How To Build An Igloo: 14 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Home » How To Make An Igloo » How To Build An Igloo: 14 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Build an Igloo PDF download Download Article Co-authored by High Mountain Institute

Last Updated: January 31, 2026 References

PDF download Download Article
  • Plotting out Your Igloo
    • |
  • Making Your Igloo Dome
    • |
  • Finishing Your Igloo
    • |
  • Expert Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
    • |
  • Things You'll Need
|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by High Mountain Institute. The High Mountain Institute is an educational organization dedicated to helping students connect with nature, develop as leaders, and discover education at its best. For over 25 years, HMI has taken students into the wilderness of Colorado and Patagonia and fostered communities of shared responsibility, thereby creating the foundation for rigorous intellectual experiences. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 1,166,421 times.

While the Inuit word "igloo" can represent many kinds of habitations in a snowy environment, this article describes what most people imagine when they picture an igloo: a dome-shaped structure built from blocks of snow (also referred to as a snow house). A properly constructed igloo can have an inner temperature ranging from −7 °C (19 °F) to 16 °C (61 °F), even if the temperature outside dips to −45 °C (−49 °F)![1] Building an igloo is relatively simple, and can be done over the course of a few hours. All you need is the right kind of snow and some know-how, and your igloo will be sure to impress.

Steps

Part 1 Part 1 of 3:

Plotting out Your Igloo

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Build on a slope to save effort. 1 Build on a slope to save effort. Of course, an igloo can be built on flat land without any problems, but by building your igloo into a hillside, the slope will cut down on the surface area of your igloo dome. Less surface area means fewer bricks, and fewer bricks mean less work for you.
    • In survival situations, a hillside building site should be prioritized.
    • Avoid free-standing mounds, as these are likely logs or boulders buried in snow.
    • Use a snow prod or a long stick to verify usable space for your igloo.[2]
  2. Step 2 Use a snow prod to test the snow for consistency. 2 Use a snow prod to test the snow for consistency. Ideally, you'll want to cut the bricks of your igloo from snow that is hard packed with no soft layers of soft snow in it. Use your snow prod or a long stick to check the snow, which should offer firm, uniform resistance if hard packed throughout.[3]
    • Measure the depth of your snow while checking consistency. You'll want the snow to be at least 2 feet (0.61 m) deep to make your igloo.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Outline the outer wall of your igloo. 3 Outline the outer wall of your igloo. Use the heel of your boot to scuff out a line marking the circular outside of your igloo. The snow on the inside of your circle should all be consistently hard packed, and your circle should be regular in shape.
    • A poorly outlined outer wall will result in your igloo's design being less stable and sturdy.
    • Never build a dome with a diameter larger than 10 feet (3.0 m), as it will require you to build a perfect dome. This is a nearly impossible task, even with special tools.[4]
  4. Step 4 Know your general plan for igloo construction. 4 Know your general plan for igloo construction. You'll soon be using snow blocks cut from the snow inside the outer perimeter of your igloo to build the walls of your igloo dome. You'll be building from the inside out, cutting the door of your structure after finishing your dome from the inside.
  5. Step 5 Cut a narrow rectangular trench to prepare to harvest blocks. 5 Cut a narrow rectangular trench to prepare to harvest blocks. Depending on the size of your igloo, the size of your blocks can change, but traditionally igloo blocks are 3 feet (0.91 m) long, 15 inches (38 cm) high, and about 8 inches (20 cm) thick. Cut a narrow rectangular trench with your snow knife to accommodate several blocks this size.
    • Cut your trench in a way that places one of its short ends flat against the outer perimeter line of your igloo.
    • The place your trench and outer wall boundaries meet will eventually become your outside door.
    • If working on a slope or building your igloo into a hillside, dig your trench directly toward the slope.
    • A handsaw or machete can be used in place of a snow knife.[5] [6]
    6. Advertisement
Part 2 Part 2 of 3:

