Jul 19 2008
Nature-friendly Yurts Popular with Green Builders
From the food we eat to the cars we drive, going “green” is a growing trend everywhere you look. And now, it’s becoming a driving force in the home improvement industry as well. If you’re interested in adding a new structure to your property, there is an option that is both earth-friendly and affordable.
An increasing number of environmentally-minded homeowners are deciding that yurts — tent-like structure with circular lattice walls and a cone-shaped roof supported by rafters that meet a center ring — are an affordable choice that has little impact on the environment.
Because of their affordability, durability and stylish design, modern yurts are used across the United States as a home addition, living area on vacation land, an art studio and even as a business establishment.
“The serene, circular space and natural light of a yurt offers a more open connection to the natural world,” says Scott Campbell, president of Rainier Industries, a company in Seattle that makes yurts. “Our yurts are primarily made of wood, Douglas fir to be exact. We strive to purchase our wood from sustainable forests so we utilize this highly renewable resource. We also use a water-based stain on all of the wood and Low-E Insulation which is manufactured using recycled material. Our yurts are designed to be versatile, and can be customized to each individual’s needs.”
Besides being much more affordable than other building options, yurts are designed to have many environmental benefits:
Incredibly Strong Structures
Acclaimed by Architectural Digest as an “architectural wonder,” the yurt is remarkably strong yet lightweight. They are circular, domed canvas and wood structures that feature an integration of tension and compression components, allowing the yurt to withstand heavy wind, rain and snow.
Energy Conservation
A yurt’s circular design encourages air flow to keep you warm in winter, and cool in summer. This means energy conservancy and savings.
Little Impact on Land
Because yurts are low cost, portable, versatile and adaptable to individual needs and tastes, you can use them for a wide variety of purposes. Typically set upon wood platforms supported by simple post-and-beam systems, yurts have a minimal impact on the surrounding soils and, though durable, can be removed without a trace. Some people leave their yurt up for many years, while others keep it up for a couple years and then move it to a different location. Whatever your plan, once a yurt is moved, it leaves only a small footprint on the land, so you don’t have to worry about a long lasting, negative impact on the environment.
Year round, the superior engineering, materials and craftsmanship that go into a Rainier Yurt will keep you safe and secure anywhere you choose to raise it. Whether you want to get closer to nature, or simply prefer the cost and space efficiencies provided by a unique structural alternative, consider a yurt for your next home improvement project.
For more information visit www.RainierYurts.com.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
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