Buying an outdoor sauna is an excellent idea and one that's sure to help you feel more relaxed from the comfort of your home. There are plenty of health benefits associated with it, and you also end up saving money in the long run as you don't need to go to the spa.

Features that you should be considering when buying an outdoor sauna include determining the size, style, and timber you'd like, in addition to extra features like LED lighting, digital controls, and various aesthetic choices that bring a little pizzazz to it.

In this guide, we take you through everything you need to consider when looking for features in your new outdoor sauna. That way, you will be fully prepared to make the best possible choice so that you can kick back and relax just like the Fins.

Different Styles of Outdoor Saunas

There are a few DIFFERENT styles of outdoor saunas that you can choose from, depending on your NEEDS and preferences.

• Barrel Saunas: These are large, round-shaped saunas usually built with wood panels that curve around the entire inside circumference. They're great for larger groups or families as many people can fit comfortably inside.
• Prefabricated Saunas: These are typically constructed of pre-built walls and roofs, which can be quickly assembled at your home. They generally come with benches and a heater installed already.
• Traditional Saunas: These saunas are usually made from wood and resemble traditional Finnish sauna designs. The walls and roof are usually built separately and then assembled at the site.
• Portable Saunas: These lightweight saunas come with all of the components needed for a quick setup, making them perfect for those who don’t have much outdoor space or who like to travel with their sauna.

Consider the Size of Your Outdoor Sauna

The size of your outdoor sauna will DEPEND on the number of people you plan to fit in it. You also need to consider if you have ENOUGH space for it and whether or not it will fit through doors, if applicable.

Saunas come in a variety of sizes, with STANDARD measurements including 4ft by 4ft, 5ft by 7ft, 6ft by 8ft, and larger. A traditional Finnish sauna can fit up to 8 people inside it, while a BARREL sauna can fit up to 16.

Decide Which Wood Your Want for Your Sauna

There are several different TYPES of wood that you can choose from when deciding on a sauna, and this can have an impact on your relaxation time [1]. Therefore, this is a step that SHOULD be carefully considered.

The Type of Wood

There are a variety of woods that are SUITABLE for an outdoor sauna, each with its own characteristics. GENERALLY speaking, outdoor saunas are constructed using cedar, spruce, hemlock, basswood, or pine.

The type of wood you choose will DEPEND on what your preference is but bear in mind that cedar and spruce are the most common choice for their affordability and EXCELLENT insulation properties. Cedar also has a pleasant AROMA that many people enjoy.

The Construction of the Timber

The type of construction used for the timber is an IMPORTANT factor in both the look and quality of your OUTDOOR sauna.

For example, tongue-and-groove boards are usually used to create FLAT walls that fit seamlessly together, while “cut-to-size” boards are PLACED on top of each other with a gap between them.

Scented or Unscented Wood

You can also choose to have EITHER scented or unscented wood for your outdoor sauna. Scented wood, such as cedarwood and spruce, has a LOVELY aroma that many people enjoy.

Unscented wood will NOT add any additional fragrances but is still an excellent choice for its INSULATION properties.

Sustainability of the Timber

When selecting the wood for your outdoor sauna, it’s important to choose a SUSTAINABLE option. This means selecting wood that has been harvested RESPONSIBLY and in an environmentally-friendly manner.

Pro Tip: Look for certifications from recognized organizations such as FSC or PEFC that guarantee the sustainability of the timber used in your outdoor sauna.

Choose Between a Ceramic or Carbon Infrared Heater

The type of heater you choose will depend on your BUDGER, the size of your sauna and how OFTEN you plan to use it.

• Ceramic Heaters: Ceramic heaters are the most affordable option since they don’t require additional parts or electricity. They emit infrared radiation that quickly warms up the room.
• Carbon Infrared Heaters: Carbon infrared heaters are more expensive but they offer a higher temperature and an even distribution of heat. They also require less electricity than ceramic heaters.

What is the Price Range for Saunas?

The price of outdoor saunas can VARY significantly depending on the size, type of wood and heater used. Prices for a basic 4ft by 4ft sauna can RANGE from £2,000 to £4,500.

For a larger 6ft by 8ft sauna with a carbon infrared heater, you can EXPECT to pay anywhere between £5,000 and £10,000. Prices can also vary DEPENDING on whether or not you choose to have it PROFESSIONALLY installed.