Making Your Igloo Dome

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Harvest your blocks and begin assembling your first row. 1 Harvest your blocks and begin assembling your first row. Section the hard packed snow inside the perimeter of your rectangular trench into equal rectangular blocks. Stubborn blocks can be broken free by sticking your snow tool into the cut around the block and gently wiggling it back and forth until the block is broken free. Then arrange your blocks around the perimeter of your igloo to create the first layer of your dome.
    • Your blocks should be 3 feet (0.91 m) long, 15 inches (38 cm) high, and about 8 inches (20 cm) thick, and should taper slightly as you build upward.
    • Run your snow knife, machete, or handsaw along the edges of your first row of blocks where one block joins the next. This will smooth contours and help fit each block together tightly.
    • When your rectangular trench no longer has snow for blocks, cut another trench the same dimensions as the first. All the snow used in building your dome should come from within the perimeter of the igloo.[7]
  2. Step 2 Cut a slope into your first row of snow blocks. 2 Cut a slope into your first row of snow blocks. Due to the rectangular shape of your blocks, you will need to cut a gentle slope inclining from the ground all the way to the top height of your first row of snow blocks. This incline should extend part way around your igloo (perhaps even as much as halfway), and should be cut with your snow knife, machete, or handsaw.
    • This incline will allow your blocks to be stacked in a vertical spiral, creating a snug fit.[8]
  3. Step 3 Level and shape igloo walls when necessary. 3 Level and shape igloo walls when necessary. This will make stacking and layering the ice blocks much easier. Additionally, as you build your dome upward, you will need to shape your snow blocks to fit the reduced space at the top of your dome. Use your snow knife, machete, or handsaw to do this as necessary.
    • Each row of your igloo dome should slope gradually inward. Use your snow knife, machete, or saw to create a very gentle inward slope for each row of snow blocks.
    • Using your hand, plug any gaps you find in your dome from the inside with snow. Simply pat snow into the gap until it is filled.[9] [10]
  4. Step 4 Add blocks cut from the snow inside the igloo perimeter. 4 Add blocks cut from the snow inside the igloo perimeter. Continue to liberate blocks from the snow within your igloo perimeter with your snow knife/machete, and then stack your next layer starting from the sloping end of your first row. As your dome wall rises, blocks will begin to decrease in size and slope inward.
    • To increase stability and prevent ceiling blocks from falling, bevel the edges where ceiling blocks meet the row beneath.
    • To bevel, cut the inside corner of your ceiling block so that it forms a flat base with its neighboring block beneath.[11]
  5. Step 5 Fit your cap-hole blocks carefully. 5 Fit your cap-hole blocks carefully. The topmost blocks in your igloo dome are notoriously tricky to fit into place, so take your time and work carefully during this leg of your igloo building. Use your snow knife/machete to sculpt these pieces to fit tightly together.
    • Since your final hole will be exceptionally small, you will have to turn your final block on its end and feed it through the hole on its side.
    • When your final cap-hole piece is balanced on the outer top part of the dome, cut it down to fit in place snugly with your snow knife/machete.
    6. Advertisement
Part 3 Part 3 of 3:

Finishing Your Igloo

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Carve vents in your igloo to prevent CO2 poisoning. 1 Carve vents in your igloo to prevent CO2 poisoning. Your body heat will cause the snow of your dome to melt and then freeze again, creating a barrier between the inside and outside of your igloo. Without ventilation this seal will prevent the CO2 that you exhale from escaping, and could seriously harm you.[12]
    • Cut small, crescent shaped vents into the top or sides of your igloo to prevent the buildup of CO2.
  2. Step 2 Cut your entrance. 2 Cut your entrance. Now that you have the dome of your igloo created and some vents carved into place, you're ready to make an entrance. Use your snow knife/machete to cut a rectangle from the bottom of your block deep igloo base to about eye-level high, while crouching, in your dome wall. Your cut should be as deep as your dome wall is thick.[13]
    • Try to preserve this block by pulling it inside the igloo. You can save this block to create an overhang for your entrance.
  3. Step 3 Clear your entrance way. 3 Clear your entrance way. Remove the remaining snow from your entrance in an gentle upward slope. You can pull this snow inside your igloo and use it for further patching gaps from the inside, or you can simply push it outside. Once your sloped entrance is finished, take the rectangular block you cut free of your dome wall and turn it on its side to remove it from your igloo. Then:
    • Cut the rectangular dome-wall block in half.
    • Lean each half of your block inward over your entrance trench so that each one holds the other up in an upside down V shape.
    • This upside V overhang for your entrance should be as close to the mouth of the entrance as possible, to provide the most protection.
  4. Step 4 Strengthen your exterior with snow and enjoy your igloo. 4 Strengthen your exterior with snow and enjoy your igloo. Your igloo can be made even more durable to patching thin spots and gaps with more snow. Some gaps may be most easily patched from the inside, while you might have better access to others from outside. In either case, use your hand to press the snow into the gap and then smooth the area to pack it together.[14]
    • You should be able to assess the stability of your igloo by touch. If the blocks feel solid and sturdy, your igloo should withstand the elements.
    • Even if your igloo is a little on the rickety side, in the event of a cave-in, you'll be able to dig yourself free from the snow easily.
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question How do you build an igloo if the snow is powdery? High Mountain Institute High Mountain Institute Outdoor Education Non-Profit The High Mountain Institute is an educational organization dedicated to helping students connect with nature, develop as leaders, and discover education at its best. For over 25 years, HMI has taken students into the wilderness of Colorado and Patagonia and fostered communities of shared responsibility, thereby creating the foundation for rigorous intellectual experiences. High Mountain Institute High Mountain Institute Outdoor Education Non-Profit Expert Answer If you're dealing with powdery snow, you'll want to create firm snow by 'boot packing,' or smashing through layers of snow to compress it. This takes lots of running, jumping, or dancing in place until you are sure you have compacted several feet of snow. Then put on skis and ski back and forth over the area until it is flat and smooth. In an ideal world, you should wait up to 24 hours before starting to construct or cut bricks. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 20
  • Question What do I do if the snow is powdery? Community Answer Community Answer It will take much longer, but you can mix the snow with water and press it into buckets or other large containers. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 33 Helpful 144
  • Question Why are moon-shaped carvings the best at preventing CO2 buildup? Community Answer Community Answer The moon shape carvings are big enough to allow CO2 to exit the igloo, and the carvings won't weaken the structure of the bricks as much as a circle or square would. Also, the moon carvings won't allow as much cold air to enter the igloo so the inside is kept warm. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 31 Helpful 128
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Reader Videos

