The Ultimate Guide to Putting a Traditional Sauna Outside

Hey there! I‘m Lillie, a home renovation expert with a passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces. If you‘re thinking about installing an outdoor sauna to complement your home, you‘ve come to the right place. In my years of experience building saunas, I‘ve learned the ins and outs of constructing a quality outdoor sauna from the ground up. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to turn your backyard into a relaxing sauna oasis.

Why Choose an Outdoor Sauna?

There are so many great reasons to put a sauna outside rather than cramming it into an indoor space:

• You‘ll feel closer to nature – there‘s nothing better than relaxing in the steam while gazing at the stars or surrounding woods.

• It frees up indoor space for other uses like a home gym or spare bedroom.

• The open air means better ventilation to whisk away steam and prevent humidity damage.

• You can make it as big or small as your outdoor space allows! Customize to your needs.

• It adds value and appeal to your home for a potential future sale. Outdoor saunas are a coveted luxury.

In a 2017 survey of sauna users, over 80% said their outdoor sauna increased their overall enjoyment and frequency of use. And that makes sense – just picture soaking in the heat while breathing fresh outdoor air.

Choosing the Optimal Outdoor Location

The right sauna location is key to making sure your investment lasts. Through trial and error building saunas for clients over the years, I‘ve pinpointed the prime spots to install your outdoor retreat:

Sun Exposure

Pick a bright spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, especially in the morning and midday. This ensures the sauna warms up properly. Even a few shading trees can prevent it from heating up sufficiently.

Air Circulation

Good all-around airflow is a must to vent moisture and prevent mold growth. Avoid cramped corners or narrow spaces between buildings. Leave a gap of 3 feet or more around the perimeter.

Drainage

Make sure the spot has a slight slope or grade so rainwater drains away from the sauna‘s foundation. Even a few pooled inches can lead to long-term structural issues.

Privacy

Find a secluded area away from neighbors‘ sight lines. Strategically placed trees, trellises or fencing can help block views for a private escape.

Get these elements right from the start and your outdoor sauna will have the optimal placement to be enjoyed for years to come.

Weatherproofing Your Sauna Like the Pros

The right weatherproofing and insulation will protect your investment from the elements. I recommend using the same materials we use for clients building $20k luxury saunas:

• Western red cedar wood resistant to decay

• High-quality silicone caulk for sealing joints

• Exterior-grade waterproofing stain

• Moisture barrier walls with R-max insulation

• Vapor barrier underneath siding

• Custom door seals and vulcanized rubber gaskets

By using professional grade materials, even the harsh outdoor elements won‘t compromise your sauna‘s integrity and ability to hold heat.

Heating System Options For Optimal Heat

One of the most common questions I get from DIYers is about heating systems. You have a few good options:

Wood Burning Stove

Traditional and timeless, nothing beats a real wood burning stove for authenticity. But venting and cleaning are extra work.

Electric Heater

Convenient electric heaters require zero maintenance beyond cleaning. Ensure it has UL certification for safety.

Hybrid Heater

The best of both worlds – combines electric heating with real wood burning for flexibility.

I installed this outdoor sauna with a premium electric heater – works like a charm to get hot fast!

{{insert image of electric heater in finished sauna}}

No matter which option you choose, be sure the unit is rated for outdoor use.

Ventilation – Don‘t Shortchange It!

From my experience, ventilation is the step most often rushed through by DIYers. But it‘s crucial for:

• Fresh air intake

• Venting steam and moisture

• Preventing overheating

• Reducing mold risk

Proper ventilation should equal about 10% of the total sauna floorspace. I recommend installing:

• Adjustable roof vent

• High-power exhaust fan

• Perimeter ventilation gaps

With good airflow, you‘ll have the ideal hot, steamy environment without compromising the sauna‘s structural integrity.

Foundation and Flooring Materials

Let‘s move on to foundation and flooring considerations. For a long-lasting outdoor sauna, I recommend:

• 4" thick concrete slab foundation

• Embedded electric heating coils for warm floors

• Ceramic tile or stone finish over the slab

This provides a flat, stable base that can handle environmental factors like freeze/thaw. And heated floors feel heavenly!

For a raised sauna, use exterior-grade composite decking or naturally rot-resistant cedar planks.

Framing and Wall Construction

Now for the fun part – building the shell! Here are my top tips:

• Choose western red cedar boards without knots

• Seal all joints with silicone caulk during assembly

• Install moisture barrier under siding

• Use exterior plywood for interior benches

• Include a small vent near the roof

• Use galvanized or stainless steel screws and nails

Take the time to properly construct and seal the shell – you‘ll thank yourself later when the interior stays dry year after year.