Pro Tip: Infrared saunas tend to be more eco-friendly but are also a lot more expensive. An infrared sauna definitely saves on your energy bills when compared to a traditional sauna.

Which Additional Features are Worth it?

Depending on your budget, you can choose to add ADDITIONAL features such as an audio system, adjustable benches, and side tables. There's actually MORE variety than with indoor saunas.

These additional features can ENHANCE the sauna experience and make it even more enjoyable for you and your guests. However, keep in mind that these EXTRAS will add to the overall cost of your backyard sauna.

The BEST additional features are:

• Chromotherapy or light therapy
• Digital smart touch control systems for easy use
• LED lighting
• Fancy cages for sauna stones
• Sound system with Bluetooth capability
• Automatic timers so you know how long you’ve been in the unit
• Roof vents to allow cool outside air inside the sauna
• Ergonomically-designed benches and integrated seating

Check Your Sauna Has a Warranty

BEFORE you purchase your outdoor sauna, it’s important to check that it has a warranty. This will ensure that you can use the sauna for MANY years without any issues or surprises.

It also ensures that if there are ANY problems with the wood or components of the sauna, they can be FIXED under the warranty.

When you are selecting an outdoor sauna, consider the TYPE of wood, construction, heater (such as infrared heat), and additional FEATURES that you want to include.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check for a warranty and sustainability certifications so that your sauna will last for many years to come.

Important Sauna Safety Standards to Follow

Before buying any backyard saunas, you need to ENSURE that it meets basic safety standards [2]. It doesn't matter if it's going in an indoor or outdoor space - this is ESSENTIAL as it promises the well-being of those who use it.

Use Non-Toxic Materials

It is important to CHOOSE materials that are non-toxic and produced in a sustainable way. These materials should also be EASY to clean and maintain, and even your sauna heater falls under this category.

Opt for Safety Glass

It is important to choose SAFETY glass for your outdoor sauna. This will ensure that the glass does not shatter in case of an accident or UNEXPECTED fall. It will also be more resistant to the RISING temperatures within the sauna.

Get a Timer with an Automatic Shutdown

It is important to have a TIMER with an automatic shutdown feature. This will help you keep track of the time you spend in your sauna and ensure that it does NOT overheat due to extended usage.

Ensure it Has Electrical Certification

BEFORE using the sauna, make sure that it has the appropriate electrical certification. This will ensure that all components are SAFE to use and up to code for a relaxing sauna session.

Check for Low EMF and EML Levels

It is important to choose a sauna that has LOW Electromagnetic Field (EMF) and Electromagnetic Loss (EML) levels. This will ensure that the radiation from your sauna does NOT affect anyone using it in any way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Should I Buy an Outdoor Sauna?

You can buy an outdoor sauna from a wide range of retailers, both online and in-store. It is important to compare the features of different saunas before making a purchase, so make sure you do your research.

Can I Install an Outdoor Sauna Myself?

It is possible to install an outdoor sauna yourself, but it may be a difficult and complex task. If you do not have the necessary tools or experience, it is recommended that you hire a professional to help with the installation.

Is it Easier to Install an Outdoor or Indoor Sauna?

It is generally easier to install an indoor sauna than an outdoor one due to the fact that it does not need to be weatherproofed. However, you should still consider getting professional help in order to ensure a safe and successful installation.

To Conclude

Installing an outdoor sauna properly is essential for OPTIMAL experience and long-term enjoyment. When selecting your outdoor sauna, make sure to CONSIDER the type of wood, construction, heater and ADDITIONAL features that you want to include.

Additionally, CHECK for a warranty and sustainability certifications so that your sauna will last for many years to come. Finally, ENSURE that the sauna meets safety standards, has low EMF and EML levels, and is PROFESSIONALLY installed.

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Sources:

[1] Fromson A. MOST POPULAR SAUNA WOOD TYPES EXPLAINED. My Sauna World. Published February 7, 2018. Accessed February 10, 2023. https://mysaunaworld.com/blogs/my-sauna-world-blog/most-popular-sauna-wood-types-explained

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[2] Sauna fire safety guidelines | The Hanover Insurance Group. Hanover.com. Published 2018. Accessed February 10, 2023. https://www.hanover.com/businesses/business-customer-resources/hanover-risk-solutions/sauna-fire-safety-guidelines