The question everyone is asking is, “can I live in a yurt in a place where snow is heavy, and winters are long? Will the roof hold up?”
Most people think, “Well isn’t a yurt like a tent? Won’t a bunch of snow ultimately collapse the entire yurt?”
This is where our yurt experts come into play! The simple answer is no, a bunch of snow will not collapse your yurt. Yurts are durable, strong structures that are manufactured to handle large amounts of snow without collapsing. Although, it’s important to consider the desired size of your yurt before determining the location. Each yurt has a different snow load based on the engineering for that yurt. The best way to think of it is, that the bigger the yurt, the longer the rafter span, and the less snow load capacity. Opposite of what you would think, right?
If you've browsed our Yurts 101 page, then you know that yurts are among the strongest and most efficient structures ever created. Yurts are built using tension and compression to create a stable structure. The low profile, pitch of the roof, and circular shape keep the yurt strong in high winds. Our customers put our products to the test while raising yurts in some of the roughest climates. We have seen yurt customers build off-the-grid in the snow-covered mountains of Montana, Utah, and Idaho to the intense deserts in Arizona, Texas, and Mexico.
Below, you will find a graph that shows our various snow load capacitates prior to any upgrades.
Yurt Snow Load Support: Maximizing Roof Durability
| Size (ft) | Cable | Rafter Size | 2015 IBC Wind Speed Exposure (MPH) | Max Snow Load (psf) w/ Standard Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16' | 1/4" | 2" X 4" | 115 | Up to 210psf |
| 18' | 1/4" | 2" x 4" | 115 | Up to 145psf |
| 21' | 1/4" | 2" x 4" | 115 | Up to 105psf |
| 21' | 1/4" | 2" x 6" | 115 | Up to 195psf |
| 24' | 1/4" | 2" x 4" | 115 | Up to 70psf |
| 24' | 1/4" | 2" x 6" | 115 | Up to 165psf |
| 27' | 1/4" | 2" x 6" | 115 | Up to 145psf |
| 30' | 5/16" | 2" x 6" | 115 | Up to 105psf |
| 33' | 5/16" | 2" x 6" | 115 | Up to 90psf |
We customize every yurt based on the environment, elevation, wind, and snow load requirements. Each yurt is engineered for a ground snow load calculation. In addition, we include features like our ring-rafter brackets to ensure the strongest, most efficient outdoor living structure. Most of our competitors include a “Wind and Snow Package” that is one size fits all. In comparison, we look at your structural needs based on location and build your yurt to satisfy those needs. We don’t want folks paying for stuff that they don’t need!
If you need stronger snow load support, we would be more than happy to talk with you about engineering the proper snow load for your yurt’s environment. It’s worth checking out our Yurts 101 page for more information about yurt permits, platforms, and raising!
FAQs
How much snow can a yurt roof hold?
Depending on the yurt size, it can support up to 210 psf with standard options.
Does yurt size affect snow load capacity?
Yes, larger yurts have longer rafter spans, reducing snow load capacity.
Can you increase a yurt's snow load capacity?
Yes, you can customize yurts with stronger rafters to handle more snow.
What is the snow load for a 24-foot yurt?
A 24-foot yurt can handle up to 165 psf with upgraded rafters.
How do you prepare a yurt for heavy snow?
Ensure proper engineering for snow loads and clear snow off the roof when necessary.
