Yurt & Dome Know How

Are Yurts Hot in Summer or Cold in Winter?

Last updated: 26 October 2026

Short answer: a well set up yurt is comfortable year round. Here is what each range comes with and what makes the difference.

By Ryan Smith, Founder, Denmark WAFirst published 6 min read

Inside a yurt with a wood heater, timber double doors and a lattice wall
A wood heater keeps a yurt cosy in winter.

It is the most common worry we hear, and it is fair. A yurt has a fabric skin, not brick walls. But that skin is layered, and how you set up the site matters as much as the yurt itself.

What insulation comes with each range?

Insulation that comes with each range (as at 26 October 2026)
RangeStandard insulationOptions
Typical standard yurtUsually a single felt layerVaries by maker
ORON10mm high-density wool felt between the hemp-cotton liner and the 900 GSM coverSecond felt layer for cold winters, reflective air-cell for hot summers ($750 each)
Geo DomeInsulated canvas lining backed with aluminium air-cell, plus a solar ventilation fanAsk us for cold or hot site advice

For a part-by-part look at the layers, see what is a yurt made of.

Are yurts hot in summer in Australia?

They can be if they sit in full sun with no airflow. Four things keep them cool:

  • Colour. Lighter covers reflect more heat. See our colours guide.
  • Roof insulation. Most heat comes through the roof. Reflective air-cell helps on hot sites.
  • Ventilation. Hot air rises and leaves through the top. Open the door and windows low down to pull cool air through.
  • Shade and site. Afternoon shade from trees makes a big difference.

Are yurts cold in winter?

Not with good insulation and a heater. Three things matter most:

  • The floor. An insulated deck is the most underrated part of a warm yurt.
  • Walls and roof. Add a second felt layer on an ORON for cold sites.
  • Heating. A small wood heater or reverse-cycle unit is plenty. Our heating a yurt guide covers the options.
Inside an empty 8m ORON looking up at the skylight
Warm air rises to the skylight, so airflow matters year round.

How do you stop condensation and mould?

Keep air moving. Crack a window or use the skylight vent, especially when heating or cooking. Do not dry washing inside, and keep the floor area dry underneath the deck.

What does a comfortable setup look like?

Flora Swift chose double insulation for her yurt in Tasmania. Cara McKie added an extra insulation layer to her 8m ORON in Country Victoria. Zoe and James have lived in their 8m yurt in the Northern Rivers for two years.

What mistakes should you avoid?

  • Leaving the floor uninsulated
  • Putting the yurt in full afternoon sun with no shade
  • Closing everything up when heating
  • Picking a dark cover for a hot, exposed site

Frequently asked questions

Are yurts hot in summer?

Not if they are insulated, ventilated and shaded. Lighter covers and reflective air-cell help on hot sites.

Are yurts cold in winter?

Not with good insulation, an insulated floor and a small heater.

What insulation does an ORON have?

10mm high-density wool felt, with a second layer or reflective air-cell as $750 upgrades.

Can a yurt handle a Tasmanian winter?

Yes, with double insulation and a heater. Flora Swift's yurt in Tasmania has double insulation.

Talk it through with us

Tell us what you're planning and where it's going, and we'll help you pick the right size and range. Or grab the Buyer's Guide with $500 off.

Ryan Smith

Founder, Yurt in the Dirt · Denmark, Western Australia

We spent over four years living off-grid as a family in an 8m yurt before starting Yurt in the Dirt. Since then our team has helped 150+ clients build retreats, studios and guest stays across Australia and New Zealand.

Questions? Call our team on +61 489 269 088 or email hello@yurtinthedirt.com.au.