Building instructions: Build your own igloo

For centuries, the Inuit have used the art of igloo building to protect themselves in the icy polar regions. Even today, this structure made of snow still fascinates many people. In this article, we take you into the world of the igloo builders and show you how you can easily build your own snow house.

What is an igloo - a snow dome with a long tradition

Imagine you're standing in the middle of a snowy winter landscape. The wind is whistling and the temperature is dropping. What could be better than having a warm and safe place to stay? That's exactly what an igloo is: a dome-shaped house made of snow.

But what exactly makes an igloo so special?

• Tradition and survival: Igloos are not just a cool building project, they have a long tradition. The Inuit, the indigenous people of the Arctic, have used them for centuries as protection from the extreme conditions. In emergency situations, igloos can even be life-saving.
• Natural protection: snow is an excellent insulator. A well-built igloo can store body heat and keep out the cold. This creates an amazingly warm and cozy interior.
• The art of building from snow: Building an igloo requires skill and experience. The blocks of snow have to be carefully cut and assembled to create a stable dome.

In short: an igloo is more than just a snow castle. It is a testament to human creativity, a symbol of adaptability and a fascinating connection between man and nature.

What do you need to build an igloo? - The right equipment for your snow adventure

Before you venture out into the white world and build your own igloo, you should make sure you are well equipped. Here's a list of the most important things you'll need for your snow adventure:

The right clothing

• Warm, breathable clothing: Since you'll be sweating while building igloos, it's important that your clothing wicks moisture away to the outside. Good thermal underwear, an insulating mid-layer and a windproof and waterproof outer jacket are essential.
• Warm gloves: Make sure you wear waterproof and windproof gloves with a good grip.
• Warm headgear: A hat or headband protects your head from the cold.

Tip: For a large selection of high-quality outdoor clothing, we recommend you take a look at our range. Discover our range here!

Other important equipment

• Suitable shoes: Waterproof winter boots with a good profile ensure a secure grip on the snow.
• Ski goggles or sunglasses, sun protection: The sun can also be strong in winter. Protect your eyes and skin from UV radiation.
• Shovel: You can use a shovel to push the snow together for the snow blocks.
• Snow saw: A snow saw makes cutting the snow blocks much easier.
• Boxes: You can press the snow into compact blocks in the boxes.
• Time: Allow at least 1.5 hours to build an igloo.
• Firm snow: The snow should be firm enough to form snowballs. Snow that is too powdery is not suitable.

Preparations before building - finding the perfect location

Before you start building your igloo, careful site selection is crucial. The right spot can make the difference between a cozy shelter and an uncomfortable pile of snow.

Finding the ideal building site

• Flat surface: Choose a surface that is as flat as possible. Uneven surfaces make building more difficult and can affect the stability of the igloo.
• Deep, compact snow: The snow should be deep enough so that you have enough material for the snow blocks. At the same time, it should be compact enough to form stable blocks. Avoid areas with separating layers, such as frozen layers of soil, as these can affect the stability of the igloo.
• Wind-protected site: A wind-protected site is an advantage, as wind can make building more difficult and impair the insulation of the igloo.
• Water source nearby: Make sure you have a water source nearby to provide you with water during construction.

Additional tips:

• Mark the building site: To keep an overview, you can mark the building site with a rope or a stick.
• Plan the entrance: Think about where you want to place the entrance in advance. The entrance should be sheltered from the wind and not directly opposite the door of another igloo.

