Guide to Choosing an Outdoor Sauna

With the vast number of outdoor saunas now available on the market, it can be a daunting task to choose the sauna that’s right for you. With this guide to Choosing an Outdoor Sauna, we have taken the guess work out of choosing the right sauna by categorizing the different types of outdoor saunas and the benefits and drawbacks to consider. Together we will dive into the different types of backyard saunas to better understand their nuances and help you to choose the best outdoor sauna for sale

Types of Outdoor Saunas:

Outdoor Barrel Saunas

Barrel saunas are notable for their unique, cylinder like design which are crafted from cedar, hemlock or some other type of durable treated wood. Barrel saunas use a ball and socket design to interlock the wood to create the rounded barrel shape which makes it not only a strong and solid design but an aesthetically pleasing and functional one as well.  Barrel saunas efficiently circulate heat by minimizing corners, allowing for an even distributed circulation of warmth. While providing a visually pleasing element in an outdoors setting, barrel saunas are often paired with an electric or wood burning heater for a high heat and efficient sauna experience. Barrel sauna DIY kits typically take about a day to assemble and install correctly.

Outdoor Sauna Cabins-Traditional

Cabin Saunas are a popular design for a traditional outdoor Finnish sauna that uses rocks placed over an electric or wood burning heater to create an intense heat environment. Temperatures in traditional outdoor saunas can reach upwards of 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat, which can be used to create humidity by drizzling water onto hot stones, provides a blend of dry and wet heat, offering both relaxation and potential health benefits. Outdoor traditional sauna cabins typically are sold as outdoor cabin saunas kits. You can view our traditional outdoor sauna kits here https://sunraysaunas.com/traditional/outdoor-traditional

Outdoor Sauna Cabins-Infrared

Outdoor Cabin Sauna kits are also available with infrared heat. Outdoor infrared saunas use heater panels or glass heaters that emit Infrared heat waves. Temperatures in outdoor infrared saunas can reach up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. While the temperatures in Infrared cabins don’t reach that of traditional saunas, they also typically don’t require special electrical wiring for operation. In most cases these saunas will plug into an outdoor outlet making it a convenient option without having to hire an electrician. You will still sweat in an outdoor infrared sauna thus receiving the benefits of detoxification however it won’t be as intense as a traditional sauna. If you would like to learn more about outdoor infrared saunas you can visit here https://sunraysaunas.com/infrared/outdoor-infrared

Outdoor Pod and Cube Saunas

Providing similar efficiency in heat distribution as a barrel sauna, outdoor pod saunas offer similar benefits of a barrel sauna with a flat floor and a protective roof(typically shingled) that covers the whole sauna and provides better protection from harsh weather.

Types of Wood Used in Outdoor Saunas

Manufacturers use a variety of wood types in outdoor saunas including Spruce, Cedar, and Hemlock. Cedar, particularly Western Red Cedar has long been the wood of choice in outdoor traditional saunas. Cedar is well known for its natural resistance to decay and moisture which not only offers durability but also emits a soothing, aromatic scent that creates a relaxing spa-like atmosphere. The warm rich tones of cedar wood also add aesthetic appeal which makes it a favorite for those who want both beauty and function in their sauna.

Outdoor Sauna Heating Options

Wood Fired Sauna Stoves

Wood fired sauna stoves offer an experience unlike many others in an outdoor sauna. You get to experience the real outdoors by listening to sounds of wood crackling and the smell of hardwood smoking while you work up a sweat. It can be very relaxing, but it can also be tedious. Chopping wood and cleaning up ashes from fire after each session is not everybody’s cup of tea but wood fired saunas stoves are worth considering if you want a truly authentic outdoor sauna experience.

Electric Sauna Heaters

If you like things on the easier side, electric sauna heaters like Harvia or Finleo are the way to go. With the push of a button or the turning of a dial you can enjoy a sauna session in about 30 minutes, which is the time it takes to heat up. Electric heaters are super easy to handle and don't need as much upkeep as the wood fired stoves.  Plus, you can set the exact temperature you want and enjoy the best outdoor sauna experience without any of the  cleanup or smoke smell.

Infrared Sauna Heaters

Finally, if you just want to relax in a nice soothing environment where the heat is evenly dispersed and not as intense as a wood burning stove or electric heater then infrared may be a good option for you. Infrared heaters also allow you add complimentary therapy to your sauna session by incorporating chromatherapy(mood lighting), aromatherapy(use of essential oils to create enhance your senses, and even sound therapy through the use of built in speakers. These options typically don’t exist in higher heat environments where the heat could damage the electronics associated with those devices.

Tips for Installing an Outdoor Sauna

Most sauna kits including barrel saunas can be assembly by 2 adults. You should allocate 1-2 days for assembly. Prepare your outdoor space ahead of time. Make sure any electrical work is completed prior to assembly so that it doesn’t interfere with the installation. Make sure the sauna is placed on a level surface. Do not place the outdoor sauna on a sturdy foundation (concrete, solid deck, pavers that have been tamped into position. Do not place the sauna directly on the ground. Also, make sure to always place a vapor barrier between the sauna and the platform it is sitting on to avoid moisture being pulled into the sauna from the ground below. Avoid placing the sauna under trees and look for an area that is private and gets natural sunlight. This will not only help with natural lighting but help reduce moisture buildup around the sauna.

Following these tips will ensure you not only choose the right type of outdoor sauna for your needs but also give you a sanctuary for relaxation and retreat to enjoy for years to come right in the comfort of your own backyard! For more tips and information on backyard saunas please visit us at www.sunraysaunas.com