Tips

  • If your area does not have suitable snow, you can make use of store-bought snow block molds. These can be purchased from some winter sports stores or general online retailers.[15] Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Make your own block molds by making a rectangular frame from four boards. Rectangular containers, like wastebaskets, will also work.[16] Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
  • Get a partner if possible. Two experienced igloo builders can make an igloo in under two hours. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
Show More Tips

Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
  • If possible, compact the snow from the inside and the outside by pressing both sides in.
  • Build it in a high area so when things start melting your igloo stays longer.
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Small cooking stoves can be used in your igloo as long as it is large and well-ventilated. You should use the stove sparingly, and not for warmth. Position the stove where the fumes can freely flow out of the igloo, such as beneath an air vent. Thanks Helpful 22 Not Helpful 6
  • Building an igloo is not the most convenient way to create shelter in a survival situation. See How to Build a Snow Cave for a more emergency-appropriate solution. Thanks Helpful 21 Not Helpful 7
Advertisement

Things You'll Need

  • Cold weather clothing (boots, gloves, hat, jacket, etc.)
  • Hand shovel (optional)
  • Ice axe/pick (optional)
  • Lots of snow – at least 2 feet (0.61 m) of well packed snow.
  • Shovel
  • Snow block mold (optional)
  • Snow knife, machete, or handsaw
  • Snow probe or long stick

You Might Also Like

Make a Model IglooHow toMake a Model Igloo Build a Snow CaveHow to Create a Shelter in the Snow Build a Survival ShelterHow toBuild a Survival Shelter Build a Snow FortHow toBuild a Snow Fort Make a SnowmanHow to Make the Perfect Snowman Draw an IglooHow toDraw an Igloo Make an Ice BlockHow toMake an Ice Block Build a Fallout ShelterHow toBuild a Fallout Shelter Install a Snow FenceHow toInstall a Snow Fence Build an Underground FortHow toBuild an Underground Fort Build a Natural Shelter in the JungleHow toBuild a Natural Shelter in the Jungle Make an OuthouseHow toMake an Outhouse Make an Insulated Cat HouseHow to Build a DIY Insulated Cat House: A Step-by-Step Guide Make a TeepeeHow toMake a Teepee Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://ecommons.cornell.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/83008866-4212-426a-a23c-4c55f4d7125c/content Cornell.edu on igloos
  2. ↑ http://www.primitiveways.com/igloo.html
  3. ↑ http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/design/a7555/how-to-build-an-igloo/
  4. ↑ http://boyslife.org/hobbies-projects/projects/6793/how-to-build-an-igloo/
  5. ↑ http://www.primitiveways.com/igloo.html
  6. ↑ https://www.treehugger.com/how-build-igloo-4852625
  7. ↑ https://www.treehugger.com/how-build-igloo-4852625
  8. ↑ http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/design/a7555/how-to-build-an-igloo/
  9. ↑ http://www.primitiveways.com/igloo.html
More References (8)
  1. ↑ https://www.treehugger.com/how-build-igloo-4852625
  2. ↑ http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/design/a7555/how-to-build-an-igloo/
  3. ↑ http://principia-scientific.org/at-what-concentration-does-co2-becomes-toxic-to-humans/
  4. ↑ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-543289/How-build-igloo-stuck-snow.html
  5. ↑ https://www.treehugger.com/how-build-igloo-4852625
  6. ↑ https://www.treehugger.com/how-build-igloo-4852625
  7. ↑ http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-543289/How-build-igloo-stuck-snow.html
  8. Videos provided by overthehill outdoors

