Yurt Insulation: How to Keep Your Yurt Warm in Winter and Cool in Summer

When you think of a yurt, a circular, portable dwelling with a wooden frame and fabric or felt covering, traditionally used by nomadic peoples in Central Asia. Also known as a ger, it’s a popular choice for eco-friendly getaways, glamping, and off-grid living in the UK countryside. But here’s the thing—without proper yurt insulation, the layering of materials between the yurt’s outer shell and inner lining to control heat transfer and reduce energy loss, it can feel like sleeping in a fridge in winter or a sauna in summer. That’s why insulation isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s what turns a yurt from a seasonal novelty into a year-round home.

Good yurt insulation works by trapping air and slowing down heat movement. Most modern yurts use a mix of materials—sheep’s wool, recycled denim, or rigid foam boards—placed between the wooden lattice wall and the inner fabric. Some owners even add reflective foil barriers to bounce heat back inside during cold months. It’s not about thickness alone; it’s about how well the system seals gaps around the door, windows, and roof vent. A poorly insulated yurt loses heat fast, no matter how many blankets you pile on. And in summer? The same layers that keep you warm in January can trap heat in July if they don’t allow airflow or reflect sunlight. That’s why many UK yurt renters now pair insulation with passive cooling tricks: vented roof domes, shade sails, and even evaporative cooling pads.

What you choose depends on your climate and how you use the space. If you’re using your yurt as a quiet weekend retreat in the Lake District, you’ll need less insulation than someone living in it full-time in the Scottish Highlands. And if you’re renting one through Welcoming Yards Retreat, you’ll want to know what’s already built in—some owners use high-end, fire-resistant insulation that meets UK building standards, while others stick to basic felt. Don’t assume all yurts are the same. The best ones treat insulation like a system: ventilation, thermal mass, and moisture control all working together. That’s why you’ll find posts here covering everything from DIY insulation hacks using recycled materials to how thermal imaging reveals hidden cold spots in rented yurts. Whether you’re planning to buy, rent, or just curious how these round homes stay cozy, the real answer isn’t magic—it’s smart, simple insulation.