Excavation may be accomplished more quickly if large blocks of interior snow are carved and slid out through a large, temporary "excavation door". Strength increases when all interior wall and ceiling surfaces follow an arched curve, with no flat sections. Once excavation is complete the excavation door can be permanently blocked using previously excavated blocks, and a smaller permanent door can be cut in the most desirable spot. Time and effort are required to hollow out the center of a Quinzhee, though these can be reduced by piling snow around a hollow structure, such as a tarp-covered pile of packs or a makeshift tent or dome.