About This Article

High Mountain Institute Co-authored by: High Mountain Institute Outdoor Education Non-Profit This article was co-authored by High Mountain Institute. The High Mountain Institute is an educational organization dedicated to helping students connect with nature, develop as leaders, and discover education at its best. For over 25 years, HMI has taken students into the wilderness of Colorado and Patagonia and fostered communities of shared responsibility, thereby creating the foundation for rigorous intellectual experiences. This article has been viewed 1,166,421 times. 121 votes - 72% Co-authors: 117 Updated: January 31, 2026 Views: 1,166,421 Categories: Featured Articles | Winter Outdoor Activities Article SummaryX

To build an igloo, find a spot that's covered with hard packed snow that's at least 2 feet deep. Then, draw the circular outline of your igloo in the snow and start cutting out blocks of snow from inside the circle. Once you've cut out all the blocks, stack them around the perimeter of your circle, gradually sloping the blocks more and more each time you move up a layer. Once you've built your igloo, cut out an entrance way and fill in any cracks or holes with more snow. For help fitting your igloo cap holes to close your igloo, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Spanish Italian Russian French Dutch Japanese
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,166,421 times.

Reader Success Stories

  • Katherine Maundrell

    Katherine Maundrell

    Sep 13, 2017

    "In school we are doing personal inquiries and mine is on how to build an igloo. Was able to answer my question..." more Rated this article:
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. High Mountain Institute Co-authored by: High Mountain Institute Outdoor Education Non-Profit 121 votes - 72% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 117 Updated: January 31, 2026 Views: 1,166,421 Katherine Maundrell

Katherine Maundrell

Sep 13, 2017

"In school we are doing personal inquiries and mine is on how to build an igloo. Was able to answer my question..." more Rated this article: Lauren Ver meer

Lauren Ver meer

Jan 22, 2018

"I was trying to build an igloo for my young neighbors and I had no clue. This really helped especially the..." more Rated this article: Kylah Anderson

Kylah Anderson

Dec 2, 2016

"It really helped me. I needed the steps on how to build an igloo for a project. Thank you!" John

John

Oct 15, 2018

"It was cool (no pun intended). It seems like a challenge to build, but it seems worth it. " Rated this article: Bamaxes Mendoza

Bamaxes Mendoza

Feb 14, 2017

"It really helped to show the videos for this subject and easy-to-follow directions." Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

How Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizTake QuizMinecraft Trivia QuizMinecraft Trivia QuizTake QuizDeserted Island Simulator: Test Your Survival SkillsDeserted Island Simulator: Test Your Survival SkillsPlayWhat Kind of Minecraft Player Am I QuizWhat Kind of Minecraft Player Am I QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Make a Model IglooHow toMake a Model IglooBuild a Snow CaveHow to Create a Shelter in the SnowBuild a Survival ShelterHow toBuild a Survival ShelterBuild a Snow FortHow toBuild a Snow Fort

Trending Articles

Am I Good at Flirting QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizHow Many Secret Admirers Do I Have QuizHow Many Secret Admirers Do I Have QuizRank My Attractiveness QuizRank My Attractiveness Quiz5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your Shape5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your ShapeWhat Would My Nickname Be QuizWhat Would My Nickname Be Quiz

Watch Articles

Impress a Girl on a First DateHow toImpress a Girl on a First DateWhat Are Tear Burns on TikTok and What Causes Them?What Are Tear Burns on TikTok and What Causes Them?Wear a HoodieHow toWear a HoodieChiffonadeHow toChiffonadeMake a Fabric RoseHow toMake a Fabric RoseConfront a BullyHow toConfront a Bully

Trending Articles

What Is My Intelligence Type QuizWhat Is My Intelligence Type Quiz210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-Blowing210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-BlowingTell That Your Crush Likes You BackHow toTell That Your Crush Likes You BackDepression Test for TeensDepression Test for TeensSCP Fight Simulator: Who Will Win?SCP Fight Simulator: Who Will Win?Am I Autistic QuizAm I Autistic Quiz

Quizzes & Games

Which Camp Half-Blood Cabin Would I Live In QuizWhich Camp Half-Blood Cabin Would I Live In QuizTake QuizIQ Test For KidsIQ Test For KidsTake QuizWhich Ilvermorny House Do I Belong In QuizWhich Ilvermorny House Do I Belong In QuizTake QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizDo I Have Common Sense QuizTake QuizPictionary Word GeneratorPictionary Word GeneratorGenerateGeneral Knowledge QuizGeneral Knowledge QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Sports and Fitness
  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Winter Outdoor Activities
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --542

Tag » How To Make An Igloo