How to Build an Igloo

The use of igloos as residence is very famous in places with extremely cold weather conditions. These structures are designed to give people safe, secure and comfortable locations to stay amidst the super cold environment and natural surroundings. For individuals or groups who wish to camp within these areas, it is very important to know the steps on how to build an igloo.

Materials Needed

Despite the extremely cold weather conditions, learning how to build an igloo is not that hard to do. The right materials and tools for the job include shovels, a snow saw and hatchets. In this kind of job, things like large knives or machetes can actually help a lot in the completion of the task.

Steps

The very first thing to do before building the structure is to find a safe, secure and solid foundation for the igloo. Check for hard layers underneath. Making this kind of structure is easier if there are two individuals involved. After selecting the right spot, get the shovels and then use them to dig a pit. Get the saw and then use it to blocks of snow, preferably with similar sizes. Place the blocks on top of the snow to build a firmer and more solid foundation.

Be sure to cut blocks that are easy to carry. Do not cut blocks that are way too big for you to carry. Doing this is irrational. Instead of committing such silly mistake, cut good sizes that are convenient to carry. Right on top of the foundation, create a large imaginary circle where to put the structure. Mark the circle with something that will serve as an outline. This step is very important because it can eventually prevent mistakes when it comes to the laying of the blocks.

Get the hatchet and then use it to shape the blocks. After placing the first row of blocks, put on top of them another row. This process is very similar to laying bricks. At the layers go up, the size of the dome becomes smaller. Position the other individual inside. This person will have to dig and remove some of the snow inside the structure. In addition, this helper will be assigned to trim the interiors of the structure until it acquires a dome-like structure.

Use the remaining opening as an entrance and exit point. From the opening, add a tube-like structure. The main purpose of this extension is to stop the wind and snow from entering the place. It will also serve as the main entry and exit point. Put some snow within the spaces in the structure. The igloo is designed to be an airtight structure in extremely cold locations where people can live, sleep and rest comfortably.

At some point near the top of the structure, dig a small hole that will serve as ventilation. This is important in order for air to circulate inside. Adding windows and small holes can also help in air circulation. The walls inside must be smooth as possible. This will prevent drips of water and melted ice from entering.