Constructing a fortified refuge in Permafrost is not just about keeping predators out — it is an active life-support system designed to insulate your character from fatal sub-zero weather.
However, several unintuitive building mechanics can cause your indoor shelter to leak warmth if placed incorrectly. Here is what you need to know.
1. The Crucial “Arrow Alignment” Mechanic
When placing foundations and walls, you will notice green directional arrows illuminated along the ghost preview mesh:
- Rule: Structural arrows MUST always point OUTWARD away from your interior room.
- Why this matters:
- The outer face of a wall has heavy thermal weatherproofing textures; placing it backward prevents the game engine from recognizing the room as “Insulated”.
- Door snap points will fail to align, preventing doors from swinging shut properly.
- External raiders can dismantle inwardly-faced walls much faster using melee weapons.
2. The 100% Thermal Enclosure Condition
To benefit from the “Indoors” buff (+15°C ambient protection and zero wind chill), your shelter must satisfy the strict Thermal Enclosure Check:
- Continuous Foundation: Timber or stone foundation perimeter.
- Four Solid Sides: Continuous walls with closed doorway frames and an installed door.
- Complete Roof Sealing: Every square meter of foundation must have a matching flat ceiling or pitched roof tile directly above it.
Warning: If even a single roof corner tile is missing, the game treats the entire structure as “Exposed to Elements,” completely nullifying your indoor warmth bonus!
3. Heating Your Base Efficiently
Once enclosed, place heat sources strategically:
| Heat Source | Fuel Consumed | Thermal Coverage Radius | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Campfire | Wood / Sticks | 2.5 meters (direct proximity) | Temporary day 1 shelter |
| Stone Hearth / Smelter | Coal / Wood | 6 meters (covers small 3x3 cabin) | Mid-game permanent base |
| Makeshift Heater | Fuel Cans / Electricity | 15 meters (whole compound) | End-game multi-room stronghold |
4. Defending Against Raids
- Elevated Foundations: Build your base on slightly raised foundations with a single staircase entrance. Wolves cannot scale vertical foundation skirts.
- Double Air-lock Doors: Construct a 1x1 vestibule at your front entrance. This prevents sudden heat loss when opening the door during a blizzard and stops bandits from rushing straight into your bed quarters.