Is It Safe To Build Your Own Sauna?

DIY saunas have gained popularity recently, and you may be curious to know if it’s possible to build one at home. Over fifty percent of the population in Scandinavian countries like Finland has their very own sauna.

Not so much elsewhere, but it’s still a convenience that lots of people would love to have.

We understand that the thought of installing a sauna in a typical house or apartment may seem extravagant and costly, but we’re here to convince you otherwise. Furthermore, can your well-being and sanity be valued at a price?

Traditional wood-burning sauna sessions, lasting just 10 to 15 minutes, have been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular and psychological health.

Instead of boring you with numbers, we’ll show you how to construct a sauna from scratch so you can experience the health benefits for yourself.

What Is A Sauna?

A sauna is a small, specially constructed room or house where people can go to relax and improve their health through the use of dry or wet heat. Sauna temperatures typically range from 150 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (65 to 93 degrees Celsius), and they can be heated with wood, electricity, or gas.

They were first made in Finland, but have since gained popularity elsewhere. Sauna use is associated with positive health outcomes like enhanced cardiovascular performance, decreased stress, and alleviated aches and pains in the muscles.

Is It Safe To Build Your Sauna?

It is possible to build your sauna, but it is important to follow proper safety guidelines to ensure that the sauna is built correctly and safely. Building a sauna involves working with electricity, wood, and heat, which can be dangerous if not done properly.

Before building a sauna, it is important to do research and gather information on the proper construction techniques, materials, and safety precautions.

You should also consult with a professional, such as an electrician or contractor, to make sure that the sauna is designed and built by local building codes and regulations.

When building a sauna, it is important to use proper insulation and ventilation to prevent overheating and to make sure that the sauna’s heating elements are installed correctly and safely.

It’s also important to use heat-resistant materials and to make sure that the sauna is properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards.

Once the sauna is built, it’s important to properly maintain it, ensuring that the sauna is clean, dry, and free of any hazards that could cause injury.

Also, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the sauna’s heating elements and to use a sauna thermometer to ensure that the sauna’s temperature does not exceed the safe limit.

In summary, building a sauna is not a simple DIY project, you should consult a professional and make sure to follow the proper safety guidelines.

How to Build Your Sauna At Home?

Building your sauna at home can be a challenging and time-consuming project, but with proper planning, research, and attention to safety, it is possible to build a functional and enjoyable sauna. Here are some general steps to follow when building a sauna at home:

1. Plan The Layout And Design Of The Sauna.

When planning the layout and design of a home sauna, there are a few key things to consider:

Size and location: The size of the sauna will depend on the number of people who will be using it and the available space in your home. The location of the sauna should be easily accessible and have enough space for ventilation.
Type of sauna: There are several types of saunas, including traditional Finnish saunas, infrared saunas, and steam saunas. Each type has its unique features, benefits, and requirements.
Heating element: Decide on the type of heating element you will use for your sauna. Electric heating elements are the most common and easiest to install, but wood-burning and gas-burning elements are also options.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for a safe and comfortable sauna experience. Make sure to include enough vents and an exhaust fan to keep the air fresh and prevent overheating.
Lighting and controls: Consider what type of lighting and controls you want to include in your sauna. For example, you can have a dimmer switch to adjust the light, or a thermostat to control the temperature.
Bench and seating: Plan for the number and layout of benches and seating in the sauna.
Finishing materials: Choose finishing materials that are heat-resistant, durable, and easy to clean.
Safety features: Make sure to include safety features such as a sauna thermometer, timer, and emergency stop button.

It’s important to make sure that the sauna design complies with local building codes and regulations and to consult with a professional if you have any doubts.

2. Obtain The Necessary Permits And Approvals From Local Building And Zoning Authorities.

Obtaining the necessary permits and approvals from local building and zoning authorities is an important step in building a sauna at home.

Building codes and regulations vary by location, so it’s essential to check with the local authorities to determine the specific requirements for your area.

Here are some general steps to follow when obtaining permits and approvals for a home sauna:

Consult with local building and zoning authorities: Contact your local building department to find out what permits and approvals are required for your sauna project.
Submit plans and specifications: Provide detailed plans and specifications for your sauna, including its size, location, heating element, and ventilation system.
Obtain building permits: Once your plans and specifications have been approved, obtain the necessary building permits. These may include permits for electrical, plumbing, and structural work.
Schedule inspections: Schedule inspections with the local building department at specific stages of the construction process. These inspections will ensure that the sauna is being built according to the approved plans and local building codes.
Comply with regulations: Make sure to comply with all regulations and codes, including those related to safety, energy efficiency, and environmental impact.

