What is a DIY sauna?
DIY means “do it yourself.” So, a DIY sauna is a sauna that you build by yourself. It is usually less expensive than purchasing a pre-made sauna because you only need to buy the materials and do not need to pay for someone else’s labor.
DIY saunas come with a sauna kit that includes all the necessary materials, such as lumber, glass, a sauna door, sauna benches, and heaters. You will only need basic carpentry skills to assemble the sauna kit.
Whether you want to build your own outdoor sauna, backyard sauna, or indoor sauna, DIY saunas are definitely a great option.
Can you build your own sauna?
Of course! With a little bit of effort, anyone can build their own sauna. It’s actually quite simple and straightforward. All you need is a sauna kit, some basic carpentry skills, and a little bit of time.
Building your own sauna is a DIY project that you can definitely do yourself. It can also become a fun family activity if you want to involve your kids, friends, or partner in the project.
How much does it cost to build a sauna by yourself?
The price of the home sauna kit is the main cost of this project. Sauna kits usually cost between $2,000 and $10,000. The price will depend on the size and features of the kit.
For example, a small 2-person sauna kit may cost around $2000, while a large 6-person sauna kit with all the bells and whistles may cost closer to $10,000.
It also depends on the
- Sauna heaters
- Sauna design eg. Barrel sauna, Infrared sauna, classic Finnish sauna
- The type of wood like western red cedar wood or aspen wood
- Is it an indoor sauna or outdoor sauna
- Other features that you want to include such as hot tub, lights, music system, etc.
The sauna building process becomes much easier and straightforward if you have all the materials and tools ready before you start.
Make sure to read the sauna kit’s instructions carefully before starting the project. This will help you understand the assembly process better and avoid any mistakes.
Benefits of building your own sauna
Building a sauna means having access to a custom sauna which means that you can design it according to your specific needs, wants, and preferences.
You get to choose the size, shape, location, type of wood, heater, and other features that you want. This way, you can create a sauna that is perfect for you and your family.
Building your own sauna also gives you a great sense of satisfaction and achievement. It is a fun and challenging project that you can do with your family or friends.
Once you have built your own sauna, you can enjoy all the benefits that come with it. Saunas are great for relaxation, detoxification, improved circulation, weight loss, and many other health benefits.
Which is better indoor sauna or outdoor sauna?
It depends on multiple things, such as your budget, space, needs, and preferences. If you have the budget and space for it, an indoor sauna is a great option.
Indoor saunas are more private and can be used all year round. They also add value to your home. In addition, if you are building an electric sauna it will be easier for you to access the electricity.
On the other hand, outdoor saunas are less expensive and can be a great option if you do not have the space or budget for an indoor sauna. They are also easy to build.
Plus, you get to enjoy the fresh air and nature while you are relaxing in your outdoor sauna.
It really depends on what you are looking for in a sauna. Both indoor and outdoor saunas have their own set of benefits and drawbacks.
Choose the option that is best for you and your family.
Different types of saunas
There are different types of saunas, but here are the four most popular types:
1. Wood burning sauna
If you are looking for a traditional sauna, then a wood-fired sauna is the way to go. In this type of sauna, rocks are heated on a wood-burning stove. The heat from the rocks warms up the air in the sauna, creating a hot and humid environment. You can easily build a wood-burning sauna with the help of a DIY sauna guide.
2. Electric sauna
Electric saunas are the most preferable type of saunas as they are easy to maintain and use. In this type of sauna, electric heaters are used to heat up the rocks. The heat from the rocks then warms up the air in the sauna, creating a hot and humid environment.
3. Infrared saunas
Next up we have infrared saunas. These types of saunas use infrared heaters to emit infrared waves. These waves then penetrate your skin and help in relaxing your muscles. It has been proved that infrared saunas are great for people suffering from arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness.
4. Steam sauna
Last but not least, we have steam saunas. As the name suggests, steam saunas use steam to create a hot and humid environment. In this type of sauna, water is boiled on a stove and the steam is then channeled into the sauna.
The steam creates a hot and humid environment, which is great for relaxation and detoxification.
Which sauna should you pick?
Now that you know the different types of saunas, it is time to choose the right one for you. The type of sauna that you should pick depends on multiple factors such as your budget, space, and needs.
If you have a tight budget, then an electric sauna or an infrared sauna might be the best option for you. These types of saunas are less expensive and easy to maintain.
If you have more space and a bigger budget, then a wood-burning DIY sauna or a steam sauna would be a great option. These types of saunas are more traditional and luxurious.
You can also go with more cheaper and portable options like a portable bike sauna or a portable infrared sauna.
How to build a homemade sauna?
So now that we know, the different types of saunas, let us take a look at how you can build your own sauna. Here are a few steps that you might want to follow:
1. Choose the right location
The first step is to choose the right location for your sauna. The location should be close to an electrical outlet and have enough space to accommodate the sauna.
If you are building an outdoor sauna, make sure not to place it under a tree because if it rains, the tree will drop leaves and branches into the sauna.
Also, make sure to pick a flat surface where you can build your sauna and that place should also have a good drainage system.
2. Gather the materials
Once you have chosen the location, it is time to gather the materials. The materials that you will need depend on the type of sauna that you are building.
For example, if you are building a wood-burning sauna, then you will need lumber, rocks, and a wood-burning stove.
On the other hand, if you are building an electric sauna, then you will need lumber, rocks, and electric heaters.
3. Build the sauna
Once you have gathered all the materials, it is time to start building the sauna. If you are not sure how to build a sauna, then you can always take help from a DIY sauna guide.
Building a sauna is not a difficult task and with the help of a guide, you can easily build one within a few hours.
4. Install the heater
The next step is to install the heater. If you are building a wood-burning sauna, then you will need to install a wood-burning stove.
On the other hand, if you are building an electric sauna, then you will need to install electric heaters. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully while installing the heater.
Heaters are the heart of any sauna so you have to make sure that they are installed correctly.
5. Install all the accessories and decorations
Once the sauna is built and the heater is installed, it is time to install all the accessories and decorations.
The accessories that you will need depend on the type of sauna that you are building.
For example, if you are building a wood-burning sauna, then you will need a bucket, a ladle, and some sauna stones.
On the other hand, if you are building an electric sauna, then you will need a bucket, a ladle, and some essential oils.
You can also add other decorations such as paintings, plants, and sculptures to make your sauna more personal and cozy.
6. Enjoy your sauna
Once you have installed all the accessories and decorations, it is time to enjoy your sauna. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully while using the sauna.
It’s time to invite your friends over and have a relaxing sauna session. Also, don’t forget to keep yourself hydrated!
Conclusion
DIY saunas are a great way to relax and enjoy some quality time with your friends and family. With a little effort, you can easily build your own sauna. Just follow the steps mentioned above and you will be able to build your own sauna within a few hours. We hope this article was helpful, thank you for reading!