Deliberating getting a yurt for part time use in PNW

[Kalen]

Hi there,

I'm deliberating getting a yurt to use relatively occasionally for the purpose of retreats on some relatively remote land over the coming years. I live in coastal BC and it's quite rainy and damp. I am of course concerned about mold developing. The yurt is likely to be left for some weeks at a time unheated by fire. I do have the option of putting an electric heater/humidifier in. I'm wondering if not being there much will mean there's less condensation to deal with, or if it's just a bad idea to get a yurt if it doesn't have regular maintenance.

Any advice would be appreciated

[Bob Rowlands]

Bad idea.

IMO a yurt left unattended for weeks on end in a constantly wet coastal climate is likely to mold really bad.

My wife and I spent one short night in an unattended rustic vacation cabin in Mendocino California. I imagine the climates would be the same as yours. That cabin was totally shot through with mold and totally unlivable.

Living in it full time would make a difference but that isn't what you asked, so there's that.

[Kalen]

Thanks Bob. Do you think that having an electric heater/dehumidifier running and a fire once in a while would be helpful or just not enough?

[TSRalex]

Originally Posted by Kalen

Do you think that having an electric heater/dehumidifier running and a fire once in a while would be helpful or just not enough?

That depends on the size of the yurt (volume) and the power of the devices used.

Of course, it improves the situation, but without real air circulation (“fresh air”), it is still a game of chance...

By the way: Does electricity cost nothing where you live? 🤔🫣😁

[Jafo]

If you have the option of leaving a dehumidifier there that can drain, that might alleviate any mold issues. If you decide to get a yurt, don't do any aftermarket insulating of the interior. Just get the bubblewrap

insulation

most companies offer (except for traditional yurt makers). As long as the air stays dry'ish, you should be okay with a dehumidifier.