Star Cap/Dome Alternatives

[Yurts_latvia]

Hey all,


It seems like most yurt makers these days either go for a polycarbonate

dome

over the crown, or a transparent PVC Star Cap.


I've been wondering if there might be a simpler and more functional alternative for a lightweight yurt that's intended for camping and open fires, so that the crown can be opened and covered at will according to the weather...



I know Richard from

campingyurts.com

has suggested using an umbrella to cover the crown in wet weather. This seems an elegant solution, just I wonder how securely it could be fastened in a storm - any feedback Richard?


What about just a simple, square PVC flap, sewn onto the roof canvas... it could be quickly pulled over the crown via straps, and fastened via velcro and/or buckles. Not too different to open and closing a smoke flap on a teepee.



Please let me know any thoughts, or experience you might have!


With Thanks,


Charlie

[Bob Rowlands]

Umbrella is ideal for that. If you have an umbrella with a hooked handle just hang something off it like a water bottle or two. If it's a straight handle, drill a hole at the bottom of the handle, install a cord loop, clip on a 'biner and hang a water bottle or two off it.

Richard has been making and selling yurts for a living for a whole lotta years. That trumps everything right there. He's the expert.

[Yurtman]

The umbrella is really the best solution for a

camping yurts

as it packs down so small for transport, way better than a 3ft

dome

which takes up a lot of space.
If you camp in summer you only really cover the ring if the weather is not so nice, or to help keep some heat in at night.
Just make sure you tie the umbrella to a bag or something as it will take off in light winds. Trying to find it in the middle of the night is not fun😀

[Yurts_latvia]

Great, good to have some practical feedback on this! Thanks, both of you!