It’s important to note that obtaining permits and approvals can take time, and the process may be delayed if there are any issues with the plans or if the sauna does not comply with local regulations.

So it’s best to start the process as soon as possible. Additionally, it’s important to consult with a professional if you have any doubts.

3. Prepare The Site By Levelling The Ground And Installing A Foundation For The Sauna.

Preparing the site for a home sauna involves levelling the ground and installing a foundation.

Here are some general steps to follow when preparing the site:

Level the ground: Clear the area where the sauna will be built and level the ground to ensure that the foundation is stable.
Install a foundation: The type of foundation you will need will depend on the location and the type of sauna you are building. For example, if you are building a sauna in a damp area, you will need to install a moisture barrier and a foundation that is elevated off the ground. A concrete slab or a crawl space foundation can be used for most saunas, but it’s important to consider the local building codes and the type of soil your house is built on.
Install a moisture barrier: If the sauna will be built on a concrete slab, it’s important to install a moisture barrier to prevent water from seeping into the slab and causing damage.
Install drainage: Make sure to install adequate drainage around the sauna to prevent water from pooling around the foundation.
Install a vapour barrier: If you will be building a traditional Finnish sauna, It’s important to install a vapour barrier between the framing and the insulation to prevent moisture from penetrating the wall.
Plan for utilities: Consider the location of the electrical, water, and ventilation connections and make sure they are easily accessible and in compliance with local codes.

It’s important to make sure that the site is prepared correctly and to consult with a professional if you have any doubts. Building a proper foundation is crucial for the sauna’s stability and longevity and to prevent moisture issues.

4. Build The Walls And Roof Of The Sauna Using Heat-Resistant Materials.

Building the walls and roof of a home sauna using heat-resistant materials is an important step in ensuring the safety and durability of the sauna. Here are some general steps to follow when building the walls and roof of a sauna:

Choose heat-resistant materials: Popular materials for sauna walls and roofs include cedar, redwood, and spruce. These materials are durable, heat-resistant, and have a pleasant aroma that enhances the sauna experience.
Install framing: Install the framing for the walls and roof of the sauna using dimensional lumber. Make sure that the framing is level and square, and that the corners are properly reinforced.
Install insulation: Insulate the walls and roof of the sauna to help retain heat and prevent overheating. Fibreglass or mineral wool insulation are good options.
Install vapour barrier: If you will be building a traditional Finnish sauna, it’s important to install a vapour barrier between the framing and the insulation to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls.
Install the exterior siding: Cover the walls and roof of the sauna with the chosen material. Make sure that the siding is properly sealed and caulked to prevent water infiltration.
Install the roofing: Install the roofing material, such as shingles, metal or rubber roofing, making sure that the roof is properly ventilated and the flashing is properly installed.

It’s important to use heat-resistant materials and to make sure that the walls and roof are properly insulated and ventilated to prevent overheating.

Additionally, it’s important to consult with a professional if you have any doubts and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the materials you are using.

5. Install The Heating Element And Ventilation System.

Installing the heating element and ventilation system is an important step in building a home sauna. Here are some general steps to follow when installing the heating element and ventilation system:

Choose a heating element: Electric heating elements are the most common and easiest to install, but wood-burning and gas-burning elements are also options. Each type of heating element has its unique features, benefits, and requirements.
Install the heating element: Install the heating element according to the manufacturer’s instructions and in compliance with local codes and regulations. Make sure that the heating element is properly grounded and that all electrical connections are secure.
Install a sauna thermometer: Install a sauna thermometer to monitor the temperature inside the sauna.
Install a timer: Install a timer to control the heating element and to ensure that the sauna is not left on for too long.
Install ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for a safe and comfortable sauna experience. Make sure to include enough vents and an exhaust fan to keep the air fresh and prevent overheating.
Install a moisture extractor: if you are building a traditional Finnish sauna, it’s important to install a moisture extractor to remove the humidity from the air.
Install a door sweep: Install a door sweep on the sauna door to prevent drafts and to keep the heat inside the sauna.

It’s important to make sure that the heating element and ventilation system are installed correctly and safely and to consult with a professional if you have any doubts. Additionally, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the heating element and any other components.

