Off-grid yurt living solution

Weather-resistant yurt structure for outdoor living
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Understanding yurts

What is a yurt?

A yurt is a circular shelter originally developed by Mongolian nomads. Its unique aerodynamic shape helps withstand high winds and offers a surprisingly spacious and calming interior. At The Out Factory, we’ve taken this ancient concept and added high-performance fabrics, weatherproofing, luxury interiors, and modern comforts to make it suitable for glamping, homes, studios, or weekend retreats.

How is a yurt different from a tent or cabin?

A yurt blends the portability of a tent with the comfort of a cabin. Unlike a regular tent, a yurt has a solid wooden frame, insulation, doors, windows, and even electrical and plumbing options. Unlike a cabin, it’s fast to install, modular, and cost-effective.

What are the origins and traditional uses of yurts?

Yurts originated in Central Asia where Mongolian herdsmen used them as movable homes on the steppe. They needed to be quick to assemble, wind- resistant, and easy to transport. Today, yurts are a global symbol of sustainable, soulful living.

What materials are used to make modern yurts?

Structural-grade Canadian wood (SPF, SYP, Douglas Fir, Yellow Cedar) - High-performance French fabric (Serge Ferrari Soltis 502) - Supreme reflective insulation (8mm) - Stainless steel and galvanized hardware - Clear polycarbonate dome (manual or remote-operated)

What are the advantages and limitations of yurt living?

Advantages: 72-hour installation - Weatherproof (waterproof, windproof up to 280 kmph, can handle 4 feet snow). Can be placed in eco-sensitive or remote zones. Customisable aesthetics and layouts - Portable and relocatable. Qualifies to be a permissible back yard dwelling- is being used as an ADU (Accessory dwelling unit), Backyard room and is viewed as a great option for well designed affordable homes. Limitations: - Needs external contractors for utilities - AC/ heating recommended in extreme climates

Can a yurt be used year-round?

Yes. With built-in insulation and options for heating or cooling, our yurts are built for all-season comfort — from Cherrapunji rain to Pench summer heat.

What does it feel like to live inside a yurt?

Cozy, airy, and magical. The round shape, skylight dome, and wooden interiors make it feel like a sanctuary. It’s warm, natural, and inspiring — whether you’re relaxing, working, or hosting guests.

Are yurts safe in storms or snow?

Yes. Engineered for up to 4 ft snow load and 280 kmph winds.

Can the dome open?

Yes — with a manual spindle or optional remote.

Necessary pre-decision info

Do I need insurance?

We recommend insurance during transit. For long-term, your yurt can be insured like a structure.

Can I store a yurt before building it?

Yes, provided it is kept dry and covered.

How long will it take from order to delivery?

Single yurt: 6–7 weeks - Container shipments: 12–14 weeks.- Installation: 72 hours if the site is ready. Please factor in 45-60 days for international deliveries.

Can I cancel or modify my order after payment?

Once production starts, cancellations are not possible. Please read the terms and conditions carefully, when we send you a quote. Modifications are possible with applicable costs.

What payment options and financing are available?

Currently, we offer upfront payments. Financing options are in development.

Are there hidden costs like customs duties, import taxes, or installation labor?

No hidden costs. For international buyers, we account for customs duty, shipping, local delivery and any other incidental costs. However, there could be price variation due to frequent changes in ocean freight prices. Delivery and installation are billed transparently. In fact, we don’t charge for the shipping costs till the yurt is ready to be shipped. That way, you can take advantage of falling prices too :)

Can I get a full cost breakdown before I order?

Yes. We offer detailed estimates based on your custom choices. We also get you shipping quotes based on your choices of delivery and clearance. More on shipping here

What’s the total cost estimate (yurt, platform, delivery, setup)?

Our yurt pricing page will give you granular answers to all your questions. You might also want to customize your yurt and check out its feasibility here Additional: platform, plumbing, electrical, furnishings, transport, installation.

Do I need building approvals for platforms or plumbing?

Yes. We provide you with technical drawings to simplify this for your local contractor.

Can I put a yurt on agricultural or forest land?

Yes. In fact, yurts are ideal for such spaces where permanent structures may not be allowed.

