Mongolian Yurts and the Innovative Use of House Wrap

What is a Yurt?

A yurt (also called a ger) is a type of circular lattice-walled tent. It can be a permanent or temporary structure for living, working, and playing. Yurts have been the primary dwelling for people of Central Asia, especially Mongolian nomads, for thousands of years.

The Mongolian people created yurts to fit all of their belongings. Their yurts could be assembled or disassembled in a couple of hours and only took a few animals to carry the entire family home. These yurts were wind resistant and easy to heat due to their circular shape. This was an important feature when living in a cold, dry climate with no trees to hold back the wind. Today, more than half of Mongolians live in [yurts], including about 61% in the capital of Ulaanbaatar and 90% of the rural population.

Having a Traditional Mongolian Yurt Outside of Mongolia

Yurt in Swiss Alps - by Groovy Yurts with NovaWrap House Wrap

As yurts have grown in popularity outside of Mongolia, they needed to be adapted and modernized. One company known around the world for their traditional Mongolian yurts is Groovy Yurts, based in Alexandria, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2003, Groovy Yurts creates beautiful handmade structures using unique construction materials that help the yurts naturally breathe.

One of these materials is IPG's NovaWrap™ Aspire™ House Wrap. Although a material not traditionally found in yurts, Aspire house wrap provides moisture-resistance, breathability, and wind protection for the traditional elements of the yurt, such as wool and wood. For thousands of years, the Mongolians fine-tuned their yurts for their climate. Groovy Yurts' innovations allow their yurts to last as long as possible in many different climates around the world.

Yurt in North Dakota, USA - by Groovy Yurts with NovaWrap House Wrap

Yurt in Iceland - by Groovy Yurts with NovaWrap House Wrap

What Are the Components of a Traditional Yurt?

Toono: Also known as the crown, is the central part of the roof. It is a ring where the rafters are attached. The crown was traditionally left open to allow air to circulate and to allow a chimney. The pattern of the toono can be specific to a family and was passed down through generations. (photo courtesy Groovy Yurts)

Lattice Sections: Also known as Khana. Traditionally made of willow, birch, or poplar, but now often made of Douglas Fir or other wood local to the construction. Today, the lattice is often one continuous, collapsible piece. (photo courtesy Groovy Yurts)

Straight wooden rafters (huns): Traditionally held in place by a tension band of cloth or rope. Traditional Mongolian yurts often have horse-hair ropes to hold the rafters in place. (photo courtesy Groovy Yurts)

Columns (bagana): These sometimes support the heavy crown. According to legend, the two center columns are male and female, equal size, facing one another, holding up the toono. (photo courtesy Groovy Yurts)

Covers: Traditionally made of wool from the tribe’s animals, but more recently also made out of cotton or other materials. (photo courtesy Groovy Yurts)

Heavy wood door: Traditionally seen as a status symbol and placed to the South. The door usually has the traditional 'endless knot' design. (photo courtesy Groovy Yurts)

Sacred Symbols Throughout 

(photos courtesy Groovy Yurts)