How to Build Saunas

Step-by-step instructions to help you build your very own sauna

Co-authored by Agustin Renoj

Last Updated: October 1, 2024 References

Saunas are small interior spaces that are heated and fed with water to create a hot, steamy environment where people can relax and ease muscle pain. Building personal saunas is relatively simple if a good location is selected and the adequate materials are purchased. Although styles and sizes of saunas vary, the basic principles of sauna construction are the same, and these steps will give you a general outline of how to build a home sauna.

Steps

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Clear a space that is removed from overhanging trees and running water.^{[1]
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Install any necessary pipes, wires, or gas lines.

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Dig a space for rocks if you are using lava rocks to heat your sauna. If using infrared heating, make sure you have enough power for the heating system.
- Personal saunas are generally heated in two ways: lava rocks, which are heated in a stove and over which water is poured to create steam, or infrared heating, which uses a heater inside the sauna.^{[2]
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- Lay a simple foundation for your sauna and build the inner frame.^{[3]
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Leave room for three ventilation points: one in the ceiling, one on the floor, and one above the heater. Add spaces for benches and windows as desired.^{[4]
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This goes over your heating system and will collect moisture.
You should be able to easily remove these and clean the tiles.
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Community Q&A

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Question

Can you describe a vapor lock in detail?

Community Answer

It is common for unknowing builders to use plastic vapor barriers for Sauna construction, as these products have been used in residential work for many years. These barriers do not hold up in Sauna conditions. Builders foil, typically foil with a kraft paper backing, is the appropriate material for vapor lock.

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What would be inside dimensions of the room (length, width and height)?

Community Answer

It could be 6' x 6' x 7' high, which is great for two on bunk platforms plus the heater. Don't forget to use a well sealed plastic vapor lock on the ceiling and walls unless you want to re-build a good portion of your house in a few years.

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What accidents can happen when one is using a sauna?

Community Answer

The heater can overheat and you can become too hot. You can also burn yourself on the lava rocks. It really hurts, so have a bucket of cool water nearby just in case.

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Tips

Personal saunas should always be made with wood, as wood can take on and release humidity and heat better than other materials. Cedar and white spruce are two popular woods for saunas, given that they tend not to expand or contract too dramatically.^{[6]
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Many countries require a building permit to make significant changes to the outside of your home and some will require additional permits for the plumbing and electric work, so be sure to check with your local authorities in advance.^{[7]
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If possible, use tongue and groove lumber for the outer wall. This eliminates the necessity of using nails, which will heat up when the sauna is in use and can cause injury.

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Warnings

Personal saunas requires constant upkeep. Remember to remove the floorboards to clean the ceramic tiles, clean the sauna heater, check the wood for any excessive bulging, and keep the ventilation points clear.^{[8]
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