What permits or permissions will I need?

You may require: - Zoning clearance - Building approval (for platform/foundation) - Environmental permissions (if in ESZs or forests) - Utility and sanitation permissions

Is it legal to live in a yurt full-time?

It varies by location. Many places treat yurts as semi-permanent dwellings. Always consult local zoning and building departments.

Tailoring and purchasing your yurt

What size yurt should I choose?

20 feet/6.1m dia (314 sq.ft/29 sq.m): Ideal for single-room use, office, or guest room - 24 feet/7.3m dia (452 sq.ft/42 sq.m): Popular for resort rooms, weekend homes - 32 feet/9.7m dia (804 sq.ft/75 sq.m: Great for family homes, retreats, ADU’s, cafes, or common areas. You might want to see our Sizes and possibilities page for more ideas

Can I connect multiple yurts together?

Yes! We’ve designed twin and connected yurts with linked decks and shared utilities. We love exploring new ideas, you can expect hyper enthusiasm from us for all your new ideas :)

Can I choose fabric colors?

Yes. You can mix and match from around 30 exterior colors (roof and wall) and choose from four overhang styles and multiple window types. Check our super cute custom yurt builder

Can I add more doors, windows, or skylights?

Absolutely. You can customize fenestrations (door/window placements), upgrade to French balconies, bay windows, and add extra domes. You can download our extensive brochure or customize your yurt on our custom builder here

Can yurts be designed for special needs (e.g., accessibility, pets)?

Yes. We can modify door dimensions, flooring access, and layout plans to suit individual needs.

What’s included in the basic kit?

Yurt wall (9 feet tall boy) and roof - One door and two sliding UPVC windows (four in 32’) - Retractable dome with manual opener/Non retractable dome, Tension cable, insulation, and all hardware

Why should you choose different overhang styles?

Overhangs affect aesthetics, rain protection, and shade. Choose Classic, Clearview, Tropical, Colonial, or Leaf for the look and function you want.

What are optional add-ons or upgrades?

Remote dome opener - Remote blackout blinds - Custom windows and doors - Dome curtain & wooden electrical panels

Can I purchase furnishings or custom interiors with the yurt?

We don’t sell furniture, but we help design custom floor plans. You may work with your own interior designer or hire us for space planning.

How to prepare for your yurt

What kind of platform do I need? (wood, concrete, deck?)

You can choose either: - Wooden deck platform (elevated, aesthetic). PCC platform (durable and strong). Elevated mild steel (MS) Platform. We provide working drawings for all three

Can I use an existing platform or floor?

Yes, as long as it’s circular and matches the yurt’s size. We’ll guide you on exact dimensions.

Do you provide platform plans?

Yes. Detailed technical drawings are provided post-order confirmation.

What are the platform dimensions for each yurt size?

20 feet dia yurt: 6.1m dia - 24 fee dia yurt: 7.3m dia - 32 fee dia yurt: 9.7m dia.

Should I install utilities before or after the yurt?

Before. Plumbing and electrical points must be laid as per plan before yurt installation.

What site conditions should I look for(slope, shade, drainage)?

Flat ground or levelled slope, good drainage, and enough sunlight (for solar setups). Avoid low-lying or marshy land.

How is the yurt packaged for delivery?

For international shipments- Flat-packed in a weatherproof crate, separated into wall, roof, fabric, and hardware modules. For Domestic Shipments- Wrapped and loaded safely into a closed door truck.

What do I need to unload the shipment?

A forklift is ideal. Otherwise, 4–5 strong people can manually unload with guidance.

What if my site is remote or difficult to access?

We’ve delivered to forests, hilltops, and beaches. We'll help coordinate logistics, but inform us early.

Do you help with customs or import paperwork (for international buyers)?

Yes. We provide all documents, declarations, and HS codes for clearance.

What should I prepare in advance if I’m building it myself?

In India, we strongly recommend letting our trained team install. Our international customer can choose DIY, we will share a step-by-step guide and checklist and an easy to use manual for easy installation

Installing your yurt

Can I install it myself or do I need help?

Yes, our easy to use manual and soon to come video series for installation ensures quality, speed, and easy installation.

