Getting Started
A Beginners Guide to Finding The Perfect Sauna.
One of the most common questions we get is people simply not knowing where to start with their sauna search. There is a ton of information/opinions out there, so we have done our best to condense this into a digestible format for you.
If at any point you are feeling confused or overwhelmed, please give us a call at 516-234-5202. We would be happy to help!
Indoor vs Outdoor Saunas
Indoor Saunas
Pros
- Accessibility – An indoor sauna is easier to use consistently, especially during winter months or if you’re not comfortable going outdoors in cold weather.
- Space Efficiency – Converting an unused room or empty space is an ideal way to add a sauna to your home without the need to build or create a new area.
Cons
- Connection to Nature – Being immersed in nature is an important part of the sauna experience. Indoor saunas can feel more enclosed and less connected to the natural environment.
- Ventilation – Proper ventilation is essential for a safe and comfortable sauna experience, and achieving adequate airflow indoors can be more complex.
Outdoor Saunas
Pros
- Nature - The traditional Nordic Experience is being in nature with your sauna. Windows, lake/cold plunge, snow, etc. This experience makes you feel alive.
- Location - More options for people who are limited on indoor space
- Community - Outdoor saunas generally are better for hosting with friends/family, which is very traditional in nordic cultures.
Cons
- Heating - Outdoor units can take longer to heat up during the winter months. Primarily with sauna kits, as they are generally not insulated.
- Cost - Outdoor units can sometimes cost more as they require a foundation, longer electrical runs, roofing/siding, etc.
Prefab Kit vs Custom Sauna
Prefab Sauna Kits
Pros
- Price - Sauna Kits are going to be way more cost effective in comparison to custom (in the short term atleast)
- Convenience - Outdoor kits just need a foundation set, and install takes 1-2 days for most units. Indoor kits can be installed in a day and placed anywhere with enough space.
Cons
- Insulation - Most Kits are just interlocking staves that connect to one another like a lego set. Which can make outdoor kits take longer to heat up and maintain temperature in the winter months
- Longevity - In rougher climates, outdoor sauna kits are simply not going to last as long as a custom structure.
- Fixed Dimensions - For indoor sauna kits, the dimensions are fixed so you will need to work around various rooms/hallways in order to fit the unit.
Custom Saunas
Pros
- Quality - Custom saunas are built from scratch, and with that comes better quality.
- Longevity - Proper Custom Saunas are built with framing, insulation, vapor barriers, furring strips, and cladding. This means they not only perform better but will last for decades.
- Space/Aesthetics - Custom saunas can be conformed to almost any space, and you are not limited to fixed dimensions of a kit. They also look incredible when built properly.
Cons
- Cost - The only "potential con" for a custom sauna would be that it costs more up front. But if you plan to sauna for the rest of your life, then it may be less expensive to buy a custom sauna once than it would be to buy multiple kits throughout a lifetime.
- Planning - Custom saunas require a bit more planning/coordination, but we are here to take care of that for you.
Site Prep/Requirements
Indoor Requirements
- Waterproof Floor - A waterproof floor is required for all indoor saunas. This can be tile on the floor, preferably going up the walls 4-6" for custom units. A drain is preferred (if possible).
- Electrical - Most Residential Saunas will require a 240volt/single phase line to be run. Make sure you have at least 30-50amps available on your panel.
- Framing - Custom units that are not within an existing space will need to be framed using standard 16" OC Framing with PT Lumber on base.
Outdoor Requirements
- Foundation - Some type of level and structurally sound foundation is required such as a concrete pad, piers, gravel, etc. Drain is also advised, and can just go out below the unit.
- Electrical - Outdoor units will also require a 240volt/single phase line to be run for electric heaters. Advised to run additional 120 line for additional external/internal lighting. Most LED Strips can be connected to sauna heater control box and dont need an additional 120 line.
Installation Options
Types of Installations
When it comes to installations, we offer a few different options depending on your budget, location, and expertise.
- Dropship - We will ship a sauna kit directly to you, and you will be responsible to unload and install. Most kits can be installed with 2 people in 1-2 days. We will call you before delivery, and help you prep for install.
- White Glove Installation - If you are local to one of our install contractors, we will coordinate the delivery and install with you and the contractor. This is for kits or custom. Book a call below for this option.
- Builders/DIY - This is for you If you are a contractor, builder, designer, or architect who is interested in doing repeat saunas. Just sent us the room, we will design it, supply you with materials, and provide you installation guides from start to finish. In addition, we will be there to guide you along the way if any questions arise. Book a call below for this option.
Next Steps
Discovery Call
Now that we have went over some of the most common sauna questions, the next step would be to book a call with one of our team members so we can help move the process forward.
Please Fill Out the form below and we will reach out to you directly within 24 hours.