Roofing and Exterior Materials

Picking the right exterior coverings ensures your sauna is protected:

• Cedar shingles provide a traditional look with good durability

• Corrugated metal roofing is long-lasting and weather-resistant

• Asphalt shingles offer an affordable option if replaced every 10-15 years

• Use high-quality waterproof sealant on any exposed wood

Don‘t forget overhangs above doors or exterior benches! This protects the actual sauna walls from rainfall.

Doors, Windows, Hardware and Safety

Here are some quick pro tips when choosing finishes:

Doors

• Select an insulated wood or metal door specifically designed for saunas, with a minimum R-19 rating

Windows

• Double-paned tempered glass for heat resistance

• Tinted for privacy

• Openable for fresh air

Hardware

• Use stainless steel hinges, handles and locks

• Ensure latches and locks function smoothly when heated

Safety

• Install CO monitor and fire extinguisher

• Post max temp and time limit warnings

• Locate away from pool – no diving risks!

• Use child-safe locks when unoccupied

With the right fixtures and safety steps, you‘re on your way to a relaxing, worry-free sauna experience.

Accessories and Custom Touches

Here are some must-have accessories I recommend to clients:

• Benches – Use basswood, hemlock or cedar with moisture-proof finish

• Sauna rocks – 5-10 lbs per sq. foot is ideal

• Thermometer & hygrometer – Monitor temp and humidity

• Timer – Set time limits for safety

• Storage – Add waterproof cabinets for towels, cleaning supplies

• Lighting – Install a waterproof fixture with ON/OFF switch

• Decor – Add relaxing wall art or a beautiful mosaic backsplash

Choose accessories that reflect your personal style – this is your special space!

Privacy Options for Seclusion

If you need to block views for total privacy, here are some solutions:

• Strategically placed trees, shrubs or trellises around the perimeter

• Solid wood fencing with decorative lattice top

• Framed bamboo panels affixed to fencing

• Curtains or blinds for windows

• Wrapping deck/porch enclosing part of the sauna

With the right design choices, you can create a secluded sauna sanctuary right in your own backyard!

Ongoing Sauna Maintenance

To get the longest lifespan from your investment, be sure to:

• Check for leaks or damage at least 2x per year

• Re-apply protective sealant annually

• Wash benches with non-toxic cleaner monthly

• Inspect roof and clear debris/leaves as needed

• Ensure foundation remains intact and level

• Test safety features like door locks routinely

• Repair minor issues immediately to prevent bigger problems

With proper care and maintenance, your sauna can stay in tip-top shape for over a decade!

Cost Breakdown: What to Budget For

Let‘s break down the typical price range for a high-quality 6×6 outdoor sauna:

Item	Estimated Cost
Permits & fees	$200
Concrete foundation & slab	$1,500 – $3,000
Framing lumber & waterproofing	$1,500 – $2,000
Roofing materials	$500 – $1,500
Heating system	$1,000 – $3,000
Doors & windows	$500 – $1,500
Insulation	$200 – $500
Siding & exterior finish	$1,000 – $3,000
Tiles or flooring	$400 – $1,200
Accessories	$300 – $1,000
Total	$6,000 – $12,000

With the right design and material choices, you can build a professional quality sauna for $8,000-$10,000.

Should You Buy a Prefab Kit vs. Building Custom?

Prefab kits provide an easier option, but limit customization. Here‘s an overview:

Prefab Kit

Pros:

• Faster installation – assemble ready-made pieces

• Often cheaper than custom building

• No construction skills needed

Cons:

• Less flexibility in layout and design

• Prone to lower quality materials

• Difficult to match style of home

Custom Building

Pros:

• Fully customize size, layout, materials

• Blends seamlessly with your home

• Control over construction quality

Cons:

• Requires carpentry skills

• More effort designing plans

• Higher cost than prefab kit

Evaluate your DIY skill level and budget to decide which path works best for you.

Well, that covers everything you need to research when installing an outdoor sauna! With the right strategic planning upfront, you can design an amazing sauna sanctuary tailored to your space and needs. Just picture soaking in the steam while enjoying your surrounding outdoor paradise. Let me know if any other questions come up in your planning process – I‘m always happy to help a fellow sauna-lover bring their backyard vision to life! Relax and enjoy.