6. Install The Sauna’s Electrical System, Including Lights And Controls.

Installing the sauna’s electrical system, including lights and controls, is an important step in building a home sauna. Here are some general steps to follow when installing the electrical system:

Consult with an electrician: Consult with a licensed electrician to ensure that the sauna’s electrical system is installed in compliance with local codes and regulations.
Install electrical wiring: Install electrical wiring for the sauna’s lights and controls, making sure that all connections are secure and grounded.
Install electrical receptacles: Install electrical receptacles for powering the sauna’s heating element and any other electrical devices that will be used in the sauna.
Install lighting: Install lighting fixtures in the sauna, making sure that they are properly grounded and that the wiring is properly protected.
Install controls: Install controls for the sauna’s heating element, such as a thermostat or dimmer switch. Make sure that the controls are easily accessible and that they comply with local codes.
Install an emergency stop button: Install an emergency stop button in a visible and easily accessible location, so that the sauna’s heating element can be quickly turned off in case of an emergency.

7. Install The Sauna’s Benches And Finishing Materials.

Installing the sauna’s benches and finishing materials is an important step in building a home sauna. Here are some general steps to follow when installing the benches and finishing materials:

Plan for the number and layout of benches: Decide on the number and layout of benches in the sauna, taking into account the size of the sauna and the number of people who will be using it.
Choose materials for the benches: Popular materials for sauna benches include cedar, redwood, and spruce. These materials are durable, heat-resistant, and have a pleasant aroma that enhances the sauna experience.
Install the benches: Install the benches according to the plans and in compliance with local codes and regulations. Make sure that the benches are securely attached and that they are level.
Install flooring: Choose a flooring material that is heat-resistant, durable, and easy to clean, such as tile, stone, or ceramic. Make sure that the flooring is properly sealed and that it is slip-resistant.
Install the door: Choose a door that is heat-resistant, durable, and easy to operate. Make sure that the door is properly sealed and that it has a good weatherstrip to prevent drafts.
Install finishing materials: Choose finishing materials such as trim, moulding, or wainscoting that match the style of the sauna and the home.

It’s important to use heat-resistant materials to make sure that the benches and finishing materials are properly installed and finished and to consult with a professional if you have any doubts.

Additionally, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the materials you are using.

8. Test The Sauna’s Heating And Electrical Systems To Make Sure They Are Working Properly.

Testing the sauna’s heating and electrical systems is an important step in building a home sauna to make sure everything is working properly. Here are some general steps to follow when testing the sauna’s heating and electrical systems:

Test the heating element: Turn on the sauna’s heating element and use a thermometer to check the temperature inside the sauna. Make sure that the temperature does not exceed the safe limit and that the heating element is working properly.
Test the ventilation system: Turn on the sauna’s ventilation system and make sure that it is working properly and that it is providing adequate ventilation.
Test the lighting and controls: Turn on the sauna’s lights and test the controls such as the thermostat or dimmer switch, making sure that they are working properly.
Test the emergency stop button: Test the emergency stop button to make sure that it will turn off the heating element quickly and safely in case of an emergency.
Test the electrical system: Test the sauna’s electrical system to make sure that it is properly grounded and that all connections are secure.

It’s important to test the sauna’s heating and electrical systems thoroughly and make sure that everything is working properly before using the sauna.

9. Enjoy Your New Sauna!

Congratulations, you have successfully built your sauna! Now it’s time to enjoy the benefits of your hard work. Here are some tips on how to enjoy your new sauna:

Start slow: When using the sauna for the first time, it’s best to start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as your body gets used to the heat.
Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated when using the sauna, so be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna sessions.
Use a sauna thermometer: Use a sauna thermometer to monitor the temperature inside the sauna and make sure that it does not exceed the safe limit.
Follow sauna etiquette: Follow sauna etiquette and respect the privacy and comfort of others who may be using the sauna.
Keep it clean: Regularly clean the sauna to keep it in good condition and ensure a pleasant sauna experience.
Use sauna accessories: Consider using sauna accessories such as a sauna bucket, ladle, and sauna stones to enhance your sauna experience.
listen to music or read a book: Saunas are a great place to relax and unwind, so consider bringing a book or listening to music while you enjoy your sauna sessions.

Keep in mind that building a sauna requires a significant investment of time and money, and it’s important to follow proper safety guidelines and consult with a professional if you have any doubts.

Saunas require regular upkeep and attention, as well as observance of the manufacturer’s guidelines for the sauna’s heating element and other parts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, building a sauna at home can be a challenging and time-consuming project, but with proper planning, research, and attention to safety, it is possible to build a functional and enjoyable sauna.

The process includes: planning the layout and design, obtaining necessary permits and approvals, preparing the site, building the walls and roof, installing the heating element and ventilation system, installing the electrical system, installing benches and finishing materials, and testing everything to make sure it’s working properly.

Remember to enjoy your new sauna, but always follow safety guidelines and consult with a professional if you have any doubts.

Additionally, it’s important to keep the sauna well-maintained and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the heating element and any other components.

For additional readings to broaden your knowledge, just read about custom built saunas.