How to Build an Igloo Roof
Built out of blocks of snow in temperatures below freezing, a well-made igloo will provide snug, warm protection from the elements. An igloo 6 foot in diameter will be reasonably comfortable for two to three people. A small candle or lamp will provided heat and light for the interior of the structure. Igloos are well soundproofed. They can be quiet, restful structures to erect. Depending on experience, on average, an igloo can take 3 to 6 hours for two people to construct.
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Instructions
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Construct the walls of the igloo. It seems obvious, but before you can build the dome or roof of the igloo, the walls of the structure have to be constructed. The igloo walls are formed in a circle, and the snow blocks are layered one on top of another sloping upwards. For in-depth instructions on constructing the walls, see Resources. The How to Build You Own Igloo article gives directions for a survival igloo if you are trapped in the snow. The Winter Camping igloo would be a great backyard project to build with your kids.
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Cut a snow block larger than the hole. Once the walls have been formed, there will be a small hole at the top of the igloo. There are two schools of thought for how to put the cap piece in place. Some builders recommend setting the snow cap for the roof in place from inside the igloo. You wedge the snow cap up through the roof hole and set it in place. Others recommend placing the snow cap on top of the igloo from the outside.
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Use the snow spade or your gloved hands to shape the block from inside the igloo, so it fits snugly in place. Pack any openings or cracks tightly with snow.
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Make one or two small ventilation holes in the roof of the igloo
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Tips & Warnings
Because of body heat and carbon dioxide buildup in the confined space of the igloo, even though there is an entrance, you must make ventilation holes in the roof of the structure. It is dangerous not to do so.