What tools do I need?

It’s mostly very simple. You need a few drill gun, a mitre saw, various types of measuring tape, a spirit level and good spirits : ) Our installation manual (Included in the shipping ) will give you a detailed list of all the tools required. You need access to electricity, scaffolding and an 18- ft ladder.

How long does installation take?

1 yurt = 72 hours (provided platform and utilities are ready). Rain or power cuts may delay this.

Can you provide on-site installation support?

Yes. Our Outfitters handle everything in India. We can help find qualified yurt installers globally. Local contractor support is needed for minor fixes (if platform or plumbing needs adjustment).

Are there video tutorials or an instruction manual?

Yes. A detailed PDF manual is available. Video series and walk-throughs are coming soon.

Do I need to hire local labor (plumber, electrician)?

Yes, for pre-installation wiring and piping. We provide all drawings.

What mistakes should I avoid during installation?

Inaccurate platform dimensions - Late preparation of utilities - Inadequate power backup and bad weather!

Can I relocate or dismantle the yurt later?

Yes. We offer dismantling and reinstallation services in India. Storage and shipping arrangements can be managed by you or coordinated with us.

Notes on the yurt lifestyle

Can I add a kitchen, bathroom, or loft inside the yurt?

Yes! We’ve done it all — indoor kitchens, outdoor bathrooms, mezzanines. We can help you design a floor plan that suits you. You might want to check out few our Floor plans here

How do I handle plumbing and drainage?

We share plumbing blueprints. You will need a local plumber to execute them pre-installation.

Can I install electricity, solar panels, or AC?

Yes. We provide electrical layouts. Yurts support conventional wiring, solar panels, and split AC units and Heaters.

How do yurts perform in extreme weather (hot, cold, humid)?

With insulation and ventilation, they perform exceptionally well. From 45°C summers in Pench to snowy winters in Shimla.

Are yurts noisy in the rain or wind?

Like any roofed structure, you’ll hear rain. But it’s often soothing. Insulation dampens some noise too.

Is a yurt secure from animals or theft?

Yes. Lockable solid wood doors, secure UPVC windows, and optional security systems.

How do I protect it from pests like mosquitoes or rodents?

Our windows come up with mesh windows, our yurt fabric seals all gaps in the floor, use pest-control traps and a retractable door mesh for additional protection from pests and mosquitoes.

What are the best insulation and ventilation strategies?

Use remote dome opener for airflow - Add windows or French balconies - Ceiling fan or AC for temperature control

Can I live off-grid in a yurt?

Absolutely. Solar panels, dry toilets, and rainwater harvesting make yurts great for off-grid living.

Keeping your yurt in shape

How long does a yurt last?

10+ years easily with basic care. Our fabric comes with a 10-year warranty. Wood lasts decades with proper upkeep.

How do I clean the fabric or structure?

Pressure-wash every 6 months. Dust interiors regularly. Avoid harsh chemicals.

What kind of yearly maintenance is required?

Sand and re-oil exterior wood annually - Check dome opener mechanism - Clear debris from overhangs and roof

What if the yurt gets damaged (tears, mold, leaks)?

Contact us first. We offer patching kits and spare components. Other options -1. You can get the fabric patched by any local awning maker 2. You can buy a hand held heat gun and patch it up yourself. Our patching kit includes 2 meters of fabric along with every yurt.

Can I patch or replace the cover?

Yes. Covers are modular and replaceable.

How do I storm-proof or winterize my yurt?

Secure tension cables - Insulate plumbing - Use heating stoves or HVAC systems.

Is there a warranty?

Yes. 10 years on fabric and wood (natural wear). Damage from neglect or extreme events may not be covered.

Can I insure my yurt?

Yes. Insurers treat it as a semi-permanent structure.

What if I want to store or relocate the yurt?

It can be disassembled in 3 days and reinstalled in 7. Pack it dry and ventilated for storage.

Want to see our yurt? Book a TOF experience center visit. Yurt rafters crafted with precision

What do you want from your yurt?

What do you see yourself doing in your yurt? What are your yurt-aspirations? Wherever in the world you are, we can design your bespoke yurt.
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