Saunas are no longer a luxury reserved for spas or high-end hotels—they’re becoming an integral part of modern homes. But before you jump into a project, it’s important to understand that building a sauna is not just about wood and heaters. It’s about creating a safe, efficient, and long-lasting wellness space. Careful planning will ensure your investment pays off in comfort, health benefits, and even property value.
If you’re considering sauna manufacturing, here are ten essential factors to guide you through the process.
1. Define Your Purpose and Use Case
Every successful sauna project starts with clarity. Ask yourself: What do I want from this sauna?
- Private homes: Families may want a compact 2–4 person sauna for relaxation, stress relief, or recovery after workouts.
- Hospitality & commercial use: Hotels, gyms, and spas require higher durability, larger capacity, and more robust heating systems.
By defining the purpose, you’ll know whether to choose a simple prefabricated model or invest in a fully customized design. Skipping this step often leads to poor choices in size, materials, or heating systems.
2. Choose the Right Location
Where you place your sauna will shape both the experience and the cost.
- Indoor placement (bathrooms, basements, attics) allows easy access to plumbing and electricity, and it’s often more energy-efficient. However, ventilation and moisture control become critical.
- Outdoor placement (gardens, terraces, rooftops) offers privacy, beautiful views, and a closer connection to nature. These require weather-resistant materials, insulation, and foundations.
Think about convenience too: Will you step straight into a shower afterwards? Do you want privacy, or will it double as a social space? A sauna at the wrong spot in the house can quickly turn from dream to hassle.
3. Understand Local Codes and Safety Standards
This is one of the most overlooked aspects. Saunas operate at high temperatures and involve electricity, so safety codes matter.
- Doors: Must swing outward and should never lock.
- Clearances: Heaters require specific distances from benches, walls, and ceilings.
- Electrical setup: Most jurisdictions require dedicated circuits with RCD/GFCI protection.
Compliance isn’t just bureaucracy—it’s about protecting lives and property. Ignoring codes may lead to costly penalties or dangerous accidents later.
4. Select Durable and Safe Materials
The type of wood you choose affects comfort, durability, and aesthetics.
- Western Red Cedar: Naturally aromatic, resistant to decay, and dimensionally stable. Popular in North America.
- Aspen & Hemlock: Smooth, hypoallergenic, with no resin—great for sensitive users.
- Nordic Spruce or Pine: Light-colored and economical, though knots should be avoided in contact surfaces.
Benches, backrests, and headrests should be made from knot-free wood to prevent burns. Avoid paints or varnishes inside, as they can release harmful fumes under heat. Instead, use sauna-safe oils sparingly.
5. Plan for Proper Insulation and Vapor Barriers
A sauna’s performance depends heavily on insulation. Without it, energy is wasted and heating becomes inefficient.
- Insulation: Mineral wool or rigid foam boards are common. They must fit tightly to avoid air pockets.
- Vapor barrier: A foil-faced barrier reflects heat back inside and prevents moisture from penetrating walls. Seams must be taped with foil tape—small leaks can cause mold, rot, and energy loss.
Proper insulation also reduces operational costs and extends the lifespan of your sauna.
6. Size the Heater Correctly
The heater is the heart of the sauna. If it’s too small, you’ll never reach the desired temperature. If it’s too big, you’ll waste energy.
- Electric heaters: Compact, easy to use, and most common for residential projects.
- Wood-burning stoves: Offer authentic atmosphere but need chimney clearance and proper ventilation.
- Infrared panels: Use radiant heat, warm up quickly, and are energy efficient for small spaces.
General rule: 1 kW of heater power for every 1.2 cubic meters of space. Add extra capacity if your sauna has large glass panels since they lose heat faster.
7. Ventilation Is Non-Negotiable
A well-ventilated sauna ensures fresh oxygen and even heat distribution.
- Intake vent: Typically placed low, near the heater.
- Exhaust vent: Positioned high, diagonally opposite to intake.
- Adjustability: Allows you to fine-tune airflow depending on use.
Poor ventilation leads to stale air, uneven heating, and even material damage from trapped moisture. It also directly impacts comfort—nobody enjoys a suffocating sauna session.
8. Focus on Ergonomics and Comfort
A sauna should feel inviting, not cramped or awkward. Pay attention to the details that define the user experience.
- Bench height & depth: Upper bench 55–60 cm deep for lying down; lower bench 45–50 cm deep for sitting.
- Rounded edges: Prevent discomfort and accidents.
- Backrests and guardrails: Add safety and support.
- Headroom: Keep ceilings around 200–210 cm to balance heat efficiency and comfort.
Ergonomics often separates a “functional” sauna from one you truly enjoy spending time in.
9. Integrate Smart Controls and Technology
Today’s sauna manufacturing isn’t limited to wood and stones—technology plays a big role.
- Remote pre-heating: Start your sauna from an app before you get home.
- Energy monitoring: Track usage and optimize costs.
- Hybrid controls: Switch between infrared and traditional heating.
- Smart lighting & sound systems: Create customizable atmospheres.
These additions don’t just make your sauna modern—they make it more convenient and energy-efficient.
10. Budget, Timeline, and Long-Term Maintenance
A sauna is an investment, and like any investment, you need to plan ahead.
- Budget: A small prefabricated sauna may cost a few thousand euros, while a luxury custom design with glass walls, hybrid heating, and integrated lighting can reach tens of thousands.
- Timeline: Prefabricated units may take 2–5 days to install. Custom projects, with design and permitting, may stretch to several weeks.
- Maintenance: Expect to replace sauna stones every few years, lightly sand benches annually, and regularly check for loose fittings or moisture leaks.
A well-maintained sauna can last decades, but only if you respect the maintenance schedule.
1. How much space do I need for sauna manufacturing at home?
It depends on how many people will use the sauna. A compact 2-person unit can fit into as little as 1.5–2 square meters, while family or group saunas need 4–6 square meters or more. Careful planning of layout and bench levels ensures you get the most out of your space.
2. Which type of heater is best for sauna manufacturing?
It depends on your lifestyle. Electric heaters are the most convenient for residential use. Wood-burning stoves offer a traditional feel but require chimney installation and more space. Infrared heaters work well in small apartments and heat up quickly. Some modern projects even use hybrid systems.
3. How long does it take to build a sauna?
A prefabricated sauna cabin can be installed in just a few days, while a fully custom sauna may take several weeks. The timeline depends on design complexity, permitting, and delivery of materials.
4. What kind of maintenance does a sauna need?
Regular maintenance keeps your sauna safe and comfortable. Wipe benches weekly, air the sauna after each use, and inspect vents for blockages. Annually, sand benches lightly and check electrical components. Sauna stones should be replaced every 2–3 years if they crack or wear out.
5. Is sauna manufacturing expensive?
Costs vary widely. A small prefabricated model may start from a few thousand euros, while luxury custom builds with glass walls, premium wood, and smart controls can cost tens of thousands. The key is to set a realistic budget before starting.