Outdoor Sauna Guide

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 outdoorFinnish 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.

_Outdoor Sauna Cabins-Infrared_

Outdoor Cabin Sauna kits are alsoavailable 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.

_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!

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