and a natural patina over time.

Apply a small amount of the supplied protective oil to clean, dry metal when needed, then allow it to dry fully.

Storing Your Yurt

Never store canvas or felt while damp. Both should be completely dry before packing.

Store the covers and insulation in a dry, well-ventilated place, protected from rodents, insects and direct contact with damp floors or walls.

Loosely folded or rolled covers are less likely to develop permanent creases than tightly compressed bundles.

Weathering-In New Canvas

New polycotton covers can sometimes allow a few small drops of water through during their first periods of heavy rain.

This is part of the normal weathering-in process.

As the cotton fibres and stitching become wet, they expand and help close the small gaps in the weave and needle holes.

The covers then need to dry fully before the process is repeated.

After several thorough wet-and-dry cycles, the canvas and seams should settle and become fully weathered.

If a particular area continues to leak, contact us before applying additional treatment.

Polycotton canvas also shrinks slightly after exposure to moisture. The covers are cut to allow for this expected change.

Bad Weather Precautions

Before strong winds arrive, check that the covers, tension bands and straps are fitted tightly and that all pegs and anchors are secure.

Keep doors and windows closed when they face the wind. Opening them in severe conditions can allow pressure to build beneath the roof.

Storm ropes can be fitted over the yurt and anchored vertically below the wall line using suitable stakes or ground anchors.

They should be prepared and fitted before the weather deteriorates.

If crown supports are being used, check that they are correctly positioned and secure.

If unusually severe weather is forecast, assess the site and the condition of the yurt carefully.

In extreme circumstances, dismantling the yurt may be the safest option.

In extreme weather, protect people first. Leave the yurt and seek safer shelter if there is any doubt about conditions.