Building a Sauna

How to Build Your Own Outdoor Sauna: The Ultimate DIY Guide

Introduction
Imagine having your own private retreat just steps from your back door—a space where stress melts away, muscles unwind, and health flourishes. Building your own outdoor sauna isn't just a rewarding DIY project; it's an investment in your well-being. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from planning to that first steamy session, so you can create your very own wellness sanctuary. 

Coming soon is my full build process! Stay tuned! 

Planning Your Sauna

Choosing the Right Location:

• Position your sauna close to your home for convenience, but far enough for privacy.
• Consider drainage, access to electricity, and the natural surroundings.
• A scenic view can enhance the relaxation experience.

Types of Outdoor Saunas:

• Traditional Wood-Burning Sauna: Offers an authentic experience with high, dry heat and the smell of burning wood.
• Electric Sauna: Easier to control temperature and requires less maintenance.

Size and Design Considerations:

• Think about capacity: solo use, family, or entertaining friends?
• Ensure proper ventilation and insulation for heat efficiency.
• Add features like windows, a porch, or an outdoor shower for enhanced usability.
• Aim for a ceiling height of 2.1 to 2.2 meters to optimize heat distribution.

Materials You’ll Need

• Framing Timber: Use dry 100x50mm timber for walls, and 150x50mm joists for ceilings spanning 3 meters. These are what I used in this example but please look at your local building code. 
• Insulation: Use the highest R value you can afford / fit into your framing. 
• Sauna Wood: Clear, vertical grain Western Red Cedar, Hemlock, or Heat-treated European Alder for benches and cladding—these woods resist heat and moisture.
• Vapor Barrier: Aluminum foil or foil-faced insulation to protect wood from moisture buildup.
• Sauna Heater: Choose from wood-burning or electric .Ensure it meets local electrical codes.
• Ventilation System: Intake vent near the heater and exhaust vent near the ceiling for optimal airflow.
• Accessories: Benches, soft lighting, sauna stones, thermometer, hygrometer, buckets, ladles.

Step-by-Step Building Process

Step 1: Laying the Foundation

• Opt for a solid, level base—concrete slab, deck, or patio stones.
• Ensure proper drainage to prevent water accumulation.

Step 2: Framing the Structure

• Construct plumb and level walls. 
• Include space for windows, doors (preferably insulated glass), and ventilation.

Step 3: Insulating and Installing the Vapor Barrier

• Fit insulation between wall studs and roof beams.
• Apply a vapor barrier on the warm side of the insulation.
• Add an internal cavity system, In this example I used 40x10mm clear pine. 

Step 4: Interior Cladding and Benches

• Install tongue-and-groove (T&G) timber horizontally for rooms under 2.4 meters or vertically for longer spans.
• Build tiered benches using heat-resistant woods, ensuring ergonomic design and easy maintenance.
• Include removable bench skirts for easier cleaning.

Step 5: Installing the Heater

• Position your heater according to manufacturer safety clearances.
• Install sauna stones if using a traditional heater.

Step 6: Ventilation and Finishing Touches

• Ensure proper airflow with strategically placed intake and exhaust vents.
• Add soft LED lighting, a thermometer, hygrometer, and essential sauna accessories.

Sauna Safety and Maintenance Tips

• Regularly inspect for moisture or mold.
• Clean benches and floors weekly, and remove sauna rocks annually for cleaning.
• Follow all safety guidelines for your specific heater, especially regarding ventilation and clearances.

Enjoying Your New Sauna

• Start with shorter sessions (10-15 minutes) and gradually increase.
• Incorporate cooling breaks—like a cold shower, plunge pool.
• Stay hydrated and listen to your body.

Final Thoughts
You've just built your own personal wellness retreat—a space that not only enhances your health but also adds a touch of luxury to your home. Ready to upgrade your sauna experience? Check out our range of premium sauna heaters made in Finland. 

Share your DIY sauna journey in the comments below and inspire others to create their own backyard oasis!