Building instructions 1: Building an igloo from snow blocks - step by step to your own snow fortress

1. Step: Determine the floor plan
   • Draw a circle: Use two sticks and a rope to draw a circle in the snow. This circle determines the layout of your igloo. The diameter depends on the desired size.
   • Depth: Stick the sticks deep enough into the snow so that you have a clear mark.
2. Step: Making snow blocks
   • Fill the box: Fill a box with the snow you collected earlier.
   • Compress: Press the snow firmly together in the box. The firmer the snow, the more stable the blocks will be.
   • Cutting: Use the snow saw to cut the blocks into the desired shape. Make sure that the cut surfaces are as even as possible.
3. Step: Lay the first row
   • Basic row: Lay the first snow blocks along the drawn circle. Make sure that they are close together.
   • Align: Tap the blocks firmly so that they hold well.
4. Step: Raise the walls
   • Sloping blocks: Place the following rows so that the blocks are slightly inclined inwards. This creates the typical dome shape of the igloo.
   • Close the gaps: Fill the gaps between the blocks with snow.
   • Stability: Tap each row firmly to increase stability.
5. Step: Close the roof
   • Taper: The higher you build, the smaller the opening will be.
   • Last blocks: The last blocks are placed so that a small opening is created.
6. Step: Create the entrance
   • Cutting out: Use the snow saw to cut a tunnel-like entrance into the wall.
   • Insulation: To reduce heat loss, you can reinforce the entrance area with additional snow blocks or build a small vestibule.

Building instructions 2: Building a Russian igloo - the quick alternative

The Russian igloo building method offers a quicker and simpler alternative to the classic igloo made of snow blocks. It is particularly suitable for groups or if you don't have a snow saw available.

1. Step: Determine the floor plan
   • Draw a circle: As with the traditional method, you first draw a circle in the snow to define the outline of your igloo.
2. Step: Build the core
   • Stack the rucksacks: In the middle of the circle, stack several rucksacks and blankets on top of each other. These form the core of your igloo.
   • Rescue blanket: Cover the stack with a rescue blanket. This reflects body heat and helps to insulate.
3. Step: Build the pile
   • Add snow: Start shoveling snow onto the pile of backpacks and blankets. Work your way outwards in a spiral until you have reached the desired height.
4. Step: Create the doorway
   • Entrance area: Before you close the pile completely, cut an opening for the entrance. Make sure that the opening is not too large to minimize heat loss.
5. Step: Hollowing out
   • Remove the rucksacks: Once the pile has reached the desired size, carefully remove the rucksacks and blankets from the inside.
   • Smooth the walls: Smooth the inside walls of the igloo with your hands or a suitable tool.
6. Step: Finishing touches
   • Insulation: Use additional snow or insulating material to seal the joints and the entrance area.
   • Ventilation: Make sure there is sufficient ventilation to create a comfortable climate in the igloo.

Advantages of the Russian method:

• Fast: this method is significantly faster than classic igloo construction.
• Simple: It requires fewer tools and technical skills.
• Flexible: The size and shape of the igloo can be easily adapted.

Disadvantages of the Russian method:

• Less stable: a Russian igloo is usually not as stable as a classic igloo.
• Less insulating: The insulation is not as good as an igloo made of snow blocks.

So you are well equipped for your next igloo construction - Off on an adventure with Petromax

To make your igloo experience even more comfortable and unforgettable, we would like to introduce you to some selected Petromax products that are perfect for your next adventure:

For warm drinks on the go

• Petromax vacuum flask: With the Petromax vacuum flask you can keep your hot drinks warm even in the cold. Whether tea, coffee or a hot chocolate - with this flask you can enjoy your favorite drinks directly at the building site or in the finished igloo. Buy your insulated flask here!

For cozy warmth in the igloo

• Petromax rocket stove: With a Petromax rocket stove you can conjure up cozy warmth in your igloo in no time. The rocket stove is compact, efficient and easy to use. It is ideal for heating up small rooms quickly. Buy your rocket stove here!

For coffee enjoyment in the open air

• Petromax Percolator: Nothing warms you up from the inside like a cup of freshly brewed coffee. With the Petromax Percolator, you can prepare your favorite coffee directly at the campfire or in the igloo. Buy your percolator here!

Why Petromax? Petromax stands for high-quality and durable outdoor products that accompany you on your adventures. The products are robust, functional and often made from natural materials.

With the right equipment from Petromax, your igloo building will be an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, Petromax offers you everything you need for your adventure.