Crafting a sauna that thrives through the years.
What’s the best material for your outdoor sauna?
One of the most important decisions when it building an outdoor sauna is choosing the right material. The type of material you choose will directly influence the sauna’s durability, performance, and overall experience. From the foundation to the wood for the sauna’s structure, every element needs careful consideration. In this post, we’ll explore the best materials for constructing your outdoor sauna.
Building stability from the ground up
Start with a foundation
Before choosing the walls and heater, it is important to decide on type of foundation you will lay.
Concrete Foundation: This type is foundation for your outdoor sauna is durable and stable. A concrete slab supports the sauna’s weight evenly and resists rot, but keep in mind that it’s expensive and difficult to remove once it was installed. Costs range from $5 to $10 per square foot.
Wood Decking Foundation: This option is flexible and cost-effective. Wood decking is temporary and easier to install, cost range is from $3 to $8 per square foot. However, it requires more maintenance, especially in humid areas.
Gravel Foundation: This type of foundation is simple and affordable. Gravel offers excellent drainage and it is easy to install, costing $1 to $3 per square foot. On the other side, it may lack the stability of concrete or wood.
Pier Foundation: This one will be Ideal for uneven terrain. This method of laying foundation involves placing poles in the ground and securing them with concrete. It’s labor-intensive and more costly, but beneficial in flood-prone areas.
Wood: The Heart of Your Sauna
The type of wood you are going to select for the sauna’s structure is arguably the most important decision you make when building a sauna. The right wood should be able to withstand high temperatures, resist moisture, and provide a nice environment.
Cedar
Cedar is the gold standard for sauna construction, and there is a good reason for it to be true. It’s highly resistant to warping under high heat and humidity, what makes this material ideal for the sauna environment. Cedar’s natural oils give it a pleasant aroma and provide natural resistance to bacteria and fungus. Cedar also has a low density, which means it heats up quickly and cools down rapidly, providing thermal comfort. Expect to pay around $2 to $3 per linear foot for quality cedar planks.
Basswood
Basswood is another excellent choice for your future sauna. This type of wood especially valuable for the people who’ve got allergies. It’s hypoallergenic, virtually odor-free, and doesn’t emit any toxins or resins when heated. Basswood is also resistant to warping and cracking under high heat. Despite all the positive aspects of the wood, there is one downside to consider: this type of wood lacks the natural aromatic qualities of cedar. It’s slightly more affordable than cedar, with prices ranging from $1.50 to $2.50 per linear foot.
Hemlock
This type of wood works well for the ones who are tight on budget, because Canadian hemlock offers a cost-effective solution. Hemlock is strong and durable material, though it’s less resistant to decay compared to cedar. Fresh hemlock can produce a slightly sour smell, but this usually fades over time. Hemlock is available for about $1 to $2 per linear foot, what makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious builders.
Poplar
Final thoughts
When selecting the right material for your sauna, always keep in mind that building an outdoor sauna is an investment in your health and well-being for the long run. From the foundation to the wood, each element has its unique role in the sauna’s performance and longevity. By carefully selecting durable, high-quality materials, you can create a relaxing, efficient, and long-lasting outdoor retreat.
If you plan to purchase an outdoor sauna in Minneapolis, feel free to visit our website and explore range of our outdoor custom saunas or contact us directly at BW Sauna Co.
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